It might surprise you that a country like the Netherlands has not yet introduced the trendsetting digital nomad visa. Yes, you read it right. Unfortunately, there is no specific Netherlands digital nomad visa at the moment. But, there are other viable options to work remotely in this European country. Many digital nomads eagerly await the Netherlands government to launch the digital nomad visa and live a remarkable life in one of the most advanced nations in Europe.
What other options do digital nomads have to work in the Netherlands?
Digital nomads can grab this undeniable opportunity to register as independent workers in the Netherlands through the long-stay visa, also called MVV Visa or self-employment visa. A self-employment visa is a Dutch residence permit that grants digital nomads to work independently and legally in the country.
Applicants/citizens from European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland can work in the country as freelancers or self-employed professionals without a work permit. Their travel ID will allow them to live and work in the Netherlands. And if the applicant/citizen is outside of an EU, EEA, or Switzerland, they will need a resident permit.
There are 3 primary documents a digital nomad — outside of EU/EEA nations or Switzerland—needs to move to the Netherlands:
- Work permit
- Residence permit
- Long-term visa
Please note that the applicant may need all 3 documents or a combination of them depending on their country and skills. And an EU/EEA or Swiss national does not need any of these documents. As a digital nomad or self-employed person, you must pay taxes and adhere to the tax regulations.
What are the general requirements for Self-Employment Visa?
There are certain conditions every applicant is supposed to meet to acquire a Netherlands self-employment visa:
- Valid passport or travel documents
- Register with the Chamber of Commerce
- License to practice your business or profession
- Proof of income from your business or work
- Proof of travel insurance
- Proof of purpose of stay: employment contract for work, marriage certificate for family reunification
- Medical test for tuberculosis within three months of your arrival
- Clean criminal record
In addition, you must be aware of the point-based system assessed by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). The system measures your personal experience, business plan, and value added to the Netherlands.
The score totals 300 points, and the applicant must get at least 30 from each section, summing up 90 points. You may also need to take and pass the civic integration examination that currently costs EUR 150. This exam basically tests your knowledge of the Dutch language and culture.
How to apply for a Long-Stay Visa?
You can apply for a long-stay visa in two ways:
- In person at the Dutch embassy or consulate
- Through a host or sponsor (family member, employer, etc.) in the Netherlands on your behalf
When applying through your host in the Netherlands, your purpose of stay must be either study, work, or marriage or family reunification. And if you’re applying yourself at an embassy or consulate, the purposes of your stay must be for investment, independent entrepreneur intention, start-up, or orientation year.