Netherlands–Japan Entrepreneur Visa
The Netherlands offers a relatively accessible residence permit route for Japanese nationals who want to start a business in the country, based on the long-standing Netherlands–Japan bilateral relationship. This route is often compared to simplified self-employment schemes such as the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT), although it is specifically designed for Japanese entrepreneurs
Overview
Guide for Brazilian-Japanese Entrepreneurs
Benefits of the Netherlands–Japan entrepreneur visa
Compared to standard self-employed residence permits, Japanese applicants benefit from:
Simplified admission requirements
Faster processing in many cases
Lower evidentiary burden compared to points-based applications
Easier pathway to business establishment in the Netherlands
Family members allowed to work freely in the Netherlands
Spouses and dependents are typically granted full access to the Dutch labor market without work restrictions.
For Brazilian-Japanese individuals—especially those holding Japanese nationality or eligible under Japanese immigration status—this pathway can provide a more straightforward alternative compared to standard Dutch self-employed visa procedures.
Who can apply for the Netherlands–Japan entrepreneur residence permit?
This residence permit is generally available to:
- Japanese nationals living in Japan or abroad (including Brazil)
- Entrepreneurs with Japanese citizenship planning to start a business in the Netherlands
- Brazilian-Japanese individuals who hold a Japanese passport or qualify as Japanese nationals for immigration purposes
Applicants from non-Japanese countries are typically subject to a strict points-based assessment, requiring proof that their business significantly benefits the Dutch economy.
Jurisdictions
Requirements
American citizenship without prior criminal convictions and antecent form
At least €4,500 investment
The amount of €4,500 is available in your Dutch business bank account at the application stage. The entrepreneur is allowed to use the money for legitimate business expenses such as rent, services, or supplies. The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) may assess whether the business is viable and actively contributing to economic activity in the Netherlands.
Partners and children
The DAFT residence permit allows U.S. entrepreneurs to bring their spouse or long-term partner and children under 18 to the Netherlands. Family members receive residence permits, and the spouse or partner can work freely, either in paid employment or self-employment.
Sole proprietorship
Curabitur aliquet quam id dui posuere blandit. Cras ultricies ligula sed magna dictum porta.
Access to Health Care
Full access to the Dutch healthcare system. They will be required to purchase Dutch national health insurance (basisverzekering), which covers essential medical care and services.
Jurisdictions
“Priscilla is an extremely humane, responsible, and committed professional. For those seeking objective, supportive, and clear legal advice, Lex Braxis is the answer”.
— M. J
Get Started
Start with an initial consultation
This is a 20 minute call to better understand your needs and provide you guidance on the next steps!