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Htel Serviced Apartments
Laan van de Helende Meesters 421
1186 AL Amstelveen

welcome@htelapartments.com+31 20 4266400
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htel serviced apartments

Stay in touch.

Htel Serviced Apartments
Laan van de Helende Meesters 421
1186 AL Amstelveen

welcome@htelapartments.com+31 20 4266400
service@htelapartments.com+31 20 4266400
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Apartments
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About us
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q AND A

What Is the DAFT Visa?

The DAFT visa is a residence permit that allows US citizens to live and work in the Netherlands as self-employed individuals. DAFT stands for the Dutch–American Friendship Treaty, an agreement between the Netherlands and the United States designed to make it easier for Americans to start a business and reside in the country.

For Americans considering a move to Amsterdam or Amstelveen, the DAFT visa is one of the most accessible long-term residence options.

What Does the DAFT Visa Allow You to Do?

With a DAFT visa, US citizens can:

  • Live legally in the Netherlands
  • Work as a freelancer, consultant, or business owner
  • Register at a Dutch municipality
  • Open a Dutch bank account
  • Access healthcare and other essential services

The DAFT visa is typically issued for two years and can be renewed.

Official source:
https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits/work/residence-permit-self-employed-person

Who Is Eligible for the DAFT Visa?

The DAFT visa is only available to:

  • US passport holders
  • Individuals who plan to be self-employed in the Netherlands
  • Applicants who can demonstrate a viable business activity

Unlike other work visas, there is no points-based system and no minimum salary requirement.

Financial Requirement for the DAFT Visa

One of the key benefits of the DAFT visa is the relatively low financial threshold.

Applicants must:

  • Register a Dutch business
  • Deposit a minimum amount of capital into a Dutch business bank account

The required amount is currently modest compared to other visas.

More details:
https://ind.nl/en/work/self-employed

Where Can You Live on a DAFT Visa?

DAFT visa holders can live anywhere in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam and Amstelveen.

Many Americans choose:

  • Amsterdam for proximity to international business hubs
  • Amstelveen for a quieter, residential environment with strong expat communities

During the application process, flexible housing is often preferred.

DAFT Visa vs Other Dutch Visas

Compared to other Dutch residence permits, the DAFT visa:

  • Has fewer eligibility barriers
  • Does not require employer sponsorship
  • Offers greater independence and flexibility

This makes it especially attractive to freelancers, consultants, and entrepreneurs.

Important Things to Know Before Applying

  • The DAFT visa is not a tourist visa
  • You must actively run a business
  • You must register with the municipality and tax authorities
  • Processing times vary

Professional advice is recommended for complex cases.

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How Htel Apartments Can Help

Many Americans applying for the DAFT visa need temporary housing while setting up their business and completing registrations. Htel Apartments offers fully serviced apartments in the metropolitan region of Amsterdam, ideal for DAFT applicants who need flexibility, registration support, and a comfortable base during the process of moving to the Netherlands.

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Other Questions

Why Do the Dutch Always Keep Their Curtains Open?

To many internationals, this feels like living in a fishbowl. But for the Dutch, an open window is a symbol of a healthy, honest, and connected society. It isn't that they want you to watch them; it's that they have no reason to hide.

Is Dutch Directness Actually Rude or Just Efficient?

To many newcomers, Dutch communication can feel like a series of blunt shocks. Whether it’s a neighbor telling you your curtains are "ugly" or a boss saying your idea is "not very smart" in front of the whole team, it is easy to take it personally. However, in the Netherlands, this isn't seen as rudeness—it is seen as honesty, transparency, and respect.

What Is the Vrijmibo and How Can It Help Your Career?

‍Vrijmibo is a portmanteau of Vrijdagmiddagborrel (Friday Afternoon Drink). Starting anywhere from 16:00 to 17:00, colleagues gather—either in the office canteen or at a nearby "brown café"—to share a drink and a round of deep-fried snacks. In 2026, it remains the ultimate "unwritten" requirement for career integration in the Netherlands.

What Is ‘Gezelligheid’ and Can You Actually Create It?

‍Gezelligheid (noun) and its adjective gezellig are the Swiss Army knives of the Dutch language. While often loosely translated as "cozy," it actually describes a specific state of mind, an atmosphere, and a sense of belonging all at once.

What Is the "Dutch Circle Party" and How Do You Survive It?

In many cultures, a birthday party involves loud music, mingling, and a buffet. In a traditional Dutch household, it involves a quiet, organized circle of chairs in the living room. The goal is "inclusivity"—everyone should be able to see and speak to everyone else.

What Happens if You Lose Your Job in the Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, losing your job doesn't just impact your income—it triggers a "countdown" for your residence permit and your tax status. However, the Dutch system provides a grace period and financial support to ensure you aren't forced to leave immediately.

How Do I Use the Dutch Pharmacy (Apotheek)?

In the Netherlands, there is a clear distinction between an Apotheek and a Drogist. If you need a prescription filled or medical advice on complex drugs, you go to the Apotheek. If you need vitamins, shampoo, or light painkillers, you go to the Drogist.

How Do I Register with a Dutch GP (Huisarts)?

You should register with a GP as soon as you have a permanent or semi-permanent address. Most doctors will only accept you if you live within a 15-minute radius of their practice to ensure they can reach you quickly in an emergency.

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