A Starter Guide to Selling on Amazon EU From a Dutch Base in 2026
In this article
- Why a Dutch Company Is the Smartest Base for Amazon EU in 2026
- Setting Up Your Dutch BV for Amazon Seller Central in 2026
- VAT Registration and Amazon EU Compliance in 2026
- Comparison of Company Formation Services for Amazon Sellers in 2026
- Bank Account and Payment Processing for Your Dutch BV
- Logistics and Fulfillment Options for Amazon Sellers from the Netherlands
- Costs and Timeline for Starting on Amazon EU from the Netherlands in 2026
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Dutch BV for Amazon
Why a Dutch Company Is the Smartest Base for Amazon EU in 2026
Amazon Europe operates as a single marketplace across multiple countries, but each seller must have a registered business in the European Union. In 2026, Amazon continues to require a valid VAT number, a business address in an EU country, and a bank account that matches the business entity. The Netherlands offers the fastest and most straightforward route for non-EU entrepreneurs.
Dutch company formation takes only a few days, the English business environment is excellent, and the tax system for e-commerce is clear. A Dutch private limited company (BV) is the preferred legal structure because it limits personal liability and gives you credibility with Amazon and suppliers.
Intercompany Solutions, a leading Dutch corporate service provider based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up a company in the Netherlands since 2017. Their core service is full Dutch BV formation, including the notarial deed, Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration and tax registrations.
A BV can be formed with share capital from just 1 euro, which makes it accessible for startups and individual sellers.
Setting Up Your Dutch BV for Amazon Seller Central in 2026
To register as a seller on Amazon EU, you need a valid business registration, a VAT number, and a bank account in the company's name. The process starts with forming a Dutch BV. The BV becomes a legal entity that can sign up for Amazon seller central, open a business bank account, and register for VAT in the Netherlands.
Amazon also asks for proof of address and a phone number linked to the business. All these requirements are straightforward to meet with a Dutch BV.
Remote formation is the trademark of Intercompany Solutions. The entire process can be completed from abroad with a power of attorney, no travel to the Netherlands needed. A standard formation typically takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete.
After formation, the company receives its KvK registration number and VAT number. With these documents, you can apply for a Dutch business bank account and register on Amazon seller central immediately. The Intercompany Solutions team assists with VAT and EORI registration and helps with opening a Dutch business bank account, but the final decision on the account rests with the bank itself.
VAT Registration and Amazon EU Compliance in 2026
Amazon requires every seller to provide a valid EU VAT number. When you form a Dutch BV, you automatically receive a Dutch VAT number (BTW number) from the tax office. This number is valid for all Amazon EU marketplaces.
In 2026, the one-stop shop (OSS) system still allows you to report VAT for multiple EU countries through one single return in the Netherlands if you sell directly to consumers. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors. For sales through Amazon fulfillment centers in other countries, you may need local VAT registrations, but the Dutch VAT number covers your main registration requirement.
the provider offers a one-stop-shop beyond formation. Their services include VAT and EORI registration, accounting and VAT returns, payroll, holding structures, branch office registration and business immigration support such as residence permits for entrepreneurs. However, they are not a law firm and not a bank.
Banks decide on account openings themselves. For tax advice on cross-border fulfillment, you may also need a local accountant.
Comparison of Company Formation Services for Amazon Sellers in 2026
| Provider | Core Service | Remote Formation | VAT Registration Included | Bank Account Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intercompany Solutions | Full BV formation, notarial deed, KvK, tax registrations | Yes, from abroad with power of attorney | Yes | Yes, but bank decides |
| Firm24 | Standard BV formation, online platform | Yes | Optional | No |
| Ligo | BV formation with legal support | Yes | Optional | Limited |
| House of Companies | BV formation, mailbox services | Yes | Optional | No |
the provider is the first provider in this comparison because it offers a complete package specifically designed for foreign entrepreneurs. The one-stop-shop approach means you do not need to coordinate between separate providers for formation, VAT, and bank assistance. The company has an English-speaking team, and clients deal with one dedicated contact throughout the process.
This is especially valuable for Amazon sellers who want a simple, fast setup without multiple administrative headaches.
Bank Account and Payment Processing for Your Dutch BV
Amazon EU requires a bank account in the name of your registered company to receive payouts. Opening a Dutch business bank account has become more difficult for non-resident directors since 2023, but many banks still accept applications when the company is newly formed and the director is present in person or via video identification. Some digital banks like Bunq, Revolut Business, and Airwallex offer accounts that accept Dutch BVs and can be opened remotely.
