Can Proposal Writers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, proposal writers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and proposal writing is a natural fit. You can write RFP responses, business proposals, and grant applications for clients worldwide from your Dutch home base.
Proposal writers work well under DAFT because the work is entirely digital. Your deliverables are documents, and your clients don't need you sitting in their office.
DAFT Eligibility for Proposal Writers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Proposal writing is a specialized writing service that fits naturally under DAFT. US government contractors and businesses still need strong proposals, regardless of where you're physically located.
Key points:
- Fully remote — all deliverables are digital documents
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Low to moderate (most clients will be US-based)
- Typical income range: €50,000–€95,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here, and it's ideal for solo writers.
Proposal writers have minimal overhead — you need a computer, reliable internet, and your writing skills. An eenmanszaak keeps things simple.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. Usually unnecessary for solo writers unless you're building a team.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Proposal Writing Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clarify your niche. For proposal writers, this typically includes:
- RFP/RFQ response writing and management
- Business proposal development
- Grant writing and application support
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: Tight deadlines across time zones Solution: Being 6–9 hours ahead of the US can actually work in your favor. You can write during your morning and have drafts ready before your US clients start their day. For crunch periods, plan overlap hours in your afternoon.
Challenge: Access to US government proposal databases Solution: SAM.gov, GovWin, and other federal procurement platforms are accessible from anywhere with internet. Your location doesn't affect your ability to research and respond to opportunities.
Challenge: Client concerns about data security Solution: Use secure file-sharing platforms, sign NDAs, and follow standard proposal management security practices. Being in the EU (with its strong data protection laws) can actually reassure clients about security.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €50,000–€95,000/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 Proposal Writer
International clients:
- Keep your existing US client relationships — proposal writing is relationship-driven
- Join APMP (Association of Proposal Management Professionals) to stay connected
- Target government contractors, tech companies, and consulting firms that constantly respond to RFPs
Dutch and European clients:
- EU institutions and organizations issue proposals in English
- International companies headquartered in the Netherlands need English-language proposal support
- Connect with local business networks
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients. Proposal writing relationships tend to be long-term — companies that trust you with their proposals keep coming back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I write proposals for US government contracts while living in the Netherlands? A: Yes. You're writing proposals, not performing the government contracts themselves. As long as your clients are comfortable with your location, there's no issue. Many proposal writers already work remotely.
Q: Is there demand for proposal writers in Europe? A: Growing demand, yes. EU-funded projects, international NGOs, and multinational companies all need English-language proposals. Your US grant writing experience is transferable.
Related Professions
If proposal writer 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.