Can Product Managers Use DAFT? Conditionally Eligible
Yes, product managers can use DAFT with proper structuring. Product management can work under DAFT when structured as consulting. You advise companies on product strategy rather than being employed.
Product managers can use DAFT by positioning themselves as product consultants or fractional product leaders.
DAFT Eligibility for Product Managers
Status: Conditionally Eligible
Product management can work under DAFT when structured as consulting. You advise companies on product strategy rather than being employed.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly - can serve clients worldwide
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: High
- Typical income range: €70,000-€140,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most product managers on DAFT start with this structure. It's simple to set up and has minimal requirements.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Product Manager Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For product managers, this typically includes:
- Consulting and advisory work
- Project-based deliverables
- Ongoing retainer arrangements
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: Structuring work as consulting vs employment Solution: Focus on advisory roles, fractional PM work, or product strategy consulting rather than full-time embedded roles.
Challenge: Time zone challenges for meetings Solution: Work with companies that have European presence or are flexible with async communication.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €70,000-€140,000/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 Product Manager
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Use platforms like Upwork, Toptal, or industry-specific networks
- B2B services to US clients are often easiest to maintain
Dutch clients:
- Network at industry events and meetups
- Join professional associations
- Build local portfolio and testimonials
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. This provides income stability while you build your Dutch network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can product managers use DAFT? A: Yes, but you need to structure your work as consulting. Instead of being a full-time PM at one company, you offer product strategy consulting, fractional PM services, or advisory work.
Related Professions
If product manager 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.