The independent entrepreneur's permit: the application in a nutshell

Migrants who wish to work in the Netherlands on a self-employed basis may apply for a residence permit for this purpose. However, strict rules apply to it, as a company is assessed on the basis of a 'points system'. This system is used to check whether the activities to be carried out will contribute to the Dutch economy. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Rijksdienst Voor Ondernemend Nederland - RVO) carries out this assessment and advises the IND on the merits of an application. It is therefore important that, should you wish to apply for this residence permit, you prepare your application fully.

Conditions

The most important conditions at a glance:

• With your business plan you acquire sufficient points for a positive advice. The point-based system comprises the following categories:
  • personal experience (maximum 100 points; 30 required for positive advice)
  • the business plan (maximum 100 points; 30 required for positive advice)
  • the added value for the Netherlands (maximum 100 points; 30 required for positive advice). PLEASE NOTE: 30 points will automatically be awared once you acquire 45 points in both other categories.
• You meet all the requirements to be able to practice your profession or business. You have all relevant permits.
• You can demonstrate that you will earn sufficient income as a self-employed entrepreneur. This can be demonstrated in your business plan, among other things.

If you are a national of Japan, the United States, or Turkey, other conditions will apply to you.

Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Permit validity period

The validity of this permit is for a maximum of 2 years.

The application procedure

Mynta Law can prepare and process the application on your behalf. The application procedure is in most cases as follows:

Step 1: Choosing the right application

Mynta Law helps you to quickly select the most appropriate request. This means that we determine which type of residence permit is the most suitable in your situation. We also assess whether you need a provisional residence permit (also called MVV), or whether you can apply for a residence permit without an MVV.

Step 2: Submit the request and pay costs

The application is submitted in writing. In the application form you can indicate from which IND office you would like to collect your residence document once your application has been approved.

Step 3: The IND assesses the application and makes a decision

The IND checks whether you meet all the conditions and then requests advice from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).

Although the IND normally has to make a decision within 90 days, this period may be extended by a maximum of 6 months, based on the advice of RVO.

If the IND rejects your application, we will of course inform you about your rights and about the possibilities to challenge the decision.

Step 4: Completing the procedure

Once the application has been granted, you can pick up your residence document at the IND office you chose in step 2. If you have applied for an entry visa, you will also now be able to collect it. Finally, you may need to register with your municipality (City Hall). Mynta Law will assist you in all these practical matters.

Which documents do we need?

In order to be able to assess whether you are eligible for the residence permit, we need at least the following documents:

• A copy of your passport (all pages with stamps or visas).
• Your current residence permit (if you have one).
• Your CV.
• A copy of any diplomas you have obtained.
• All currently available information regarding the (to be established) company; for example, a business plan.

It is possible that we will require more documents from you, depending on your specific situation.

Still have questions?

Feel free to ask your lawyer any questions you may have. If you are not yet a client and have questions, please feel free to contact us by phone (+31702051160) or ask your question via the contact form.