Can Full-Stack Developers Use the DAFT Visa? Here's How
Yes, full-stack developers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and full-stack development is one of the best professions for it. You can build and ship products for clients anywhere in the world.
Full-stack developers are in consistently high demand in the Netherlands. The Dutch tech ecosystem — from Amsterdam's startup scene to Eindhoven's tech corridor — needs developers who can work across the entire stack. Your versatility is a real selling point.
DAFT Eligibility for Full-Stack Developers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Full-stack development is a natural fit for DAFT. The work is remote-friendly, project-based, and well-compensated. You operate as a freelance developer invoicing clients directly.
Key points:
- Fully remote — can serve clients worldwide
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Very High
- Typical income range: €60,000-€120,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most full-stack developers on DAFT start with an eenmanszaak. It is the fastest way to get registered and start billing clients.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Some Dutch enterprise clients prefer working with freelancers who have a BV, especially for longer contracts.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Full-Stack Development Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For full-stack developers, this typically includes:
- Web application development (frontend and backend)
- API design and development
- Database architecture and management
- Technical consulting and code audits
Step 2: KVK Registration Register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. You'll need:
- Valid residence permit (or proof of DAFT application)
- Proof of address in the Netherlands
- Description of your business activities
- €75 registration fee
Step 3: Tax Registration After KVK registration, you'll automatically be registered with the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority) for:
- Income tax
- VAT (BTW) - you may be exempt if under €20,000/year
Common Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Avoiding "false self-employment" classification Solution: Dutch tax authorities look closely at freelancers who work for a single client long-term. Protect yourself by having multiple clients, using project-based contracts, and maintaining a modelovereenkomst (model agreement). Don't integrate into a client's team as if you were an employee.
Challenge: Choosing the right tech stack for the Dutch market Solution: The Dutch tech market heavily uses Java, Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, and .NET. React and Node.js are particularly in demand. If your stack aligns, you'll have no trouble finding local work. If it doesn't, US clients won't care about the Dutch market anyway.
Challenge: Client acquisition during the transition period Solution: Line up at least one ongoing client before you move. The gap between arriving and getting fully set up (BSN, bank account, KVK) can take 4-6 weeks. Having income during this period reduces stress significantly.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €60,000-€120,000/year
Tax obligations:
- Dutch income tax (progressive rates, 36-49%)
- US tax filing required (as a US citizen)
- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion may apply
- Tax treaty between US and Netherlands prevents double taxation
VAT (BTW):
- Services to US/non-EU clients: 0% (reverse charge)
- Services to Dutch clients: 21% VAT
- Small business exemption if under €20,000/year
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Full-Stack Developer
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Use platforms like Toptal, Arc, and Gun.io for vetted freelance work
- Contribute to open source — it's a surprisingly effective client acquisition channel
Dutch clients:
- Register on Freelance.nl, Headfirst, and Huxley for Dutch contracts
- Attend meetups in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht — the Dutch tech community is active and welcoming
- The Netherlands has many international companies (Booking.com, Adyen, TomTom) that work in English and hire freelancers
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. This provides income stability while you build your Dutch network. Full-stack developers are in high enough demand that finding Dutch clients is realistic within your first few months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work for US companies as a full-stack developer on DAFT? A: Yes. You invoice them as a Dutch business. This is the most common arrangement for developers on DAFT. The key requirement is that you are a freelancer, not an employee.
Q: Should I register as a "full-stack developer" or something broader? A: Register with a broad description at KVK — something like "software development, IT consulting, and web application development." This covers full-stack work and gives you flexibility to take on adjacent projects without updating your registration.
Q: How does the Dutch freelance developer market compare to the US? A: Hourly rates in the Netherlands typically range from €70-€110/hour for experienced full-stack developers. That is competitive with many US markets. The Dutch market also tends to offer longer contracts (3-12 months) compared to the project-based work more common in the US.
Related Professions
If full-stack developer isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
Next Steps
- Evaluate your situation - Do you have clients? Income? A viable business plan?
- Read the complete DAFT guide - Understand all requirements
- Prepare your documents - Start the apostille process early
- Plan your timeline - Most people need 3-6 months to prepare
Digital Guide — $99
We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.