Can Game Designers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, game designers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and game design is a strong fit. You can freelance as a game designer, run an indie studio, or consult for game companies from a Dutch base.
The Netherlands has a growing game industry. Utrecht, Amsterdam, and Hilversum are home to a number of game studios, and the Dutch Game Garden in Utrecht is one of Europe's leading game incubators. It is a smaller scene than the US, but it is active and well-supported.
DAFT Eligibility for Game Designers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Game design works under DAFT because you operate as a self-employed business owner. Whether you freelance for studios, consult on game mechanics, or develop your own games, you qualify.
Key points:
- Can work remotely for international studios or build your own games
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate
- Typical income range: €35,000-€80,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most game designers on DAFT start with an eenmanszaak. If you are freelancing or working on an indie title, this is the simplest and cheapest way to get started.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Worth considering if you plan to release commercial games, bring on collaborators, or seek investment.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Game Design Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For game designers, this typically includes:
- Game mechanics and systems design consulting
- Level design and narrative design for studios
- Game design documentation and prototyping
- Independent game development and publishing
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: Generating consistent income from game design Solution: Freelance game design consulting provides steadier income than indie development alone. Many game designers combine contract work for studios with their own projects. This gives you a reliable income stream while you build your own games on the side.
Challenge: Breaking into the Dutch game industry Solution: The Dutch game community is tight-knit and welcoming. Attend events like the Dutch Game Awards, the Game Developers Session in Utrecht, and meetups at the Dutch Game Garden. The community is small enough that showing up and being active will get you noticed.
Challenge: Funding indie game development Solution: The Netherlands offers several funding options for game developers. The Dutch Creative Industries Fund and the Netherlands Film Fund both have game-related grants. These are competitive but available to registered Dutch businesses.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €35,000-€80,000/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
- Digital products (games) sold to EU consumers: VAT based on customer location
- Small business exemption if under €20,000/year
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Game Designer
International clients:
- Maintain existing US studio relationships
- Use platforms like Upwork, ArtStation, or game industry job boards for contract work
- Network at international events like GDC (you can attend remotely or travel from the Netherlands)
Dutch clients:
- Connect with studios through the Dutch Game Garden and Control Magazine
- Attend local game jams — a great way to meet developers and show your skills
- The Netherlands has studios like Guerrilla Games, Triumph Studios, and many smaller indie teams
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. This provides income stability while you build your Dutch network. The Dutch game industry is growing, and your US experience and international connections are genuine assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I sell games on Steam or app stores while on DAFT? A: Yes. You can publish and sell games through any distribution platform. Revenue from game sales counts as business income. Be aware of VAT obligations on digital products sold to EU consumers.
Q: Is the Netherlands a good base for a game design career compared to other European countries? A: The Netherlands offers a good balance. The game industry is smaller than the UK or Germany, but the quality of life is high, the community is supportive, and government funding exists for game development. Its central European location also makes it easy to attend events in London, Berlin, or Paris.
Related Professions
If game designer 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.