Can PR Consultants Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, PR consultants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and public relations consulting is a solid fit. You can manage media relations, craft communications strategies, and handle reputation management for clients worldwide from your Dutch base.
PR work is increasingly digital — pitching journalists, writing press releases, managing social media crises, and developing communications strategies all happen online. That makes it highly portable and well-suited for DAFT.
DAFT Eligibility for PR Consultants
Status: DAFT Eligible
PR consulting is a service-based business with no licensing requirements in the Netherlands. You're selling your communications knowledge and media relationships, which crosses borders easily.
Key points:
- Remote-friendly — pitch, write, and strategize from anywhere
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate to High
- Typical income range: €50,000–€100,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
The simplest structure. Most DAFT applicants start here. You're personally liable, but setup is fast and bookkeeping is straightforward.
Most freelance PR consultants on DAFT choose this route. It lets you focus on client work without corporate complexity.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. Worth considering if you're taking on large corporate retainers or building a PR agency, but most solo consultants don't need this initially.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your PR Consulting Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Be specific about your niche. For PR consultants, this typically includes:
- Media relations and journalist outreach
- Communications strategy and messaging
- Crisis communications and reputation management
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: Maintaining US media relationships from Europe Solution: Your US media contacts don't disappear when you move. Email, video calls, and social media keep you connected. The time difference can actually work in your favor — you can prep materials and pitches in the morning, then connect with US journalists when they start their day. Plan occasional US trips to maintain face-to-face relationships with key editors and reporters.
Challenge: Building a Dutch and European media network Solution: The Dutch media landscape is smaller and more accessible than the US market. Start by following key Dutch journalists and outlets in your sectors. Attend press events and industry gatherings in Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. English-language outlets like DutchNews.nl and international desks at Dutch publications are good starting points.
Challenge: Understanding EU communications regulations Solution: EU rules around advertising disclosures, influencer marketing, and corporate communications differ from US standards. Learn the basics — it expands your value proposition. You can position yourself as someone who understands both US and European communications norms.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €50,000–€100,000/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 PR Consultant
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships — PR retainers are often long-term
- Position yourself as a US-European PR bridge for companies expanding internationally
- Use your US media network as a differentiator for European clients wanting US coverage
Dutch clients:
- Many Dutch and European companies need US market PR support
- Network at communications and marketing events in Amsterdam and The Hague
- Join Dutch PR and communications associations like Logeion
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. PR work is relationship-based, and your existing retainers provide income stability while you build your European network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I manage US PR campaigns while living in the Netherlands? A: Yes. Most PR work — pitching, writing, strategy, media monitoring — is done digitally. You can manage US media relations from the Netherlands. For events or press conferences, you can either travel or partner with a US-based associate for in-person coverage.
Q: Will US journalists care that I'm based in Europe? A: Most won't. Journalists care about good story angles and reliable sources, not where their PR contacts live. Many PR professionals already work remotely across the US. Be upfront about your location and responsive during US business hours, and it's rarely an issue.
Q: Can I handle both US and European PR for clients? A: Yes, and this is a strong positioning strategy. Companies expanding between the US and Europe value a consultant who understands both media landscapes. Your dual-market experience becomes a real differentiator.
Related Professions
If PR consultant isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
- Can Communications Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Marketing Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Brand Strategist Use DAFT?
Next Steps
- Evaluate your situation — Do you have clients? Income? A viable business plan?
- Read the DAFT requirements — 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.