Can Resume Writers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, resume writers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and resume writing is a natural fit. You can write resumes, CVs, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles for clients worldwide from your Dutch home base.
Resume writers work well under DAFT because the work is fully digital and client location doesn't matter. Whether your clients are job seekers in San Francisco or executives in Singapore, you deliver the same quality work from the Netherlands.
DAFT Eligibility for Resume Writers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Resume writing is a personal services business that fits well under DAFT. US job seekers will always need resumes, and your American market knowledge is your core strength.
Key points:
- Fully remote — all deliverables are digital documents
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Low (most clients will be US-based)
- 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's perfect for solo writers.
Resume writers have almost zero overhead — you need a computer and your writing skills. An eenmanszaak keeps fixed costs as low as possible.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. Rarely necessary for solo resume writers unless you're building a multi-writer agency.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Resume Writing Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clarify your service tiers. For resume writers, this typically includes:
- Resume and CV writing (entry-level through executive)
- LinkedIn profile optimization
- Cover letter writing and interview coaching
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: Lower price points compared to other consulting work Solution: Focus on executive resume services and career coaching packages, which command premium prices. A single executive resume package can run $1,000–$3,000. Volume matters less when your average project value is higher.
Challenge: Time zone differences for client consultations Solution: Schedule intake calls in your afternoon (US morning). Most resume writing work is asynchronous anyway — you interview the client once, then write the documents on your schedule.
Challenge: Demonstrating business viability for DAFT Solution: Document your existing client base, revenue history, and marketing pipeline. If you have a website with steady traffic and inquiries, include those metrics in your business plan. DAFT requires a €4,500 deposit, not a minimum income.
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 Resume Writer
International clients:
- Keep your existing US client base — this is your bread and butter
- Optimize your own website for resume writing keywords (practice what you preach)
- Use platforms like LinkedIn, Thumbtack, and industry-specific directories
Dutch and European clients:
- Help expats and international professionals with English-language CVs
- The Dutch CV format differs from US resumes — learn the differences and offer both
- Connect with expat communities who need help with English and Dutch CVs
Best practice: Start DAFT with a stable client pipeline. Resume writing can be seasonal (peaks in January and September), so having consistent lead generation is important.
Pro Tip: Living in the Netherlands gives you unique insight into European CV formats and hiring practices. Offer a "transatlantic package" for clients who need both US resumes and European CVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I write resumes for US clients while living in the Netherlands on DAFT? A: Yes. You invoice US clients as a Dutch freelancer. Your US market knowledge is your biggest asset — clients don't care where you're located, they care that you understand the US job market.
Q: Is resume writing enough to sustain a DAFT business? A: It can be, especially if you focus on executive-level services and add complementary offerings like LinkedIn optimization, interview coaching, and career strategy sessions. Many successful resume writers bundle these into premium packages worth $2,000+.
Q: Should I also learn to write Dutch-style CVs? A: It's worth learning the differences. Dutch CVs typically include a photo, date of birth, and a different format than US resumes. Offering both styles lets you serve the local expat market and adds a unique service.
Related Professions
If resume 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.