Thinking of moving to the Netherlands from the US? The DAFT visa offers Americans a unique opportunity to live and work in the Netherlands as self-employed professionals—whether you're a freelancer, remote worker, or entrepreneur looking for a fresh start in Europe.

Officially known as the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, this visa dates back to 1956, when it was established during the post-war Marshall Plan era to strengthen economic ties between the United States and the Netherlands. Today, it remains one of the most accessible and affordable pathways for Americans to gain legal residency and build a life abroad.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect once you arrive. While the DAFT visa process itself is relatively straightforward, securing housing can be one of the biggest challenges—especially in competitive markets like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam. That’s where Expat Home Finders comes in, helping you navigate the rental market and settle in with confidence.

What Is the DAFT Visa?

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty is a bilateral agreement that allows American citizens to apply for a Dutch residence permit as a self-employed person (zelfstandige). Unlike many other visa routes, DAFT does not require you to prove that your business benefits the Dutch economy in a specific way. The bar is intentionally lower — which is exactly why it’s so popular among American expats.

With a DAFT visa you can legally live in the Netherlands, run your own business, freelance, or work as a contractor. It does not allow you to work as an employee for a Dutch company — for that you would need a different permit.

Who Qualifies for the DAFT Visa?

‍To qualify for the DAFT visa you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be an American citizen
• You must be self-employed or plan to start a business in the Netherlands
• You must register a business (eenmanszaak or BV) with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK)
• You must have sufficient funds to support yourself — typically a minimum of around €4,500 in personal savings or starting capital
• You must have health insurance valid in the Netherlands
• You must not be employed by a Dutch company

The DAFT visa is open to a wide range of professionals — freelancers, consultants, coaches, designers, developers, writers, photographers and more. If you can run your business remotely or serve Dutch clients, you very likely qualify.

‍What Are the Benefits of the DAFT Visa?

The DAFT visa is one of the most accessible routes for Americans to live in the Netherlands legally. Here’s why so many choose it:

• Low barrier to entry. Unlike the highly skilled migrant visa or startup visa, DAFT does not require a sponsoring employer or a formal assessment of your business plan by the Dutch immigration service.
• Live anywhere in the Netherlands. Once approved, you can settle in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam or any other Dutch city. Many DAFT holders choose Amsterdam for its international community, but Utrecht and Haarlem are increasingly popular for their lower rents and quality of life.
• Path to permanent residency. After five years of continuous legal residence in the Netherlands, you can apply for a permanent residence permit — and eventually Dutch citizenship.
• Bring your family. Your partner and dependent children can join you in the Netherlands under a family reunification permit once your DAFT residence is approved.
• Access to Dutch healthcare and services. As a legal resident you can register with a GP, access Dutch public services, and enrol your children in local schools.

How to Apply for the DAFT Visa: Step by Step

Step 1 — Prepare Your Documents

Before you apply, gather the following:

• Valid US passport
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing approximately €4,500 or more)
• Proof of health insurance valid in the Netherlands
• A business plan or description of your self-employed activities
• Proof of Dutch address (or a statement of intent to register)

Step 2 — Apply at the Dutch Consulate or IND

If you are applying from the United States, you apply for an MVV (entry visa) at the Dutch consulate in your region. If you are already in the Netherlands on a valid visa, you can apply directly with the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service). The IND processes DAFT applications and typically gives a decision within 90 days.

Step 3 — Register Your Business with the KVK

Once in the Netherlands, register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel / KVK). This is a straightforward process and can often be done within a day. Your KVK registration number is essential for invoicing, opening a Dutch bank account, and operating legally as a self-employed person.

Step 4 — Register with Your Municipality

Register your address with your local gemeente (municipality) within five days of arriving. First-time registrations must be done in person at city hall — in Amsterdam, Utrecht and Rotterdam you can book your appointment online, but you must attend in person to complete it. You will receive your BSN (citizen service number), which you need for banking, healthcare and tax purposes.