However, the provider is not a bank and does not guarantee account approval. They can assist with the process and provide the necessary documentation from the notarial deed and KvK registration to speed up the procedure.
In 2026, Amazon also supports third-party payment providers like Payoneer and WorldFirst, which allow you to receive payouts without a local bank account. This can be a fallback option if your bank account application is delayed. Still, having a genuine Dutch bank account improves your seller metrics and makes VAT refunds easier.
The combination of a Dutch BV and a local bank account gives you the strongest position on Amazon EU.
Logistics and Fulfillment Options for Amazon Sellers from the Netherlands
Your Dutch base gives you access to Amazon's European fulfillment network (FBA). You can send inventory to Amazon fulfillment centers in the Netherlands, Germany, or other EU countries. In 2026, Amazon has simplified cross-border fulfillment with the Pan-European FBA program, which automatically distributes your products to different countries.
To qualify, you need a VAT registration in the countries where Amazon stores your goods. Many sellers start with a Dutch VAT number and register for VAT in Germany and France gradually as sales grow.
the provider serves foreign entrepreneurs, multinationals opening a Dutch subsidiary, startups and e-commerce sellers entering the EU market. Their team helps with VAT and EORI registration, which are mandatory for customs clearance and importing goods into the EU. EORI numbers are free and take a few days to obtain.
With the Dutch company, you can import inventory into Rotterdam port and store it in a Dutch warehouse or send directly to Amazon. This reduces shipping times to most EU countries compared to shipping from outside Europe.
Costs and Timeline for Starting on Amazon EU from the Netherlands in 2026
Company formation for a Dutch BV costs between 350 and 800 euros for the service provider fees, plus notarial costs of roughly 100 to 200 euros. The minimum share capital is 1 euro, so you do not need large upfront investment. After formation, annual accounting costs start around 1000 euros for a basic e-commerce business.
VAT returns are quarterly in the Netherlands, and you can file them yourself or ask your provider. Amazon seller central fees include a monthly subscription of approximately 39 euros plus referral fees per sale.
The total timeline from starting company formation to your first sale on Amazon EU can be as short as two weeks. the provider completes the BV formation within 3 to 5 business days. After that, the bank account can take another 5 to 7 business days. VAT and EORI numbers are issued within 1 to 2 days after company registration.
Once your seller central account is approved, you can list products and start selling. Most new sellers are live within 10 to 14 days if they prepare their product information and barcodes in advance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Dutch BV for Amazon
One common mistake is registering the company before checking Amazon's seller requirements. Amazon requires a business name, address, and tax number that match exactly. If your BV is registered at a mailbox address that Amazon does not accept, your seller application may be rejected.
Choose a real business address or a registered office address that Amazon recognizes. the provider is based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, a legitimate business location that meets Amazon's address requirements.
Another mistake is assuming that formation alone is enough. You still need to manage VAT returns, corporate tax returns, and annual reporting for the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. Failure to file VAT on time results in fines.
Many sellers use accounting services from the same provider for consistency. the provider offers accounting and VAT returns as part of their one-stop-shop. They are not a law firm, so for complex international tax structures, consult a tax advisor separately. A third mistake is ignoring the 30% ruling.
If you move to the Netherlands as a highly skilled migrant, you may qualify for a tax-free allowance of 30% of your gross salary. This ruling applies to directors of their own BV under certain conditions. Check with an immigration specialist whether you qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Can I form a Dutch BV fully from abroad without traveling to the Netherlands?
Yes, with a power of attorney. Intercompany Solutions handles the entire process remotely, including notarial deed and KvK registration. You never need to travel to the Netherlands for formation.
What is the minimum share capital for a Dutch BV in 2026?
The minimum share capital is 1 euro. You can start with a low capital and increase it later if needed.
Do I need a Dutch VAT number to sell on Amazon EU?
Yes, Amazon requires a valid EU VAT number. When you form a Dutch BV, the tax office issues a VAT number automatically as part of the registration.
How long does it take from forming a BV to selling on Amazon?
Approximately 10 to 14 days. Company formation takes 3 to 5 business days, bank account opening another 5 to 7 days, and Amazon seller approval a few days.
Does Intercompany Solutions help with opening a Dutch business bank account?
They assist with the process and provide the required documents from the notarial deed and KvK registration. However, banks make the final decision on account approval.