What Are the Core Requirements for a DAFT Visa in 2026?

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) remains one of the most accessible pathways for U.S. citizens to live and work in Europe. While many "startup" visas in the EU require complex point systems or millions in funding, the DAFT is based on a simple bilateral agreement from 1956.

As of April 2026, here are the core requirements you must meet to secure your two-year residence permit.

1. The Financial Requirement: €4,500 "Capital"

This is the most famous part of the treaty. You must show that you are investing a "substantial" amount in the Dutch economy.

• The Amount: You must deposit a minimum of €4,500 into a Dutch business bank account.

• The "Maintained" Rule: This is not a fee. It is your company's money. However, your business equity must stay above €4,500 for the duration of your permit. If you spend that money on a laptop and don't replace it with revenue, your permit could be revoked upon renewal.

• Verification: You need an "Opening Balance Sheet" prepared and signed by a Dutch accountant with a BECON number to prove this deposit to the IND.

2. Business Ownership & Structure

You aren't just moving to the Netherlands; you are moving to run a business.

• 25% Rule: You must own at least 25% of the business.

• Structure: Most DAFT applicants choose between a ZZP (Sole Proprietorship) or a B.V. (Limited Liability Company).
  • Note: If you want the 30% Ruling (the 2026 tax break for expats), you generally must choose a B.V. and meet specific salary thresholds.
• KVK Registration: Your business must be registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel).

3. Administrative "Must-Haves"

• U.S. Citizenship: You must hold a valid U.S. passport.

• Legalized Documents: You need an Apostilled birth certificate (and marriage certificate, if applicable). "Apostilled" means it has a special gold-seal certification from the Secretary of State where the document was issued.

• Clean Record: You must sign an "Antecedents Certificate" declaring you have no criminal history. A full FBI background check is usually not required for the initial DAFT application.

4. The 2026 Costs & Timeline

• IND Application Fee: For 2026, the fee for the main applicant is €423.

• Processing Time: Once submitted, the IND typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to make a final decision.

• The "Sticker": After you apply, you can get a "residence endorsement sticker" in your passport. This allows you to stay in the Netherlands legally while you wait for your card.

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Final Approval: Your accountant sends an opening balance sheet to the IND, and your 2-year card is issued.

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