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Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa 2024: How to Apply and Requirements
The Netherlands offers a digital nomad visa that is not to be missed if working remotely from any destination is your thing.
Have you thought about living in the Netherlands while working remotely for clients or companies across the globe? If you are a digital nomad looking for a place to live while teleworking for foreign companies, the Netherlands digital nomad visa could be the ideal option for you. The Netherlands is known for offering a high quality of life, an open culture, and an approach to flexible working, which are key for those looking to telecommute from an environment that fosters both productivity and personal wellbeing. If you’re uncertain whether your profession qualifies you as a digital nomad, check out our post: What is a digital nomad and what do they do?
In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to obtain this visa, what are its requirements, benefits and why it could be an excellent option for your lifestyle as a digital nomad. Why stay confined within four walls when you can bring your office wherever you go? The Netherlands—home to historical figures like Anne Frank and iconic artists like Van Gogh—welcomes you with a setting where innovation and history blend to create a unique experience. Let’s make it happen!
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What is the Netherlands digital nomad visa and how does it work?
While the Netherlands doesn’t have a formal digital nomad visa, it does offer the MVV Visa, a residence permit for self-employed individuals who want to live in the country while working remotely for foreign clients or companies. The visa specifically targets people who wish to live in the Netherlands while working online for companies located outside the country. Introduced in response to the rising demand for flexible work options—particularly after remote work became standard for many due to the pandemic—the MVV Visa provides an appealing solution for digital nomads.
- Origin and legal backing. The Dutch government saw an opportunity to attract international talent to the country, supporting the idea of a modern and flexible working environment. The visa is based on immigration policies designed for professionals who wish to contribute to the country while maintaining their international work activities. Although in its early stages, this visa has gained popularity as a gateway to one of Europe’s most dynamic and advanced economies.
- Opportunities offered. The visa allows you to reside in the Netherlands and enjoy the local culture, high quality public services and the possibility to network with other digital nomads and entrepreneurs. The Netherlands has proven to be a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, making the country an ideal place for those seeking inspiration and collaboration in an international environment.
Features of the digital nomad visa in the Netherlands
The Netherlands digital nomad visa or freelancer visa offers several attractive benefits for remote workers. For example, the possibility to live in a country with an advanced infrastructure, both in terms of connectivity and public services.
The cost of this process may vary depending on the type of visa and the specific circumstances of each applicant. Generally, the process involves administrative fees and possible additional costs for documentation or legal services. We recommend that you check directly with the official Dutch immigration websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees.
It’s also essential to consider that certain factors, like the applicant’s nationality, can impact the overall cost of the process. Here’s an overview of the key features of this visa:
| Long-term stay | The visa offers an initial stay of up to one year, with the possibility of renewal, depending on the applicant’s circumstances. |
| Allows remote work for foreign companies | One of the big advantages is that digital nomads can work for any foreign company or even for several clients, as long as they do not work directly for Dutch companies. |
| Access to essential services | Holders of this visa have access to basic public services, such as health care, which in the Netherlands is of high quality and internationally recognized. |
| Mobility within the European Union | Although the digital nomad visa does not allow you to work in other EU countries, it does facilitate mobility within the Schengen area. This means that you can travel in other Schengen countries for 90 days every six months without needing to apply for additional visas. |
| Opportunity to live in an innovative country | The Netherlands is known for its focus on innovation, technology and sustainability. Living in an environment that promotes creativity and collaborative work can be very beneficial for digital nomads looking for a stimulating environment. |
General requirements for applying for a Netherlands visa
If you are considering applying for a digital nomad visa in the Netherlands, you should be aware that you must meet certain requirements to ensure eligibility. Here are the key criteria to help you kickstart the application process:
- Proof of stable income: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient income to support themselves while living in the Netherlands. This usually involves providing proof of a stable monthly income, which varies depending on the type of visa and government arrangements.
- Solid business plan: You’ll need to show that you’re financially self-sufficient and that your work contributes to the country’s economic development. This documentation is essential, as the visa prohibits working for local companies within the Netherlands.
