Short answer: choose a legal form, register with the Chamber of Commerce (KVK) — in 2026 that costs a one-off €85.15 — and the Dutch tax authority will then automatically send you your VAT ID by post. Set up proper bookkeeping from day one.
1. Choose your legal form
Most starters begin with a sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak): quick to set up, and you get the entrepreneur’s tax deductions if you meet the conditions. Starting with someone else? A general partnership (vof) may fit. A BV (private limited company) is set up via a civil-law notary and mainly makes sense with higher profits or more risk. More in Sole proprietorship, partnership or BV?
2. Register with the KVK
For a sole proprietorship or partnership:
- Fill in the online registration form (you need DigiD).
- Book an appointment at a KVK office, up to 8 weeks ahead.
- Bring a valid ID. If your business address is not your home address, you need a rental or purchase contract or written permission from the owner.
- At the appointment the KVK chooses the right activity code (SBI code) with you and checks your trade name.
You can register from one week before to one week after starting. For a partnership, all partners attend. A BV is registered by the notary.
| What | Amount or time frame (2026) |
|---|---|
| KVK registration fee | €85.15 one-off |
| Registration | 1 week before to 1 week after your start |
| Minimum share capital (BV) | €0.01 |
3. Your VAT ID arrives by post
After registration, the KVK passes your details to the tax authority (Belastingdienst). You then receive your VAT identification number by post (for your invoices and website), and, in a separate letter, your VAT tax number (omzetbelastingnummer) for your VAT returns.
4. Bookkeeping from day one
- Open a separate business account so personal and business money stay apart.
- Keep all receipts and invoices; digital is fine. You must keep them for 7 years.
- Issue correct invoices with all mandatory details. See Dutch invoice requirements.
- If your turnover stays low, check whether the small business scheme (KOR) suits you.
5. Plan your first returns
You usually file a VAT return every quarter, even without turnover. Every year there is the income tax return. Put the deadlines in your calendar right away, or leave it to us.
Just arrived from Ukraine? With temporary protection you may start a business, but your clients often need a work permit (TWV). Read Doing business under temporary protection.
This article gives general information and is not personal advice. Rules and amounts change; to find out what applies to your situation, get in touch with us.