Expanding to Europe can seem like an intimidating task for anyone in America who wants to be able to open their company’s doors in Europe. Many founders ask me whether they will face legal/administrative barriers due to distance. Fortunately, it is possible for American citizens to register a company in the Netherlands without relocating, without having Dutch residency, and without having to interrupt their current business operations in the United States.
The Netherlands has made itself a very attractive place to do business for the global entrepreneur. The Netherlands is one of the most accessible European countries for international businesses. Their systems for remote incorporation/digital verification/structured compliance are very user-friendly for entrepreneurs who are still operating from their home country. I will discuss the process of establishing a business in the Netherlands for American business owners and how they can plan to ensure their long-term success as a European business owner.
Why American entrepreneurs are choosing the Netherlands for their European expansion
When founders in the USA consider Europe, they often want stability, clarity, and access to multiple markets at once. The Netherlands consistently appears on their shortlist for several practical reasons.
Many entrepreneurs tell me they choose the Netherlands because:
- Their legal system is predictable
- Administrative procedures are clearly defined
- English is widely used in business
- The country connects easily to the rest of Europe
- International ownership is fully allowed
Similarly, the Dutch government does not require American founders to live locally to operate a company. This flexibility removes one of the biggest concerns people have when they decide to register a company abroad.
Can You Register a Company Remotely While Living in the USA?
Yes, US residents can complete the full setup remotely in most cases. They can manage the entire process from the United States using digital identification, online document signing, and professional representation within the Netherlands.
From what I have seen, founders appreciate that they can:
- Complete identity checks through video calls
- Sign incorporation documents digitally
- Communicate with notaries remotely
- Receive registration confirmation online
In comparison to many other European jurisdictions, the Netherlands is far more open to remote incorporation. Still, preparation matters, and clean documentation helps avoid delays.
Choosing a Business Structure That Fits American Founders
Most US entrepreneurs choose the Dutch BV structure. This structure fits international operations well and aligns with expectations of banks, partners, and clients.
Reasons Americans prefer the BV structure
- Limited liability protection
- Professional reputation across Europe
- Flexible ownership rules
- Suitable for holding, trading, or service companies
- Clear governance structure
Although other options exist, the BV remains the most practical choice when Americans register a company in the Netherlands for cross-border operations.
Documents You Will Need Before Starting the Process
Preparation plays a major role in how quickly registration moves forward. While the list is manageable, gathering documents early reduces friction.
You typically need:
- A valid US passport
- Proof of residential address
- Proposed company name
- Shareholder and director details
- Description of business activities
- UBO information
Although the Netherlands allows remote processes, certain verifications still require accuracy. In spite of that, most American founders complete this step smoothly with proper guidance.
The Notary Step That Makes the Company Official
A Dutch notary is required to legally establish a BV. This step confirms your identity, finalizes company documents, and validates the articles of association.
The notary handles:
- Company incorporation deed
- Articles of association
- Director appointments
- Shareholder structure
Although Americans may worry about this step, it is commonly handled through video identification. It is still possible for the notary to require more clarification on certain elements of the company’s proposed business model; once this process is finished, your company is now legally ready to register your company to operate in multiple European countries.
Company registration in the Netherlands and registration with the Chamber of Commerce
Once your notary has completed the incorporation, your company information will then be sent to the Chamber of Commerce for a final approval process.This step completes the official Netherlands business registration.
You will receive:
- A Chamber of Commerce number
- Public listing in the trade register
- Confirmation of company existence
Although this happens quickly, the journey does not end here. Tax registration, banking, and compliance follow next.
Banking Challenges US Founders Should Expect
Opening a Dutch business bank account can take time, especially for founders living outside the EU. Dutch banks apply strict verification rules and often request extra information from US residents.
Banks may ask for:
- Proof of address
- Detailed business activity explanation
- Expected transaction volumes
- Client and supplier locations
In comparison to US banking, this process feels slower. However, once approved, operations become much smoother. Some founders use alternative financial platforms temporarily while waiting for final approval.
Tax Registration and Early Compliance Requirements
Once your company exists, Dutch tax authorities issue tax numbers. This includes corporate tax and, where applicable, VAT registration.
Authorities may ask follow-up questions about:
- Where services are delivered
- Where clients are located
- How revenue is generated
Although this can feel repetitive, it is standard practice. After this step, your Netherlands business registration is fully functional, allowing you to invoice clients across Europe.
Why Professional Support Matters for US Founders
Many Americans prefer not to manage everything alone. Language differences, time zones, and unfamiliar systems create unnecessary stress.
This is why some founders work with Firm NL, which provides local coordination, document handling, and compliance support. I have seen that having a trusted local partner helps founders avoid errors and maintain confidence during each stage.
Similarly, professionals ensure deadlines are met and communication with Dutch authorities stays clear.
Running Your Dutch Company While Living in the USA
American founders can manage their Dutch company entirely from the United States. Daily operations, client communication, and financial oversight can remain remote.
You can:
- Operate digital services
- Manage international trade
- Hire contractors or employees
- Invoice European clients
- Maintain compliance remotely
Although some businesses later open physical offices, many operate digitally for years. This flexibility makes it easier to register a company without disrupting existing US operations.
Growing Sales After Incorporation From the USA
Once the company is active, growth becomes the priority. I often see founders asking how to reach European clients efficiently while remaining in the USA.
This is where appointment setting services come into play. These services help American founders connect with Dutch and European prospects without building internal sales teams.
They typically support:
- Prospect outreach
- Meeting scheduling
- Lead qualification
- Calendar management
Similarly, founders who use these services often build momentum faster during their first year in Europe.
Planning Long-Term Compliance and Stability
Operating a Dutch company requires ongoing compliance. This includes:
- Annual financial statements
- Corporate tax filings
- VAT filings if applicable
- Updated UBO information
Although these responsibilities are mandatory, they are predictable. In the same way, many founders choose structured support so they can focus on strategy rather than paperwork.
Common Concerns American Founders Ask Me About
Here are questions I frequently hear:
- Do I need to move to the Netherlands? No
- Can I own 100 percent of the company? Yes
- Can I manage it from the USA? Yes
- Is remote incorporation allowed? Yes
- Is the BV structure suitable for US owners? Yes
Despite these clear answers, founders still benefit from guidance during setup to avoid delays.
Final Thoughts for American Entrepreneurs Considering the Netherlands
Overseas entrepreneurs are permitted to establish a company in the Netherlands. Numerous entrepreneurs from the United States have established successful companies there. The Dutch system allows for international owners to create a business through a remote incorporation process; as such, the Dutch have developed a system and process for international directors that satisfies American entrepreneurs’ still relatively new approach to creating companies remotely.
By using the right support, planning ahead, and getting the appropriate documentation in place before you intend to register your company in the Netherlands, you will have the ability to create a strong company presence in the European market while remaining in the United States. The companies that you create will not only provide credibility to your business but will also give you the ability to gain access to markets and build long-term stability in one of the many highly regarded business environments in Europe.