Can Therapists Use DAFT? Complex - Research Required
It's complicated for therapists. Therapists can use DAFT, but practicing therapy in the Netherlands may require Dutch licensure depending on your specialty.
Therapists may need to figure out licensing requirements but can potentially practice with international clients.
DAFT Eligibility for Therapists
Status: Complex - Research Required
Therapists can use DAFT, but practicing therapy in the Netherlands may require Dutch licensure depending on your specialty.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly - can serve clients worldwide
- Licensing may be required (see below)
- Dutch market demand: Medium
- 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.
Most therapists 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 Therapist Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For therapists, 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: Dutch licensing requirements Solution: Focus on coaching (unregulated) rather than therapy, or serve US clients via telehealth.
Challenge: Insurance billing Solution: Consider private pay clients or specialize in areas not requiring Dutch insurance.
Licensing Considerations
Psychotherapy in the Netherlands requires BIG registration. Consider coaching or international telehealth instead.
Options if licensing is complex:
- Focus on international clients (licensing often doesn't apply)
- Pivot to adjacent, unregulated services
- Partner with licensed Dutch professionals
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 Therapist
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 US therapists practice in the Netherlands? A: It's complicated. Dutch healthcare professions require BIG registration. Many therapists pivot to coaching (unregulated) or continue serving US clients via telehealth.
Related Professions
If therapist 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.