- Valid medical insurance: Applicants must have medical insurance that covers the entirety of their stay in the country. This insurance must be international, to ensure that digital nomads are covered for any eventuality.
- Criminal record: A clean criminal record certificate is required, proving that the applicant has not committed serious crimes that could put the security of the country at risk.
- Valid passport: You must have a passport that is valid for the duration of your requested stay in the Netherlands.
- Ability to work remotely: You must demonstrate that you can carry out your work from anywhere in the world, meaning you do not need to be physically present in your home country or at your employer’s headquarters.
Documentation to be submitted
The visa application requires submitting several essential documents to confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria. Each document serves to verify your ability to work remotely in the Netherlands. Key documents you’ll need to gather include proof of identity, evidence of your financial status, and documentation of your working relationship with foreign companies. Here’s a detailed checklist to help you prepare your application smoothly.
| Completed application form | The first step is to fill in the official visa application form. This document can be downloaded from the official website of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). |
| Valid passport | A copy of the passport is mandatory and the passport must be valid for longer than the time requested for the visa. |
| Proof of income | You will need to provide proof that you have a stable and sufficient income to support yourself during your stay. |
| Business plan | You must submit a plan detailing your economic activity, including how your work aligns with the interests of the Netherlands. |
| Chamber of Commerce registration | You will have to register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel or KvK), which formalizes your self-employed status in the country. |
| Medical insurance | Proof of international health insurance covering the entire period of your stay in the Netherlands. |
| Criminal record certificate | You must provide a recent certificate proving that you do not have a serious criminal record. |
Where to apply for the digital nomad visa in the Netherlands?
The visa application process can be done online via the official website of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). Alternatively, applications can also be submitted at Dutch embassies and consulates, which is especially helpful if you’re currently outside the Netherlands.
The main Dutch consulates in cities such as London, New York, Buenos Aires and Sydney offer services for digital nomads, facilitating processing without the need to travel directly to the Netherlands prior to visa approval.
Where can you find personalized advice?
The visa application process for freelancers in the Netherlands can be complex, so it is advisable to seek personalized advice. Specialized consultants and agencies assist freelancers with the legal and financial aspects of the process, making relocation smoother. Many of these services also provide online support and personalized consultations through video calls, offering flexibility and expert advice tailored to your needs.
- Expat Center Netherlands. This center offers advice in English and Dutch, as well as personalized services for those seeking guidance on immigration procedures.
- Visa Solutions Netherlands. A consultancy specializing in immigration issues, providing legal advice on obtaining visas, including the visa for digital nomads.
- Nomad Visa Netherlands. A company that focuses on helping digital nomads apply for this visa, offering guidance in several languages and specialized services in each part of the process.
Frequently asked questions when applying for a Netherlands digital nomad visa
This visa mainly targets remote workers who do not need to attach themselves to a company within the Netherlands. It is ideal for freelancers and digital entrepreneurs as long as they are self-employed.
The digital nomad visa in the Netherlands has an initial duration of one year. At the end of that time, you can apply for a renewal depending on your situation and the policies in place at the time. Each renewal must be justified with updated documentation, demonstrating that you continue to meet the requirements.
One of the essential requirements is to demonstrate a stable income that allows you to pay for your stay in the Netherlands without resorting to local employment. Although the Dutch government does not set an exact figure for digital nomads, you must generally show that your monthly income is sufficient to cover your accommodation, food, and other basic expenses.
Yes, health insurance is compulsory for the duration of your stay in the Netherlands. The Dutch health care system is of high quality, but costs can be high if you do not have adequate insurance. Make sure you have coverage for emergencies, medical consultations, and hospitalization, either through international insurance or by purchasing local insurance when you arrive in the country.
The processing time varies depending on the volume of applications and whether you have submitted all the documentation correctly from the start. Generally speaking, the process can take between four and eight weeks. It is important to be patient and make sure you meet all the requirements from the beginning to avoid unnecessary delays.
No, you do not need to speak Dutch to apply for the visa, as it is designed for international workers. However, we highly recommend a good command of English, as people conduct many everyday transactions and communications in English, especially in large cities.