Step 5 — Find a Home

This is where Expat Home Finders comes in. Finding a rental in the Netherlands as a self-employed DAFT visa holder can be more challenging than for salaried employees — some landlords are hesitant about freelance income. Our team knows which landlords and agencies are open to DAFT holders, and we handle viewings, offers, negotiations and contract review on your behalf — whether you’re still in the US or already in the country.

How Long Is the DAFT Visa Valid?

Your initial DAFT residence permit is valid for two years. After two years you can renew it, provided you are still self-employed and meeting the financial requirements. After five years of continuous legal residence you can apply for a permanent residence permit.

DAFT Visa and Taxes

As a self-employed person under DAFT, you are required to file Dutch taxes. You will pay income tax on your earnings, and you will need to register with the Dutch Tax Authority (Belastingdienst). The good news is that new arrivals may be eligible for the 30% ruling — a tax advantage that allows qualifying expats to receive 30% of their salary tax-free for up to five years. Speak to a Dutch tax advisor to find out if you qualify.

Let Expat Home Finders Help

Navigating a new visa route, a new country and a competitive rental market all at the same time is a lot. At Expat Home Finders, we specialise in helping Americans — including DAFT visa holders — find the right home across Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, Haarlem, Leiden, Den Haag, and surrounding Randstad areas..

We handle everything: viewings, offers, negotiations and paperwork — so you can focus on building your new life in the Netherlands, not stressing about the search.

Ready to find your Dutch home? Explore our services and let’s get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does DAFT stand for? DAFT stands for the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty — a bilateral agreement between the United States and the Netherlands that gives American citizens the right to live and work in the Netherlands as self-employed professionals.
• Can I get a DAFT visa if I work remotely for a US company? It depends. If you are an employee of a US company, DAFT does not apply. However, if you freelance or contract for US clients through your own Dutch business, you can qualify. Speak to an immigration lawyer to confirm your specific situation.
• How much money do I need for a DAFT visa? You typically need to show approximately €4,500 in personal savings or starting capital. This is one of the lowest financial thresholds of any Dutch visa route, which is one of the reasons DAFT is so popular among Americans.
• Can I bring my family with me on a DAFT visa? Yes. Once your DAFT residence permit is approved, your partner and dependent children can apply to join you in the Netherlands through a family reunification permit.
• How long does the DAFT visa application take? The IND typically processes DAFT applications within 90 days. Some applicants receive a decision sooner. Plan ahead and apply well before your intended move date.
• Can I buy a home in the Netherlands on a DAFT visa? Yes. Legal residents of the Netherlands — including DAFT visa holders — can purchase property. However, most Americans start with renting. At Expat Home Finders we help DAFT holders find rental homes across Amsterdam, Utrecht and Rotterdam.
• Is the DAFT visa the same as a freelance visa? Not exactly — but it functions similarly. The DAFT visa is specifically for American citizens and is based on the bilateral treaty. Other nationalities use different routes to obtain self-employed residence permits in the Netherlands.
• What happens after 5 years on a DAFT visa? After five years of continuous legal residence in the Netherlands, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. After further years of residency you may become eligible for Dutch citizenship, subject to meeting language and integration requirements.
• Can I work for Dutch clients on a DAFT visa? Yes. You can work for Dutch clients, international clients, or a mix of both — as long as you are doing so as a self-employed professional through your registered Dutch business, not as an employee.
• Do I need a Dutch address before applying for the DAFT visa? When applying from the US you do not need a confirmed Dutch address to begin the application, but you will need to register an address once you arrive. Finding a home before or shortly after arrival is essential. Expat Home Finders helps DAFT holders secure housing before they land in the Netherlands.

‍^{Written by Anna & Amy, Relocation Specialists at Expat Home Finders}

^{Published April 2026 on expathomefinders.nl — your local experts for expat housing in the Netherlands}

^{Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. DAFT visa requirements and procedures can change. We recommend consulting a qualified Dutch immigration specialist before making any decisions. Helpful resources include ind.nl, expatlaw.nl, and cardon.nl.}