The Netherlands, also known as Holland is an inviting country that poses a great digital nomad lifestyle for remote workers all over the world. The Netherlands has always been famous among tourists, thanks to its lively environment and vibrant culture. However, it has also started to earn popularity among the digital nomad community.
Remote workers and nomads have discovered numerous benefits in the Netherlands over recent years and made it a popular destination. Rightfully so, considering that this country has a lot to offer! If you are wondering about the visa policy of this gem, keep reading this ultimate guide and learn all the essentials.
Does the Netherlands have a Digital Nomad Visa?
While the Netherlands doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa program per se, there are several alternative options that are just as beneficial and advantageous. The Netherlands long-stay visa (MVV visa) allows interested individuals to register as independent workers in the country and work remotely.
This self-employed residence permit is the closest thing to a digital nomad visa and it has all the similar characteristics. This option allows you to work with Dutch companies as well (which is something that a typical digital nomad visa doesn’t offer)
Furthermore, the self-employed residence permit also opens a pathway to Dutch residency.
Who can Apply for the Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa?
Netherlands’s digital nomad visa (the self-employed residence permit in this context) has a unique scoring system.
Eligibility requirements
Anyone who gains a sufficient amount of points can apply for this visa. The application is divided into 3 parts with 300 total points. Applicants must score at least 30 points in each part and a minimum of 90 points in total. Here are the parts:
- Foreign nationals with personal experience: this can be in terms of work experience, education, and other entrepreneurial activities and endeavor.
- Possess a business plan: presentation with accurate details about the product or service.
- Show how you contribute to the Netherlands’ innovative success and Dutch economy.
How do you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in the Netherlands?
The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) is the designated authority that handles this visa in the Netherlands. You can see the step-by-step guide below to learn how to apply for a digital nomad visa in the Netherlands. Just remember that an MVV visa must be acquired simultaneously with a residence permit.
- Submitting the application
The Dutch government and authorities allow you to submit applications through the Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV). You can contact the nearest Dutch embassy and make an appointment. Following that, you’ll need to visit the embassy in your home country and submit your application in person. Make sure to schedule a meeting to avoid any delays.
- Fill out the application form
This step includes a lot of intricate details. Hence, the necessary amount of attention should be given. Since you’re applying in person, you’ll need to print the application form and fill it out before your appointment. You can easily get it online and print it.
- Gather the documents
Now is the time to gather all the required documents for a Digital Nomad Visa. Make sure to double-check them before submitting.
- Pay the fee
Once you have applied, you’ll have to pay the visa fees which will vary depending on how you have applied. You can pay via credit card, cash, or bank transfers since they are all eligible for in-person applications.
- Get a residence permit
You need to apply for a residence permit at the same time as the MVV visa.
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of a Netherlands digital nomad visa or a self-employed residence permit varies based on the country of your residence. The visa application fee is less for some countries such as Turkey while others have to pay a larger sum. An embassy can guide you best about this, with close regard to your country’s visa policy with the Netherlands.
Some additional costs may include translating documents into an adequate language such as Dutch, English, French, or German. Civic integration exam will also need to be performed.
Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
The Dutch government also requires the following information during the application process.
Necessary documentation
Take a look at the document checklist below. You are supposed to meet these specific requirements while applying for a Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa.
- Clear criminal record: You need to provide legal documents such as a criminal background check or clean criminal certification that proves that you have not been convicted of any crimes. A signed antecedents certificate should be submitted, containing details about any previous convictions
- A valid passport: a passport that will remain valid for the duration of your intended stay in the Netherlands and 6 months beyond that. You can submit other travel documents as well
- Completion of a tuberculosis test
- Valid health insurance
- A filled-out MVV application form
- Proof of Dutch bank account: if you are planning to work locally
- Business presentation: if you are traveling to the Netherlands for the purposes of establishing your start-up, you must submit a step-by-step plan detailing your idea
Financial requirements
You need to submit proof of income that shows you are fulfilling the minimum income requirement for eligibility. While there is no set amount, your income must be sufficient and sustainable. You can prove it by submitting bank statements, pay slips, or tax documents.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa?
