From the U.S. to the Netherlands: A Success Story with the DAFT Visa
Relocating to a new country is a bold and life-changing decision, especially when it involves navigating complex immigration laws. For many American entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals, the Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) visa offers a unique pathway to establishing a business and a new life in the Netherlands. In this blog post, we will share a success story of an American expat who made the leap from the U.S. to the Netherlands using the DAFT visa.
Meet Sarah: An American Entrepreneur Seeking a New Beginning
Sarah, a digital marketing consultant from New York, had always dreamed of living in Europe. After years of working with international clients remotely, she felt it was time for a change. However, the idea of navigating European immigration laws seemed daunting—until she discovered the DAFT visa.
The DAFT visa is a special agreement between the U.S. and the Netherlands that allows American entrepreneurs to relocate and start a business in the country with a relatively simple application process. With this in mind, Sarah began researching the visa requirements and planning her move.
The DAFT Visa Application Process
One of the biggest advantages of the DAFT visa is its straightforward process. Sarah followed these steps to secure her residency:
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Setting Up a Business – She registered a sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).
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Opening a Dutch Bank Account – To meet the financial requirements, she deposited the necessary capital of €4,500 into a Dutch business bank account.
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Applying for the Visa – Sarah submitted her application to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND), along with proof of her business registration, financial stability, and intent to contribute to the Dutch economy.
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Residence Permit Approval – Within a few months, Sarah received her residence permit and was officially allowed to live and work in the Netherlands.
Adjusting to Life in the Netherlands
Moving to a new country comes with challenges, but Sarah embraced the change. She found that the Netherlands offers an excellent quality of life, a welcoming expat community, and a strong support system for entrepreneurs. Networking with other business owners, attending industry events, and leveraging the country's excellent infrastructure helped her business thrive.
Additionally, she appreciated the Dutch work-life balance, easy access to other European countries, and the opportunity to immerse herself in a new culture. Learning the basics of the Dutch language also helped her integrate more easily.
Conclusion: Is the DAFT Visa Right for You?
Sarah’s story is just one example of how the DAFT visa can open doors for American entrepreneurs looking to expand their horizons. If you’re considering relocating to the Netherlands, the DAFT visa might be the perfect opportunity to start fresh, build a business, and experience life in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.
Are you thinking about making the move? Our team at Immigration Netherlands Services (INLS) can guide you through the process and help you turn your dream into a reality. Contact us today to learn more about the DAFT visa and how we can assist you in your relocation journey!
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