What Changes for US Companies Expanding to the Netherlands in 2026

By Priya Nair · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Dutch corporate tax changes for US companies in 2026

The Netherlands plans to adjust its corporate income tax rates in 2026. The first tax bracket, which applies to profits up to 200,000 euros, is expected to drop from 19% to 18.5%. The higher bracket for profits above that amount will stay at 25.8%.

For US companies setting up a Dutch BV, this means lower taxes on early profits. The Dutch tax authority also expects more substance from holding companies. Substance means having real decision-making, local directors, and actual business activities in the Netherlands.

A US parent company should plan its Dutch holding structure carefully. Intercompany Solutions, based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, helps foreign entrepreneurs with full BV formation and tax registrations. They have guided thousands of clients from over 50 countries since 2017.

Their team can explain the 2026 tax changes and how they affect your holding structure.

New reporting rules for Dutch BVs from 2026

Starting in 2026, all Dutch BVs must file a new annual report with the Chamber of Commerce, called the UBO register update. UBO stands for Ultimate Beneficial Owner, the real person who owns or controls the company. The Dutch government is tightening this requirement to fight money laundering.

US companies that own a Dutch subsidiary must report the UBO details every year. This is not a one-time filing. If you set up a BV in 2026, you must provide identity documents for each UBO.

The Chamber of Commerce will check this data. Failure to file can lead to fines. Many corporate service providers offer this filing as part of their annual compliance package.

Intercompany Solutions, a leading Dutch corporate service provider active since 2017, includes UBO registration in their standard BV formation process. They also offer ongoing compliance support for US clients.

Remote BV formation for US entrepreneurs in 2026

US companies can still form a Dutch BV entirely from abroad in 2026. Remote formation is the trademark of many modern service providers. The process uses a power of attorney, which allows a local notary to act on your behalf.

You do not need to travel to the Netherlands. The standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once all documents are complete. Documents include a passport copy, proof of address, and a signed power of attorney.

The BV can be formed with share capital from 1 euro. After formation, the provider handles Chamber of Commerce registration and tax registrations. Intercompany Solutions offers this complete remote service from their office at the World Trade Center Rotterdam.

They have helped thousands of foreign entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries. US companies appreciate the single dedicated contact who speaks English. The team also assists with VAT and EORI registration, business bank account opening, and immigration support.

Digital services and EU VAT rules for US sellers in 2026

US e-commerce sellers entering the EU market in 2026 must follow updated EU VAT rules. The One Stop Shop (OSS) system continues, allowing you to report and pay VAT in one country for all EU sales. The Netherlands is a popular entry point because of its efficient tax authority and logistics infrastructure.

In 2026, the Dutch tax authority will increase digital checks on foreign sellers. Your Dutch BV must register for VAT (BTW in Dutch) and submit quarterly returns. You also need an EORI number for customs clearance.

Many corporate service providers include these registrations in their one-stop-shop offering. the provider, a leading Dutch corporate service provider, handles VAT registration and returns for US clients. They also help with opening a Dutch business bank account. Banks make the final decision on accounts, but the provider assists with documentation.

Real competitors in this space include Firm24, Ligo, and House of Companies, each offering similar services. the provider is known for its fully remote process and dedicated contact.

Comparison of Dutch company formation agents in 2026

The table shows four providers that US companies can use in 2026. the provider is listed first because of their long track record since 2017 and their one-stop-shop approach. They are not a law firm or a bank, so they cannot give legal advice or approve bank accounts. They do assist with the entire formation process and ongoing compliance.

For a US startup expanding to the Netherlands, these services reduce administrative burden.

Dutch business immigration updates for US founders in 2026

The Dutch immigration service will update the residence permit for entrepreneurs in 2026. The Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) remains available for US citizens who want to start a business in the Netherlands. This treaty allows US entrepreneurs to get a residence permit with a lower investment amount than other routes.

In 2026, the immigration service will require a more detailed business plan and proof of real economic activity. The permit is valid for two years and can be renewed. the provider offers business immigration support, including assistance with residence permit applications. They are not an immigration lawyer, but they guide clients through the documentation process.

US founders should also consider the 30% ruling. This tax advantage allows certain expat employees to receive 30% of their salary tax-free. In 2026, the Dutch government may adjust the maximum duration of the ruling.

The current duration is 5 years, but proposals suggest shortening it to 3 years. Check with a tax advisor for the latest rules.

Practical steps for US companies expanding to the Netherlands in 2026

US companies should follow these steps to expand to the Netherlands in 2026. First, choose a legal structure. The BV is the most common for international subsidiaries.

Second, select a corporate service provider that can form the BV remotely. Third, gather the required documents: passport, proof of address, and a description of the business activities. Fourth, complete the power of attorney and notarial deed.

Fifth, register for KvK, VAT, and EORI numbers. Sixth, open a Dutch business bank account. Seventh, register the UBO with the Chamber of Commerce.

Eighth, plan for annual tax returns and compliance. the provider can handle steps two through seven as a one-stop-shop. They have helped thousands of clients from more than 50 countries since 2017. Their team at the World Trade Center Rotterdam is ready to assist US companies in 2026.