Can Print Designers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, print designers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and print design is a great fit. You can create packaging, editorial layouts, branding materials, and more for clients anywhere in the world.
Print designers work well under DAFT because design deliverables are digital files — even when the final product is physical. You can run your business from Utrecht or The Hague just as easily as from New York.
DAFT Eligibility for Print Designers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Print design is a creative service that fits naturally under DAFT. You can work with publishers, brands, agencies, and direct clients from your Dutch business.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly — deliver design files digitally
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate (strong design culture in the Netherlands)
- Typical income range: €40,000–€80,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here, and it works well for solo designers.
Print designers typically have low overhead — your main costs are software subscriptions and possibly print samples. An eenmanszaak keeps administrative burden minimal.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. Consider this if you plan to hire employees or take on large contracts with liability concerns.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Print Design Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Be clear about your specialization. For print designers, this typically includes:
- Packaging design and production-ready artwork
- Editorial and publication layout
- Brand identity and collateral design
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: Access to print vendors and production houses Solution: The Netherlands has excellent print production facilities. Dutch printing standards are high, and many vendors work in English. You'll actually have access to some of Europe's best print houses.
Challenge: Shipping physical samples to international clients Solution: Use Dutch print vendors to ship directly to clients. PostNL and DHL have strong international shipping from the Netherlands.
Challenge: Portfolio differences between US and Dutch markets Solution: European design tends to favor clean, minimal aesthetics — which aligns well with print design. Adapt your portfolio to highlight work that resonates with European sensibilities while keeping your US clients happy.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €40,000–€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
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Print Designer
International clients:
- Keep your existing US client relationships — this is your strongest starting point
- Use platforms like Dribbble, Behance, and design-specific job boards
- Reach out to publishers and agencies who need freelance print designers
Dutch and European clients:
- The Netherlands has a rich design heritage — Dutch design is respected worldwide
- Attend design events in Amsterdam, Eindhoven (home of Dutch Design Week), and Rotterdam
- Connect with local expat communities to find referrals
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. Build your European network over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work for US publishers and agencies on DAFT? A: Yes. You invoice them as a Dutch freelancer. Many print designers on DAFT continue working with their US clients without interruption.
Q: Is the Dutch design market competitive for print designers? A: The Netherlands has a strong design culture, so standards are high. But that also means there's genuine appreciation for good print work. Your US perspective can be an asset — many Dutch companies want designers who understand the American market.
Related Professions
If print 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.