Once you have completed all the necessary steps including the civic integration exam, the relevant authorities i.e. the IND will take 90 days to make their decision. Upon receiving your MVV, you’ll have 3 months to acquire from an overseas office. You must travel to the Netherlands and apply for a residence permit within 2 weeks.
However, you should keep in mind that the processing time will vary based on factors such as the accuracy of your application, the competency of the departments, the amount of burden they are dealing with, and perhaps even some government policies.
Benefits of the Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa
Natural beauty
When it comes to the subject of “nature” in the Netherlands, we think it’s safe to say that the country is simply abundant. From beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes to lush greenery and botanical gardens, the Netherlands is every nature lover’s dream. Other than that, it is also home to an environmentally aware community. You can engage in countless nature-related outdoor activities here and have a splendid time.
Good internet
The Netherlands has high-speed internet connections that are suitable for remote working and a digital nomad lifestyle. The country experiences median download speeds of 192.77 Mbps and average download speeds of 142.49 Mbps. You can expect an internet connection to be smooth and reliable if nothing else.
You can also get a local SIM card upon arrival to ensure extra consistency. Most providers offer affordable packages and good service in the country but make sure to compare data plans before making a decision.
The internet is every remote worker’s best friend so make sure to put some thought into it! Other than that, cafes and co-working spaces offer fast and free wifi as well.
Affordable cost of living
While the Netherlands is not the cheapest digital nomad hotspot out there, it’s cheaper than most popular destinations. You can enjoy great value for money and access a ton of modern amenities for low costs. You can live here on a tight budget and experience a high quality of life. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle.
As you can see, this country has a ton of benefits and pros! Digital nomads can have a splendid living experience here and enjoy their time. If you are willing to look past the cold climate and language barriers, you’ll be able to enjoy the unreal natural beauty and numerous facilities.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands requires all of its tax residents to pay income taxes. Whether you are a tax resident or not is defined by the type of visa you reply for. If you are living on a self-employed residence permit, working as a freelancer in the Netherlands, and providing services to local businesses then your income will be taxed. Either way, this country charges progressive taxes that increase with your income level.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa Netherlands
The MVV in itself is valid for 3 months and it must be collected during that time and accessed. Once you travel to the Netherlands, you can officially apply for a residence permit and get 2 years’ worth of validity.
Once that period has passed, you can extend your permit as long as you re-apply 3 months prior to expiration.
Furthermore, this remote work visa; a self-employed residence permit also opens pathways to permanent residence as long as you work as a freelancer at local business activities and Dutch clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do EU citizens require a visa to enter the Netherlands?
Under the Schengen and European Union agreement, no. EU and Schengen area citizens do not need a visa to enter and stay in the Netherlands. You can stay in this country and even work without a work permit.
Why am I denied a Netherlands visa?
Your Netherlands digital nomad visa can get denied due to different reasons.
1) incomplete or inaccurate visa application.
2) false information
3) failure to meet the eligibility criteria.
Who can enter the Netherlands without a visa?
Citizens of the following countries will find it a lot easier to acquire a Netherlands visa: EU nation, Switzerland, Turkey, or Japan.
What is the best place for digital nomads in the Netherlands?
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a mesmerizing city with a concoction of colors and vibrancy. While it has always been unique, this great place has gained popularity among the digital nomad community over the recent years.
What is a civic integration exam in the Netherlands?
Applicants for the self-employed residency visa must take this €150 exam as a requirement. It is designed to test the applicant’s knowledge of the Dutch language and society to determine eligibility. Only people aged between 18 and 65 will need to take it.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Netherlands is certainly an intriguing European country that compels travelers from all over the world. This beautiful country is a dazzling combination of vibrancy, colors, and heritage. Considering all of this, it’s safe to say that the Netherlands is nothing short of a hidden gem!
If you are ready to explore it, make sure to learn about its visa policies. This article discussed the Netherlands digital nomad visa program (self-employed residency) and the process that concerns it. We hope it answered all your questions, provided the list of necessary documents, and helped you evaluate the visa policy of this country. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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