Population
GDP (per capital)
Visa-Free Countries
GDP (purchasing power parity)
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Immigration to the Netherlands Through Investment
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Investment-based immigration offers a strategic path for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the Dutch market. While the Netherlands ended its Golden Visa program in January 2024 due to limited impact, alternative routes—such as the startup visa and treaty-based options—now cater to investors who bring innovation and economic value. These changes reflect a shift toward sustainable, contribution-driven immigration.
- Main Industries
- Agriculture and Horticulture
- International Trade and Export
- Logistics and Transportation
- Banking and Financial Services
- Chemical and Petrochemical Industry
- Information and Communication Technology
- Tourism and Hospitality Services
- Creative and Design Industries
UTC+1
41,526 km2
Euro
Amsterdam
Dutch (official)
Frisian (co-official in Friesland), English
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Abolition of the Investor Visa Program
- In a significant policy shift, the Dutch government has moved away from capital-based migration in favor of more economically engaged models of investment.
- Policy Change: As of April 17, 2024, the Netherlands officially ended its residency-by-investment scheme, which previously required a capital injection of at least €1.25 million into the Dutch economy.
- Reasoning: The decision was driven by the program’s limited popularity and minimal long-term economic returns. The government determined that the scheme failed to attract the type or volume of investment needed to justify its continuation.
- Implications:
- Aligns with broader EU efforts to tighten investment migration policies.
- Signals a shift from passive capital investment to active entrepreneurial contribution.
- Prospective investors are now encouraged to explore alternative routes that emphasize innovation, job creation, and sustainable impact.
Current Investment-Based Immigration Pathways
Current Investment-Based Immigration Pathways
With the termination of the traditional investor visa, the Netherlands has shifted focus toward more dynamic and innovation-driven entry routes. In 2025, aspiring entrepreneurs and investors can still access residence opportunities through targeted programs that prioritize economic contribution, originality, and bilateral agreements.
Startup Visa
The Netherlands offers a Startup Visa to non-EU/EEA entrepreneurs aiming to establish innovative businesses.
- Eligibility:
- Collaboration with a recognized Dutch facilitator (mentor) is mandatory.
- Applicants must present an innovative business idea.
- Financial self-sufficiency is required, typically demonstrated by showing sufficient funds to support oneself for a year.
- Process:
- The visa grants a one-year residence permit to develop the startup.
- After one year, if the business shows viability, entrepreneurs can apply for a self-employed residence permit to continue operations in the Netherlands.
DAFT Visa (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty)
Under the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, U.S. citizens can apply for a residence permit to start a business in the Netherlands.
- Overview:
- Applicants must invest a minimum of €4,500 in a Dutch business bank account.
- The visa is initially granted for two years and can be renewed.
- No Dutch language proficiency is required for the initial application.
- Benefits:
- Simplified application process compared to other self-employment visas.
- Access to Dutch healthcare and education systems.
- Opportunity to expand business operations within the EU.
Comparison with Other European Countries
Comparison with Other European Countries
In recent years, the European Union has taken a firmer stance on investor citizenship programs. A landmark decision by the European Court of Justice in April 2025 declared Malta’s “golden passport” scheme illegal, emphasizing that EU citizenship should not be commodified. This ruling effectively ended the last remaining investor citizenship program within the EU.
While citizenship-by-investment programs are being phased out, several EU countries continue to offer residency-by-investment options, though with notable reforms:
Portugal
The Golden Visa program has shifted focus away from real estate investments. As of 2025, eligible investments include:
- A minimum of €500,000 in qualified investment or venture capital funds.
- Creation of at least 10 full-time jobs in Portugal.
- A capital transfer of €500,000 or more into scientific or technological research.
- A minimum contribution of €250,000 towards cultural or heritage preservation.
Spain
The Golden Visa program was officially terminated on April 3, 2025, primarily due to concerns over housing market inflation. Previously, it required a minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate. Prospective investors are now directed towards alternative visas, such as the Entrepreneur Visa, which focuses on innovative business ventures and job creation.
In contrast, the Netherlands has adopted a more selective approach, emphasizing active economic contribution over passive investment. Programs like the Startup Visa and the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) Visa prioritize innovation, entrepreneurship, and bilateral cooperation, aligning with the EU’s broader objectives of sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Conclusion
The Netherlands has clearly shifted toward a more selective and innovation-driven approach to investment immigration. With the discontinuation of its investor visa and the emphasis on entrepreneurial routes like the Startup Visa and DAFT, the country now prioritizes long-term economic value over passive capital inflows. These changes reflect broader European trends aimed at fostering sustainable growth and protecting the integrity of residency systems.
Looking ahead, further adjustments are likely as the Dutch government continues to align immigration policy with labor market needs, technological advancement, and social integration goals. For forward-thinking investors and entrepreneurs, staying informed and adaptable will be key to seizing emerging opportunities in the Dutch landscape.
FAQ about Netherlands Residency
1. Can I still obtain Dutch residency by investing a large sum of money?
No. As of April 17, 2024, the Netherlands officially abolished its investor visa program, which previously required a €1.25 million investment. Alternative routes now focus on entrepreneurship and innovation.
2. What are the main investment-based immigration options currently available?
The primary options include the Startup Visa for innovative entrepreneurs and the DAFT visa for U.S. citizens. Both require a business plan, proof of financial means, and active involvement in a Dutch-based business.
3. Is the DAFT visa only for large-scale investors?
No. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty allows U.S. citizens to start a business in the Netherlands with a relatively low investment—typically around €4,500—making it accessible to small business owners.
4. Can a Startup Visa lead to permanent residence?
Potentially, yes. If the business succeeds and meets income and integration criteria, the initial one-year permit can transition into a standard self-employed residence permit, which may eventually qualify for permanent residency.
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