Can Privacy Consultants Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, privacy consultants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) lets US citizens start a business in the Netherlands, and privacy consulting is an especially strong fit. With GDPR at the center of European data regulation, being based in the EU gives you a real advantage.
Privacy consultants are well positioned for DAFT because the work is advisory, project-based, and in high demand across Europe. You can help companies with GDPR compliance, data protection impact assessments, and privacy program development.
DAFT Eligibility for Privacy Consultants
Status: DAFT Eligible
Privacy consulting is a knowledge-based service that works well under DAFT. Being based in the Netherlands — home to the Dutch Data Protection Authority — actually strengthens your credibility.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly — advisory and documentation-based work
- No special licensing required (though CIPP/E or CIPM certifications help)
- Dutch market demand: High (GDPR compliance is ongoing)
- Typical income range: €70,000–€130,000/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 inexpensive.
For privacy consultants, an eenmanszaak works well initially. Your costs are low — mostly software tools and professional development.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. Consider a BV if you're handling sensitive client data and want the liability protection, or once you're earning above €100,000/year.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Privacy Consultancy
Step 1: Define Your Services Be specific about your offerings. For privacy consultants, this typically includes:
- GDPR compliance assessments and gap analyses
- Data protection impact assessments (DPIAs)
- Privacy program development and policy writing
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: US companies questioning your EU-based status Solution: Being in the EU is actually a selling point for privacy work. You understand GDPR firsthand and can bridge the gap between US and EU privacy frameworks. Frame your location as an advantage.
Challenge: Keeping up with evolving regulations across jurisdictions Solution: Join the IAPP (International Association of Privacy Professionals) Netherlands chapter. Attend local privacy events — the Netherlands hosts several major data protection conferences each year.
Challenge: Building trust with European clients Solution: Pursue European-recognized certifications like CIPP/E. Your dual perspective on US privacy laws (CCPA, state laws) and GDPR makes you uniquely valuable to international companies.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €70,000–€130,000/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 Privacy Consultant
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships — US companies increasingly need GDPR help
- Target US companies expanding into Europe who need someone on the ground
- Join consulting networks and privacy-focused platforms
Dutch and European clients:
- The Netherlands is home to many international headquarters (think Booking.com, Philips, ASML)
- Network at privacy meetups and IAPP events in Amsterdam and The Hague
- Connect with local business communities for referrals
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients. Privacy consulting has strong recurring revenue — compliance isn't a one-time project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need GDPR certification to work as a privacy consultant in the Netherlands? A: No formal certification is legally required. However, credentials like CIPP/E, CIPM, or CIPT from the IAPP significantly boost your credibility, especially with European clients.
Q: Can I serve as a Data Protection Officer (DPO) for companies while on DAFT? A: Yes. Many companies outsource their DPO function to external consultants. This is a great recurring revenue model and works well under DAFT.
Q: Is there really enough demand for privacy consulting? A: Absolutely. GDPR enforcement has only increased over time, and new regulations like the AI Act create additional demand. Companies of all sizes need privacy help.
Related Professions
If privacy consultant isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
- Can Cybersecurity Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Compliance Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can IT Consultant 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.