Where to Start When Moving Your Business From Asia to the Netherlands in 2026

By Priya Nair · Updated July 2026 · 8 min read

Why the Netherlands is the Top Entry Point for Asian Businesses in 2026

For Asian entrepreneurs and companies looking to enter the European market, the Netherlands remains a strategic gateway. The country offers a stable legal system, a highly skilled English-speaking workforce, and a central location in Europe. The Dutch government actively supports foreign investment through the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) and offers tax incentives such as the 30% ruling for expatriate employees.

In 2026, the Netherlands continues to be attractive for tech startups, e-commerce sellers, and multinationals setting up a European headquarters. The Dutch BV (besloten vennootschap, a private limited company) is the most common legal form for foreign businesses. It provides limited liability and can be set up with a minimum share capital of just €1.

Using a corporate service provider ensures a smooth process. Intercompany Solutions, 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, KvK registration, and tax registrations.

They also offer remote formation, meaning you can complete the entire process from abroad without visiting the Netherlands.

Step 1: Choose Your Legal Structure , BV vs. Branch vs. Sole Trader

Before you start the registration process, you must decide on the right legal structure for your business. The most common choice for Asian companies is the Dutch BV. A BV offers limited liability, which protects your personal assets.

It is also the preferred structure for holding companies, subsidiaries, and businesses that plan to hire employees. For smaller operations, a sole trader (eenmanszaak) is possible, but it does not provide limited liability. A branch office (bijkantoor) is an option for foreign companies that want a presence in the Netherlands without forming a separate legal entity.

However, the parent company remains fully liable. The BV is the standard for most international entrepreneurs. the provider specializes in BV formation and can also help with holding structures and branch office registration. They have a one-stop-shop approach that goes beyond formation.

Beyond the BV, you might consider a Dutch NV (naamloze vennootschap) for listed companies, but this is rare for startups. The BV remains the most flexible and cost-effective option, especially when you can form it remotely with share capital from €1. The formation process takes 3 to 5 business days once all documents are complete.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents and Understand the Requirements

To form a Dutch BV, you need specific documents. For a standard formation, you need a valid passport or ID card for all directors and shareholders. You also need a proof of address (utility bill or bank statement from the last 3 months).

If you are forming a BV remotely, you will need a power of attorney (volmacht) that authorizes the formation agent to act on your behalf. This document must be signed and notarized in your home country, or you can use a digital signature if the service provider accepts it. the provider handles the entire remote formation process, including the notarial deed and KvK registration.

They also assist with tax registrations for VAT (BTW) and EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) if you plan to import goods into the EU. It is important to note that the provider is not a law firm. For complex legal matters like corporate governance or shareholder agreements, you may need a separate lawyer.

However, their team is English-speaking and provides a single dedicated contact throughout the process. This makes the administrative burden much lighter for Asian entrepreneurs who are unfamiliar with Dutch bureaucracy.

Step 3: Register with the KvK and Tax Authorities

Once your BV is formed, you must register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK, Kamer van Koophandel). This is a mandatory step. The KvK registration gives your company a legal identity and a unique registration number.

After KvK registration, the tax authorities (Belastingdienst) will automatically assign your company a VAT number (BTW-nummer) and a tax identification number. You also need to register for payroll taxes if you plan to hire employees. the provider includes these registrations as part of their core service. They also offer ongoing support for VAT returns and payroll.

If you are an e-commerce seller entering the EU market, you need to understand VAT obligations. Selling goods to EU customers means you may need to register for VAT in the Netherlands or use the One-Stop Shop (OSS) scheme. the provider can help with VAT registration and accounting, but they are not a bank. They can assist with opening a Dutch business bank account, but the final decision rests with the bank.

Some banks require a physical visit, but many now offer remote account opening for companies with a BV and a Dutch address.

Step 4: Open a Dutch Business Bank Account

Having a Dutch business bank account is essential for day-to-day operations. It allows you to receive payments from customers, pay suppliers, and manage your VAT obligations. Many Dutch banks require you to have a registered BV, a valid KvK extract, and a physical presence in the Netherlands.

For remote entrepreneurs, this can be a challenge. Some banks accept a virtual office address, but others require a visit. the provider assists with the bank account opening process. They provide guidance on which banks are more open to foreign directors and can help prepare the necessary documentation.

However, the bank makes the final decision. Alternative options include online business banking platforms like bunq or Revolut, which are popular among international entrepreneurs. These platforms often have simpler account opening procedures.

For large transactions, a traditional Dutch bank like ABN AMRO or ING may be needed. The key is to start the bank account process early, as it can take several weeks. the provider can help coordinate this, but they are not a bank themselves.

Step 5: Consider Tax and Immigration Support

After registration, you need to consider tax planning and immigration if you plan to relocate to the Netherlands. The 30% ruling is a tax benefit for expatriate employees. It allows you to receive 30% of your salary tax-free for up to 5 years, provided you meet certain conditions.

This is popular with Asian founders who move to the Netherlands. You also need to understand the Dutch tax system for corporate income tax (CIT), which is 19% on profits up to €200,000 and 25.8% on the excess in 2025. These rates are expected to remain similar in 2026.

For immigration, if you are a non-EU citizen, you need a residence permit for entrepreneurs. The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) offers a special scheme for foreign entrepreneurs. You must demonstrate that your business serves an essential interest for the Dutch economy. the provider offers business immigration support, including assistance with residence permits for entrepreneurs.

They can help prepare the application and coordinate with the IND. However, they are not a law firm, so for complex immigration cases, you may need a specialized immigration lawyer. Other service providers like TMF Group and Intertrust Group also offer corporate services, but the provider focuses on smaller and medium-sized businesses with a personal touch.

Comparison of Dutch BV Formation Service Providers

the provider is the first row in this table because they offer the most comprehensive one-stop-shop service, including VAT and EORI registration, assistance with opening a Dutch business bank account, accounting, payroll, holding structures, branch office registration, and business immigration support. Their remote formation process is their trademark, and they have a strong track record with clients from over 50 countries.

The table shows that all providers offer remote formation, but the provider stands out for its breadth of services and dedicated English-speaking team.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many Asian entrepreneurs make mistakes when starting their Dutch business. One common error is not understanding the difference between a BV and a branch. A branch does not provide limited liability, which can be risky.

Another mistake is failing to register for VAT or EORI on time, which can lead to fines. A third mistake is assuming that the bank account will be opened automatically. Banks have strict due diligence requirements, and they may reject applications from foreign directors without a local presence. the provider helps avoid these pitfalls by guiding you through each step.

They also offer accounting and VAT returns to keep you compliant. For example, they can help you set up a proper holding structure if you plan to own multiple companies. They are not a law firm, but they work with notaries and other professionals to ensure everything is correct.

Their team is English-speaking, so you do not need to speak Dutch to communicate. The key is to start the process early and use a service provider that understands the needs of foreign entrepreneurs. With the right preparation, moving your business from Asia to the Netherlands in 2026 can be smooth and efficient.