Can Yoga Instructors Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, yoga instructors can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and yoga instruction works well under this treaty. You can teach online, in-person, or a mix of both.
The Netherlands has a strong wellness culture, and yoga is popular across the country. The Dutch appreciate health and fitness, making it a welcoming market for qualified instructors.
DAFT Eligibility for Yoga Instructors
Status: DAFT Eligible
Yoga instruction is a legitimate freelance business for DAFT purposes. While it can involve in-person work (unlike many remote-only professions), it's still a strong fit.
Key points:
- Can be remote (online classes) or in-person or hybrid
- No Dutch licensing required, though certifications help credibility
- Dutch market demand: Moderate to High
- Typical income range: €25,000-€55,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
For yoga instructors, the eenmanszaak is the standard choice. It lets you start teaching quickly with minimal admin overhead.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Could be worth considering if you plan to open a studio or hire other instructors down the line.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Yoga Instruction Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For yoga instructors, this typically includes:
- Group classes (in-person at studios or outdoor spaces)
- Private one-on-one sessions
- Online classes and courses (live or recorded)
- Corporate wellness programs and workshops
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
Pro Tip: Yoga instruction may qualify for the reduced 9% VAT rate in the Netherlands as a sport-related service, rather than the standard 21%. Check with a Dutch tax advisor to confirm your specific situation.
Common Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Building a local client base from scratch Solution: The Dutch yoga community is active and welcoming. Start by renting studio time at established yoga studios (many rent space to freelance teachers). Join local wellness communities in your city. Offer intro rates to build word of mouth.
Challenge: Language barrier for in-person classes Solution: English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht. Many yoga studios already offer English-language classes for the large expat community.
Challenge: Lower per-class income compared to US rates Solution: Diversify your income streams. Combine in-person group classes with online offerings, private sessions, corporate wellness contracts, and retreats. Online classes let you serve US clients at US pricing while living on Dutch costs.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €25,000-€55,000/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: 9% or 21% VAT (depending on classification)
- Small business exemption if under €20,000/year
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Yoga Instructor
International clients:
- Offer online classes to maintain US student base
- Build a digital course or membership site for passive income
- Host yoga retreats that attract international participants
Dutch clients:
- Rent teaching time at local yoga studios
- Partner with gyms, fitness coaches, and wellness centers
- Target the expat community — many English-speaking residents seek English-language yoga classes
- Offer corporate wellness programs to Dutch companies
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. Online classes give you income from day one while you build your local presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a specific yoga certification to teach in the Netherlands? A: There's no legal requirement for a specific certification, but having a recognized certification (200-hour or 500-hour RYT from Yoga Alliance, for example) adds credibility and is expected by most studios.
Q: Can I rent studio space as a freelancer, or do I need my own studio? A: Renting space at established studios is common and often the best approach when starting out. Many Dutch yoga studios welcome freelance instructors. You can also teach in parks, community centers, or clients' homes.
Q: Is the yoga market saturated in the Netherlands? A: It's competitive in major cities, but English-speaking instructors have a built-in niche with the expat community. Specializing in a style (vinyasa, yin, prenatal, aerial) or demographic helps you stand out.
Related Professions
If yoga instructor 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.