DAFT Visa (Dutch American Friendship Treaty): Your Opportunity to Live and Work in the Netherlands
More and more American expats I speak with dream about building a life in the Netherlands. A new environment, a different culture, a better work-life balance… but then comes the big question: how do you actually make that move legally?
For Americans, there’s a very interesting option:
the DAFT visa (Dutch American Friendship Treaty).
And honestly, it’s one of the most accessible ways to relocate to the Netherlands as an entrepreneur.
What is the DAFT visa?
The DAFT agreement is a treaty between the Netherlands and the United States. It allows American citizens to live and work in the Netherlands as self-employed entrepreneurs.
Unlike many other visa routes, which involve strict point systems or employer sponsorships, DAFT is relatively straightforward. If you meet the requirements, you can set up your own business and build your life here.
What are the main requirements?
To qualify for a DAFT visa, you generally need to:
Be a U.S. citizen
Register a business in the Netherlands (usually a sole proprietorship or BV)
Invest a minimum of €4,500 into your Dutch business
Show that your business is active and legitimate
That €4,500 is not a fee, but an investment that needs to remain in your business account.
In practice, the process is often quite manageable compared to other immigration routes.
What kind of business can you start?
One of the biggest advantages of DAFT is flexibility.
You can start a wide range of businesses, such as consulting, freelancing, online businesses, creative work, or advisory services. There is no strict requirement for innovation or job creation, which makes this route much more accessible than other entrepreneurial visas.”
How long does the visa last?
The DAFT residence permit is usually granted for two years initially.
After that, it can be extended as long as your business is still active and you continue to meet the requirements. After five years, you may also be eligible for permanent residency or Dutch citizenship.
What many people underestimate
While the DAFT visa itself is relatively straightforward, the real challenge often starts after approval.
You’re moving to a completely new country, often without local income, without a Dutch rental history, and without an established network. Especially in competitive markets like Amsterdam, this can make finding housing significantly more difficult.
Landlords are not just looking at your visa status, they are assessing risk. And that means your financial story and how you present yourself becomes key.
How to strengthen your position in the housing market
From experience, these factors can make a significant difference:
A clear and professionally presented financial overview
Proof of savings and assets
A strong personal introduction
Being prepared to act quickly when opportunities arise
In some cases, the flexibility to pay several months of rent upfront
It’s not just about meeting requirements, it’s about building trust.
Why working with the right guidance matters
Many DAFT applicants underestimate how competitive the Dutch housing market is. Timing, positioning, and access to the right opportunities can make the difference between months of searching and securing a home relatively quickly.
At Great Expatation, we support many international clients, including DAFT applicants, with navigating this process. From strategy and positioning to accessing (pre-)market opportunities and handling communication with agents and landlords, we make sure you’re one step ahead.
Final thoughts
The DAFT visa is an incredible opportunity if you’re looking to relocate from the U.S. to the Netherlands. It gives you the freedom to build your own business while creating a life here.
But success doesn’t just come from having the right visa. It comes from preparation, strategy, and knowing how the market works.
If you’re considering the DAFT route and want to understand how to approach both your move and your housing search in the smartest way, feel free to reach out.
We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Planning to move to the Netherlands under the DAFT visa?
Let’s make sure you’re fully prepared — from strategy to securing your home.
Register via our platform to get started.
