Can Journalists Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, journalists can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) works well for freelance journalists who want to base themselves in the Netherlands. You can write for US publications, European outlets, or any client worldwide.
The Netherlands is a great base for journalists. It's centrally located in Europe, has strong press freedom protections, and gives you easy access to EU institutions, international organizations, and stories across the continent.
DAFT Eligibility for Journalists
Status: DAFT Eligible
Freelance journalism is a natural fit for DAFT. You write, report, and file stories as an independent business. Your clients are publications and media outlets, not employers.
Key points:
- Location-flexible — file stories from anywhere
- No special Dutch press license required
- Dutch market demand: Moderate (especially for English-language reporting)
- 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 freelance journalists on DAFT use this structure. It mirrors how freelance journalism works in the US — you invoice publications for your work.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Generally unnecessary for freelance journalists unless you're also running a media production company.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Journalism Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For journalists, this typically includes:
- Freelance reporting and feature writing
- Investigative journalism projects
- Content and editorial consulting
- Newsletter or independent media 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: Inconsistent freelance income Solution: Diversify your revenue. Combine publication work with content consulting, newsletter subscriptions (Substack or similar), or corporate writing. Having multiple income streams makes your DAFT application stronger and your life less stressful.
Challenge: Maintaining US publication relationships from Europe Solution: The time zone difference actually works well. You write in the morning, have calls with US editors in the afternoon/evening. Being in Europe also makes you valuable for covering stories that US-based reporters can't easily reach.
Challenge: Getting a Dutch press card Solution: Apply for a press card through the Nederlandse Vereniging van Journalisten (NVJ). Having published work and a KVK registration helps your application. The press card gives you access to press events and official briefings.
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
- Small business exemption if under €20,000/year
Pro Tip: Journalism can qualify for reduced VAT rates in some EU countries, but in the Netherlands, standard rates apply to freelance writing services. Talk to a Dutch accountant about your specific situation.
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Journalist
International clients:
- Maintain existing US publication relationships
- Pitch European stories to US outlets — they value on-the-ground reporting
- Build relationships with wire services and international media
Dutch and European clients:
- English-language outlets in the Netherlands include DutchNews.nl and others
- EU-focused publications like Politico Europe are based nearby
- Corporate communications and content marketing provide steady supplemental income
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing editorial relationships. Having committed assignments or regular columns makes your business plan much more convincing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I write for US newspapers and magazines while on DAFT? A: Yes. You invoice US publications as a Dutch business. This is the most common setup for freelance journalists on DAFT. Many US outlets are happy to have a Europe-based contributor.
Q: Does the Netherlands have press freedom protections? A: Yes. The Netherlands consistently ranks among the top countries for press freedom. Dutch law provides strong protections for journalists, including source protection.
Related Professions
If journalist isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
Next Steps
- Evaluate your situation - Do you have publications? 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.