How to register your business at the KVK as a foreigner
Registering your business at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce as a foreigner involves a few extra steps compared to a Dutch resident. Here's what to expect.
What's different about KVK registration for foreign entrepreneurs?
Registering a business at the KVK as a foreigner requires a BSN, and for non-EU citizens generally a residence permit that allows entrepreneurship, alongside the standard requirements like an SBI code and, for most structures, UBO registration.
Registering a business at the KVK (Dutch Chamber of Commerce) as a foreign entrepreneur involves a few extra considerations. EU and EEA citizens can generally register without a residence permit, but non-EU citizens typically need a valid residence permit that allows entrepreneurship. You'll also need a BSN, the Dutch citizen service number, which you usually receive when registering as a resident with your local municipality, though non-residents can sometimes obtain one through the RNI procedure.
Once you're through registration, you'll need the right legal documents in place. At EenvoudigRecht, we draft these in English, compliant with Dutch law, for a fixed price.
Veelgestelde vragen
What do I need to register my business at the KVK as a foreigner?
You need a valid form of identification, a Dutch address (which can sometimes be a co-working space or business address, depending on your structure), and a BSN, the Dutch citizen service number. For most structures, you also need to book an in-person appointment at the KVK.
Do I need a residence permit to start a business in the Netherlands?
Not necessarily. EU and EEA citizens can generally register a business in the Netherlands without a residence permit. Non-EU citizens typically need a valid residence permit that allows entrepreneurship, such as a specific self-employment residence permit.
How do I get a BSN if I'm not yet a Dutch resident?
You usually receive your BSN when you register with your local municipality (gemeente) as a resident. If you're not registering as a resident, some entrepreneurs can obtain a BSN through the RNI procedure for non-residents.
How do I choose the right SBI code for my business?
Choose the SBI code that accurately describes your actual business activities, since it affects which permits and insurance considerations may apply. If you're unsure, ask the KVK for guidance during your appointment, since a wrong code can create problems later.
Do I need to register in the UBO register as a foreign business owner?
For most structures, you also need to register your ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) in the UBO register, with the exception of a sole proprietorship, which generally doesn't need to.
Waar kunnen we je mee helpen?
Stuur ons je gegevens en wij nemen binnen één werkdag contact met je op.
✅ Vaste prijs vooraf
Je weet altijd vooraf wat het kost. Na je aanvraag ontvang je binnen één werkdag een vrijblijvende offerte op maat.
✅ Juridisch specialist
Je spreekt rechtstreeks met mr. René van der Horst. Een specialist die jouw situatie kent en met je meedenkt.
✅ Snel en betaalbaar
Geen ingewikkeld gedoe. Wij regelen het snel en in gewone taal, zodat jij weet waar je aan toe bent.
✅ Al duizenden klanten gingen je voor
EenvoudigRecht helpt al jaren ondernemers én particulieren met juridische zekerheid. Jij bent aan het juiste adres.
Wat onze klanten zeggen
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Martijn
Doet z’n naam recht aan; lekker eenvoudig. Het opgeleverde werk is allesbehalve eenvoudig maar van hoge kwaliteit.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Rinus
Zeer prettig contact gehad met René. Kundige jurist, meedenkend en zeer behulpzaam. En niet onbelangrijk een top prijs kwaliteit verhouding!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Anouk
Eenvoudig Recht heeft mij fantastisch geholpen. Ze zijn vlot, denken met je mee en als je nog een keer een vraag hebt zijn ze ook echt behulpzaam.