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
Japanese 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.
Partners and children
The DAFT residence permit allows Japanese 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
Setting up a small business includes working as a freelancer in the Netherlands. It’s more tax efficient if you expect € 100,000 in annual profits or more. Unfortuanately, we do not help clients that want to apply via the BV route.
Access to Health Care
Full access to the Dutch healthcare system. You will be required to purchase Dutch national health insurance (basisverzekering), which covers essential medical care and services.
Jurisdictions
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