Can Pricing Consultants Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, pricing consultants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) lets US citizens start a business in the Netherlands, and pricing consultancy fits perfectly. You can advise clients on pricing strategy, revenue optimization, and market positioning from anywhere in the Netherlands.
Pricing consultants are well suited for DAFT because the work is inherently advisory and project-based. Most of your deliverables are digital, making it easy to serve clients across time zones.
DAFT Eligibility for Pricing Consultants
Status: DAFT Eligible
Pricing consulting is a knowledge-based service that works well under DAFT. You can serve US, European, and international clients from your Dutch business.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly — deliver strategy documents and analyses digitally
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate to high (especially for SaaS and e-commerce pricing)
- Typical income range: €60,000–€110,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here because the setup is fast and the accounting requirements are minimal.
As a pricing consultant, your overhead is low — you mostly need a laptop and your knowledge. An eenmanszaak keeps things simple.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. Worth considering once revenue exceeds €100,000/year or if you want to bring on subcontractors.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Pricing Consultancy
Step 1: Define Your Services Be specific about what you offer. For pricing consultants, this typically includes:
- Pricing strategy development and audits
- Revenue optimization and margin analysis
- Competitive pricing research and market positioning
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: Proving your business is viable without a physical product Solution: Prepare a clear business plan with existing client contracts, a portfolio of past work, and projected revenue. DAFT requires a €4,500 deposit, not proof of specific income.
Challenge: Time zone differences with US clients Solution: Most pricing work is asynchronous — strategy documents, pricing models, and reports don't require constant real-time meetings. Schedule key calls in the afternoon (Netherlands time) to overlap with US mornings.
Challenge: Explaining your business to KVK Solution: Use straightforward language: "business advisory services" or "management consulting — pricing strategy." KVK staff are used to registering consultants.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €60,000–€110,000/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 Pricing Consultant
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships — this is the easiest path
- Position yourself on platforms like Toptal or specialized consulting networks
- SaaS companies and e-commerce businesses are always looking for pricing help
Dutch and European clients:
- The Netherlands has a strong startup and scale-up ecosystem, particularly in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven
- Network at business events and industry meetups
- Join professional associations for management consultants
Best practice: Start DAFT with at least one existing client. This gives you income stability while you build your European network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work for US companies as a pricing consultant on DAFT? A: Yes. You invoice US companies as a Dutch freelancer. This is a common setup, and most DAFT consultants work primarily with US-based clients.
Q: Do I need a specific degree or certification for pricing consulting in the Netherlands? A: No. There are no licensing requirements for business consultants in the Netherlands. Your experience and track record are what matter.
Q: Is there demand for pricing consultants in Europe? A: Yes, especially in SaaS, e-commerce, and retail. The Netherlands is a hub for international business, so you'll find plenty of opportunity once established.
Related Professions
If pricing consultant isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
- Can Business Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Management Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Financial Advisor Use 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.