Can Freelance Writers Use the DAFT Visa? Here's How
Yes, writers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) lets US citizens start a business in the Netherlands, and freelance writing is one of the most portable professions you can bring along. All you need is a laptop and ideas.
Writing is inherently location-independent. Whether you write blog posts, white papers, brand copy, or books, the work travels with you. The Netherlands offers a high quality of life and a thriving creative community — not a bad place to find inspiration.
DAFT Eligibility for Writers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Freelance writing requires no licensing in the Netherlands and is fully remote. You can write for clients in the US, Europe, or anywhere else.
Key points:
- Fully remote — write from anywhere
- No Dutch licensing or certification required
- Dutch market demand: Moderate (high for English-language content)
- Typical income range: €30,000-€70,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
For writers, the eenmanszaak is the natural choice. Low overhead, simple bookkeeping, and you can focus on the writing instead of admin.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Rarely necessary for solo writers unless your income is very high or you want to publish under a company name.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Writing Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For writers, this typically includes:
- Blog posts and articles
- White papers and case studies
- Website copy and landing pages
- Ghostwriting (books, thought leadership, speeches)
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 rates compared to technical professions Solution: Specialize. Writers who focus on a niche — SaaS, finance, healthcare, legal — command significantly higher rates than generalists. Your US market knowledge and native English skills are valuable in the Netherlands.
Challenge: Proving business viability for DAFT Solution: Show a clear business plan with existing clients or a strong pipeline. DAFT requires a €4,500 deposit, not a specific income level. Having contracts or letters of intent helps your application.
Challenge: Time zone differences with US clients Solution: Writing is almost entirely asynchronous. You write, you deliver, they review. Live calls can happen in the morning (Netherlands time) to catch US East Coast business hours.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €30,000-€70,000/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 Writer
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Use platforms like Contently, Skyword, or LinkedIn for new leads
- Build a portfolio website showcasing your best work
- Specialize in a niche to stand out and command higher rates
Dutch clients:
- Dutch companies frequently need native English writers for international content
- The Netherlands is home to many multinational HQs needing English-language communications
- Network with content creators and marketing consultants in Amsterdam and Rotterdam
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. This provides income stability while you build your Dutch network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of writer works best for DAFT? A: Any kind. Whether you're a copywriter, technical writer, content writer, or book author, DAFT doesn't distinguish. You're registering a writing business.
Q: Can I write books and sell them while on DAFT? A: Yes. You can earn income from book royalties, self-publishing, and freelance writing simultaneously. Your KVK registration should cover all your planned revenue streams.
Q: Is there demand for English-language writers in the Netherlands? A: Absolutely. English is the business language for many Dutch companies, especially in tech, finance, and international trade. Being a native English speaker in the Netherlands is a genuine advantage.
Related Professions
If 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.