12 Best DAFT Visa Business Ideas for Americans

DAFT visa business ideas enable Americans to start a business and reside in the Netherlands, all with just a visa.

If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own company in Europe, the DAFT visa could be your gateway. In this blog, we’ll show you exactly how it works and share business ideas you can launch with a small investment.

Whether you’re into freelancing, coaching, or selling digital products, there’s something here for you. Ready to turn your European dream into a reality?

Let’s get started.

What Is the DAFT Visa?

The DAFT visa (Dutch American Friendship Treaty visa) is a special residence permit that enables American citizens to reside in and establish a business in the Netherlands.

It exists due to a long-standing agreement between the U.S. and the Netherlands, known as the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty.

However, this treaty makes it easier for American entrepreneurs to start their businesses in the Netherlands than it is in most other EU countries.`

Best DAFT Visa Business Ideas for 2025

1. Freelance Web Design or Development

Design websites or build web applications for businesses, startups, or individuals. It’s a strong business idea because many Dutch companies, especially small ones, need modern, user-friendly websites.

As a DAFT visa holder, offering digital services like this is ideal for remote and freelance work.

Startup costs: Under €1,500 (laptop, software, hosting).
Tools: WordPress, Figma, GitHub, Webflow, Canva.

2. Copywriting or Content Writing Services

Write website content, blogs, or product descriptions for companies. It is a good business idea because English content is in demand across Europe, especially for global-facing Dutch businesses. That’s why, as a Daft visa holder, you can make a good business in this niche.

Startup costs: Under €500 (mainly for a website and tools).

Tools: Grammarly, Google Docs, Notion, Surfer SEO, LinkedIn.

3. Online Coaching or Consulting (Career, Wellness, etc.)

Offer expert guidance via video sessions in areas like career, wellness, or business. It’s a great business model because the Netherlands has a growing remote work culture, and many expats seek English-speaking coaches.

That’s why this is a perfect fit for DAFT visa entrepreneurs.

Startup costs: Around €1,000 (branding, tools, basic marketing).
Tools: Zoom, Calendly, Stripe, Canva, Kajabi.

4. Virtual Assistant Business

Help businesses manage administrative tasks, such as emails, calendars, and data entry, remotely. It’s in demand because many European solopreneurs outsource to reliable English-speaking assistants.

However, for DAFT visa holders, it’s a low-cost, flexible service business.

Startup costs: Under €500 (website, basic setup).
Tools: Google Workspace, Trello, Notion, Slack, Upwork.

5. Dropshipping or Print-on-Demand Store

Sell custom products online without managing inventory. It’s a wise choice because European suppliers offer fast shipping within the Netherlands.

However, as a DAFT visa holder, this model lets you run a store from anywhere.

Startup costs: €1,000–€2,000 (store setup, testing, ads).

Tools: Shopify, Printful, Canva, Meta Ads, Oberlo.

6. Niche Blogging or Affiliate Marketing

Create content around a specific topic and earn through ads or affiliate links. It’s a great DAFT visa business idea because you can earn passively and build long-term authority. It also fits the remote lifestyle perfectly.

Startup costs: Under €1,000 (hosting, SEO tools, branding).

Tools: WordPress, Surfer SEO, Ahrefs, Google Analytics.

7. Digital Product Business (E-books, Courses)

Sell digital items like e-books, templates, or courses. This is an ideal business for DAFT visa holders because it requires no shipping, no inventory, and offers 100% remote control. It also scales well over time.

Startup costs: Under €1,000 (software, design, platform setup).

Tools: Gumroad, Canva, Notion, Teachable, Stripe.

8. English Tutoring/Language Training

Teach English online to students, professionals, or children. It’s a solid DAFT visa business idea because many Dutch and European learners want native-level tutoring. Plus, it requires minimal setup.

Startup costs: Under €300 (website, video tools).

Tools: Zoom, Google Docs, Preply, Canva, Notion.

9. Expat Services (Relocation Consulting, Housing Help)

Help expats find housing, understand Dutch systems, or settle in smoothly. It works well because moving to the Netherlands can be complex, and your own experience becomes a valuable service.

Startup costs: Under €1,000 (including branding, website, and marketing).

Tools: Wix, Calendly, Trello, WhatsApp, Google Sheets.

10. Social Media Management

Manage Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook pages for small businesses. It’s a good DAFT visa business idea because many Dutch companies need help expanding their online presence. Plus, it’s easy to do remotely and scale with clients.

Startup costs: Under €800 (tools, branding).

Tools: Canva, Meta Business Suite, Buffer, Notion, Instagram.

11. Translation or Localization Services

Translate content, websites, or marketing materials between English and Dutch (or other languages). The Netherlands has a strong demand for multilingual content, making this ideal for DAFT visa holders who are bilingual.

Startup costs: Under €500 (tools, marketing, simple website).

