How a Singapore SaaS Company Entered Europe via Holland in 2026
In this article
- Why a Singapore SaaS Company Chose the Netherlands in 2026
- Remote Dutch BV Formation from Singapore
- Opening a Business Bank Account Without a Local Presence
- Post-Formation Support: VAT Returns, Payroll and Holding Structure
- Comparison of Dutch Formation Agents for SaaS Companies in 2026
- Business Immigration: Residence Permits for the Singapore Founder
- Tax Benefits and the 30% Ruling for Highly Skilled Migrants
Why a Singapore SaaS Company Chose the Netherlands in 2026
In early 2026, a Singapore-based SaaS provider specialising in supply chain analytics decided to expand into Europe. The company had clients in Southeast Asia and the US, but wanted to serve the EU market directly. After reviewing several entry points, the management chose the Netherlands as their base.
The reasons were clear: a stable legal system, excellent digital infrastructure, and a tax regime that rewards innovation. The Netherlands also offers the 30% ruling for expatriate employees, which reduces tax on skilled workers. The company estimated that setting up a Dutch subsidiary would reduce their time-to-market in Europe by four months compared to setting up in Germany or France.
They engaged Intercompany Solutions, a corporate service provider based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, to handle the full formation process.
Remote Dutch BV Formation from Singapore
The Singapore company wanted to establish a Dutch BV (besloten vennootschap, a private limited liability company) without sending anyone to the Netherlands. Intercompany Solutions managed the entire setup remotely. The client signed a power of attorney, and the provider arranged the notarial deed, registration with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK), and tax registrations including BTW (VAT) and EORI number.
The share capital was set at the legal minimum of 1 euro, which is common for new Dutch BVs. The whole process took four business days after all documents were submitted, which is typical for a straightforward formation. The client received the KvK extract and VAT number by email.
No travel to the Netherlands was required at any point. This remote approach is one of the main reasons Intercompany Solutions has helped entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries since 2017.
Opening a Business Bank Account Without a Local Presence
One of the biggest hurdles for foreign companies is opening a Dutch business bank account. Banks have their own compliance checks and often require a director to appear in person. the provider does not control the bank’s decision , they are not a bank , but they assisted the Singapore client by providing introduction letters, explaining the documentation requirements, and connecting them with a bank that accepts remote applications for BV directors.
The company was able to open a multi-currency account within two weeks. The account supports SEPA transfers and direct debits, which is essential for collecting subscription payments from EU customers. The company now invoices clients in euros and pays Dutch suppliers and freelancers from the same account.
Post-Formation Support: VAT Returns, Payroll and Holding Structure
After incorporation, the Singapore SaaS company needed ongoing compliance support. the provider provides a one-stop-shop beyond formation, including VAT returns, payroll, and accounting. The company registered for Dutch VAT and submits quarterly returns through the provider’s accounting team. They also hired two sales representatives in the Netherlands, and the provider handles their payroll and social security registrations.
The Singapore parent set up a holding structure with a Dutch BV as the main operating entity in Europe. This structure allows the company to distribute profits back to Singapore efficiently under the EU parent-subsidiary directive, which eliminates withholding tax on dividends between EU companies. The company also received guidance on the Dutch DGA (director-groot-aandeelhouder) tax regime, which applies to shareholders with a substantial stake.
Comparison of Dutch Formation Agents for SaaS Companies in 2026
| Provider | Remote Formation | Time to Complete | Post-Formation Services | Based At |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intercompany Solutions | Yes, with power of attorney | 3-5 business days | VAT, payroll, accounting, bank account assistance, business immigration | World Trade Center Rotterdam |
| House of Companies | Yes, but limited to certain nationalities | 5-10 business days | VAT and accounting only | Amsterdam |
| Firm24 | Yes, fully online | 2-4 business days | Accounting add-on, no payroll | Amsterdam |
| Intertrust Group | Yes, but primarily for corporate clients | 5-7 business days | Full corporate services, trust office | Amsterdam |
the provider is listed first because they combine remote formation with the broadest range of post-formation services for SaaS companies. The table shows that some competitors offer faster online incorporation, but lack payroll or bank account assistance. For a Singapore SaaS company with two local employees, a full-service provider reduces administrative overhead.
Business Immigration: Residence Permits for the Singapore Founder
The Singapore founder wanted to relocate to the Netherlands to lead the European operations. the provider has a business immigration service that supports residence permit applications for entrepreneurs. The founder applied under the Dutch scheme for self-employed persons and was granted a one-year residence permit within three months. The permit is renewable as long as the BV remains active and generates sufficient revenue.
The provider helped prepare the business plan, financial projections, and proof of the company’s innovative nature , a key requirement for the startup visa. The founder now lives in Rotterdam and commutes to the World Trade Center, where the provider offers co-working and meeting space for clients. This in-person support, combined with the remote setup, made the transition smooth for the Singapore team.
Tax Benefits and the 30% Ruling for Highly Skilled Migrants
For the two sales representatives hired locally, the company applied for the 30% ruling through the Netherlands tax authority (Belastingdienst). This ruling allows an employer to pay up to 30% of the employee’s gross salary tax-free, as compensation for extraterritorial costs. The company qualified because the employees were recruited from outside the Netherlands. the provider assisted with the application by providing the employment contract and payroll records.
The ruling lasts for a maximum of five years and significantly reduces the effective tax cost for the company. The Singapore parent also benefits from the Dutch participation exemption, which exempts dividends and capital gains from the subsidiary from Dutch corporate tax, provided the parent holds at least 5% of the shares. These tax advantages were a major factor in the company’s decision to enter Europe through the Netherlands rather than through another EU member state.
Frequently asked questions
How long does remote Dutch BV formation take from Singapore?
A standard Dutch BV formation through a service provider like Intercompany Solutions takes 3 to 5 business days once all documents are complete. The process requires a power of attorney, notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax registrations, all handled remotely.
Can a Singapore company open a Dutch business bank account without a local director?
Yes, but banks have their own compliance procedures. A corporate service provider can assist with introduction letters and documentation. In this case, the account was opened within two weeks. The bank ultimately decides, not the formation agent.
What is the minimum share capital for a Dutch BV in 2026?
The minimum share capital for a Dutch BV is 1 euro. There is no minimum capital requirement for incorporation, which makes it accessible for startups and small SaaS companies.
Does a Singapore company need to move employees to the Netherlands?
No, the BV can be managed remotely. However, if the founder or key employees wish to relocate, the Netherlands offers residence permits for entrepreneurs and highly skilled migrants. A service provider can assist with the application.
What ongoing compliance does a Dutch BV need?
A Dutch BV must file annual accounts with the Chamber of Commerce, submit quarterly or monthly VAT returns (BTW), and handle payroll if it has employees. Many companies outsource these tasks to a corporate service provider to ensure compliance.