Can Sales Trainers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, sales trainers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and sales training is a solid fit. You can deliver workshops, coaching, and training programs to companies across the US and Europe.
Sales training works well under DAFT because you're running your own business delivering a knowledge-based service. Whether you're teaching cold calling frameworks, negotiation tactics, or helping teams adopt new sales methodologies, it all qualifies.
DAFT Eligibility for Sales Trainers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Sales training is well-suited for DAFT. You're delivering educational and advisory services as an independent business owner.
Key points:
- Remote and in-person delivery options
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate
- Typical income range: €45,000-€100,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most sales trainers on DAFT choose the Eenmanszaak. It's the fastest way to get operational and start billing clients.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Worth considering if you plan to hire other trainers or build a training company.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Sales Training Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For sales trainers, this typically includes:
- Live and virtual sales training workshops
- One-on-one sales coaching for reps and managers
- Custom curriculum development for sales teams
- Ongoing training retainers with quarterly sessions
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: Delivering in-person training across time zones Solution: Build a mix of live virtual sessions and self-paced content. Record workshops so teams can revisit material. For US clients, schedule sessions during overlapping hours — mornings their time work well from the Netherlands.
Challenge: Competing with local trainers in the Netherlands Solution: Your American sales perspective is actually a differentiator. Many European companies want to adopt US-style sales methods like MEDDIC, Sandler, or Challenger. Lean into that expertise.
Challenge: VAT for international clients Solution: B2B services to non-EU clients are zero-rated for Dutch VAT. Keep good records.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €45,000-€100,000/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 Sales Trainer
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Partner with sales enablement platforms that need trainers
- Create content on LinkedIn to demonstrate your methodology
- Offer pilot workshops to build case studies
Dutch clients:
- The Netherlands has a growing SaaS sector hungry for sales training
- Dutch companies expanding internationally need training on US market selling
- Connect with HR and L&D departments at Dutch firms
- Attend industry events in Amsterdam and Rotterdam
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. This provides income stability while you build your Dutch network. Consider packaging your training into productized offerings with clear pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work for US companies as a sales trainer on DAFT? A: Yes, you can work as an independent contractor for US companies. You bill them as a Dutch business, which is a common setup for DAFT sales trainers.
Q: Do I need Dutch clients to qualify for DAFT as a sales trainer? A: No, DAFT does not require Dutch clients. Many sales trainers on DAFT work primarily with US or international clients.
Q: Can I sell online courses alongside live training? A: Yes. Digital products like recorded courses, workbooks, and templates are great additions to your business. They create passive income alongside your live training work.
Related Professions
If sales trainer 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.