Tools: DeepL, Grammarly, WordReference, Google Docs, ProZ.

12. Photography or Videography Business (Events or Content Creators)

Capture events, portraits, or content for brands. This works well because cities like Amsterdam have a strong demand for quality visuals.

However, as a DAFT visa holder, you can offer freelance services locally or to content creators.

Startup costs: Under €4,500 (camera gear, website, editing tools).

Tools: Adobe Lightroom, Final Cut Pro, Instagram, Squarespace.

Can You Start a Business Under the DAFT Visa?

Yes, you can. The DAFT visa is specifically designed to help American citizens start a business in the Netherlands. That’s the entire point of the visa; it’s made for entrepreneurs.

Under the DAFT agreement (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty), U.S. citizens can live and run a business in the Netherlands legally. You don’t need to work for a Dutch employer. Instead, you create your job through your company.

This opens the door to many DAFT visa business ideas, especially ones that are low-cost and easy to start solo. Examples include

Freelancing
Online consulting
Digital product businesses
Remote service-based businesses

To qualify, your business needs to be

Officially registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK)
Based in the Netherlands (but it can operate online globally)
Real and active—not just on paper

How to Register Your Business Under the DAFT Visa

Once you’ve chosen one of the best DAFT visa business ideas, the next step is to officially register your business in the Netherlands.

Don’t worry, it’s a simple process if you follow the steps below.

Here’s exactly what you need to do:

1. Register Your Business with KvK (Dutch Chamber of Commerce)

To start working legally, you need to register with the Kamer van Koophandel (KvK). This is the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. You’ll book an appointment online, visit a local KvK office, and submit your business details.

2. Open a Dutch Business Bank Account

Next, open a Dutch business bank account in your company’s name. This is where you’ll keep your business finances and deposit your required investment.

However, many banks offer online setup, but some might need a face-to-face appointment.

3. Deposit Your €4,500 Investment

The DAFT visa requires a minimum investment of €4,500 in your business. Once your bank account is active, transfer the funds and keep a copy of the statement.

This demonstrates your commitment to your venture.

4. Prepare a Business Plan (Optional but Helpful)

While it’s not mandatory, submitting a simple business plan can strengthen your case with immigration. Just explain your business idea, how you’ll earn income, and who your target audience is. This is especially helpful for new entrepreneurs.

Understand Dutch Taxes (VAT/BTW)

If you’re running one of the approved DAFT visa business ideas, you’ll likely need to charge VAT (called BTW in Dutch). You’ll receive a tax number from the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax office) after registration.

Make sure to track income and expenses carefully. Consider using tools like Moneybird or Exact to make tax time easier.

Once you complete these steps, you’re officially a business owner in the Netherlands.

Now you’re free to start offering your services, attract clients, and grow your DAFT visa business with confidence.

Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Business Under the DAFT Visa

Try to avoid the following errors when starting any business in the Netherlands as a Daft visa holder:

Skipping or delaying KvK business registration
Forgetting to open a Dutch business bank account
Not depositing the required €4,500 investment
Choosing a business model that doesn’t meet the DAFT rules
Ignoring Dutch tax rules like VAT/BTW
Not keeping records of income and expenses
Mixing personal and business finances
Not setting up a basic invoicing system
Failing to research your market in the Netherlands
Relying only on U.S. clients instead of targeting Europe

Tips to Succeed as a DAFT Visa Entrepreneur in the Netherlands

Once you’ve picked one of the right DAFT visa business ideas, the next step is making it work. Here are some easy but powerful tips to help you grow and succeed:

Join expat or startup groups, such as StartupAmsterdam, to meet others and learn more effectively.
Build a simple, professional website that includes your KvK (Chamber of Commerce) number—this builds trust.
Try to use both English and Dutch in your content, especially for locals. Even basic Dutch can make a big difference.
Use accounting tools like Moneybird or Exact to stay on top of income, expenses, and taxes.

These small steps can help your American business in the Netherlands grow faster and run more smoothly.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a big budget or a million-dollar idea to get started. What you need is the right business idea, one that aligns with your skills, goals, and the principles of your vision.

The truth is that many DAFT visa business ideas are simple, low-cost, and ideal for first-time entrepreneurs.

So pick one that feels right, do a bit of research, and take that first small step.

Want to know more about business tips and ideas? Explore our site today!

FAQs

What is the easiest business to start under the DAFT visa

Freelancing or virtual services like writing or design—low cost, no inventory, easy to launch.

Can I start a side hustle while on a DAFT visa?

Yes, as long as it’s officially registered and meets the DAFT visa business requirements.

Do I need to hire Dutch employees?

No, there’s no requirement to hire Dutch employees under the DAFT visa.

Is it possible to start an online business?

Absolutely. Online businesses are common and fully allowed under the DAFT visa.

How long does it take to register a business under the DAFT visa?

Usually 1–2 weeks, depending on your KvK appointment and bank setup.