Can Training Consultants Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, training consultants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) lets US citizens start a business in the Netherlands, and training consulting works well as a freelance business. You can design and deliver training programs for companies worldwide.
Corporate training is a growing field in Europe, and the Netherlands is full of international companies that conduct business in English. Your experience with US corporate culture and training methodologies translates well to the European market.
DAFT Eligibility for Training Consultants
Status: DAFT Eligible
Training consulting fits DAFT because you're providing a professional service — designing curricula, facilitating workshops, and building learning programs for organizations.
Key points:
- Mix of remote and on-site work — virtual training has become the norm, with optional in-person delivery
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate to High — international companies invest heavily in employee development
- Typical income range: €45,000-€90,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
For training consultants, an eenmanszaak keeps things simple. Your main costs are your own time and whatever tools or platforms you use to deliver training.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Consider this if you plan to hire other trainers or take on large enterprise contracts.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Training Consulting Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For training consultants, this typically includes:
- Leadership and management development programs
- Technical skills training and workshops
- Change management and organizational development training
- Custom e-learning content creation
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: Adapting training content for European audiences Solution: US-style training tends to be more energetic and interactive, which European companies often appreciate. Adjust cultural references and examples, but keep your delivery style. Many executive coaches on DAFT find that their American approach is actually a selling point.
Challenge: Competing with local training providers Solution: Differentiate by specializing. Focus on areas where US expertise is valued — tech industry training, American management methodologies, cross-cultural communication, or English-language delivery for international teams.
Challenge: Balancing virtual and in-person delivery Solution: Start with virtual training to keep costs low and reach more clients. Add in-person workshops as you build your local reputation. The Netherlands' central European location makes it easy to deliver training across the continent.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €45,000-€90,000/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 Training Consultant
International clients:
- US companies with European offices need consistent training across locations
- Maintain existing US client relationships for virtual delivery
- Partner with global training companies as a local delivery partner
Dutch clients:
- International companies in the Netherlands train employees in English
- Network at HR and L&D events in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht
- Join professional associations like instructional design and corporate learning communities
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. Training engagements can be seasonal — many companies plan training budgets annually and schedule most programs in Q1 and Q3. Plan your pipeline accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I deliver training for US companies while living in the Netherlands? A: Yes. Virtual training delivery is common and fully supported under DAFT. You bill your US clients from your Dutch business. Time zone overlap (6-9 hours behind) works well for afternoon sessions in the US.
Q: Do I need teaching certifications to train in the Netherlands? A: No. Corporate training doesn't require formal teaching certifications in the Netherlands. Your professional experience and subject matter knowledge are what clients are paying for. Certifications like ATD, SHRM, or industry-specific credentials can help you stand out.
Related Professions
If training consultant isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
- Can Executive Coach Use DAFT?
- Can Instructional Designer Use DAFT?
- Can Curriculum Developer Use 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.