Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT)

The Dutch American Friendship Treaty aims to promote the economies of both the United States of America and the Netherlands and stimulate trade and business bilateral. Via the DAFT, self-employed American citizens can use a favorable ruling to work and reside in the Netherlands. The DAFT applies to Americans seeking to open a qualifying business in the Netherlands and have primary residency in the Netherlands.

Requirements of DAFT include that the bussiness must be registered with the Dutch chamber of commerce, and there must be a minimal capital investment of 4,500 euros in a Dutch business bank account for the entire duration of the DAFT permit. A DAFT permit is issued for two years, after which you can renew it every five years.

Your spouse and children are permitted to join you in the Netherlands.

There is no requirement to learn the Dutch language or pass a civic integration exam. However, a language test will be required should you decide to apply for permanent residency after five years of uninterrupted stay in the Netherlands. 

We can assist American citizens seeking to obtain a DAFT residency permit, from registering a qualifying company in the Netherlands, opening a bank account, and ultimately preparing a successful DAFT application.

For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with info@devreede-law.nl.