The Dutch Startup Visa has provided opportunities for non-European entrepreneurs to establish businesses in the Netherlands since its introduction in 2015. Designed to simplify the previously complicated process of obtaining a Self-Employed Visa, this initiative has led to the creation of numerous startups, some of which continue to operate successfully today. With increasing global interest in business expansion, this visa program has positioned the Netherlands as an attractive destination for founders looking to enter the European market.
When the Dutch Startup Visa was first introduced, it received mixed reactions, with some questioning its long-term impact on the Dutch startup ecosystem. Over time, however, the initiative has demonstrated its effectiveness, with approximately 1,300 founders securing visas in a decade. The requirement of having a facilitator, which was originally seen as a potential obstacle, has proven beneficial, as many facilitators provide additional support, including networking opportunities and funding. Compared to similar visa programs in other countries, this approach has made the Netherlands a favorable environment for early-stage entrepreneurs.
Why do entrepreneurs choose the Netherlands?
Many non-European entrepreneurs see the Netherlands as a strategic location for launching their businesses due to its economic stability and business-friendly policies. Denis Chernobaev, a Russian entrepreneur, moved to the Netherlands in 2022 through the Dutch Startup Visa program after seeking a more stable environment for his business and family. His decision was influenced by the presence of his brother, who had already relocated his startup operations from Helsinki to the Netherlands.
Chernobaev initially found the visa process challenging, but support from an acquaintance introduced him to Antler, a venture capital organization that also acts as a facilitator for the Dutch Startup Visa. After participating in Antler’s program, he secured funding for his startup, Getplace.io, and ultimately obtained residency.
How do facilitators assist in the process?
Facilitators such as Antler play a significant role in the Dutch Startup Visa framework by offering guidance and financial backing to selected entrepreneurs. The number of active facilitators has expanded from eight in 2015 to 48 in 2024, including organizations like Rockstart, TNW, and LUMO Labs.
Chernobaev highlighted the importance of having a facilitator for securing a visa more efficiently. He detailed his experience, stating that once he joined Antler’s program, the process became straightforward.
“I just collected a couple of documents, put them on Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Drive, sent them, and then I gave my biometrics, and in three months, I got the visa,” he said.
Scaling a business with hyper-location analytics
Chernobaev co-founded Getplace.io, a hyper-location analytics platform that assists businesses in selecting optimal locations for their operations. The idea stemmed from his experience at Dodo Pizza, where he developed an internal system for site selection. The platform helps businesses assess market potential and competitive positioning in various countries, including the UK, Qatar, and the US.
With over 300 clients across 10 countries, Getplace.io has experienced significant revenue growth, increasing from €10,000 in 2023 to €100,000 in 2024. The company aims to expand into Turkey, the UK, and the US in the coming years, with projected revenue reaching €400,000 by 2025.
Challenges and future outlook
While the Dutch Startup Visa has facilitated business growth, entrepreneurs face challenges such as high taxation and living costs in cities like Amsterdam. Despite these concerns, many still view the Netherlands as a competitive location for startups.
“The Dutch Startup Visa is the easiest visa and one of the straightforward ways to get here,” Chernobaev stated.
The Dutch Startup Visa program has successfully attracted international entrepreneurs, but its long-term sustainability will depend on the continued support of facilitators and the adaptability of policies to emerging business trends. As the global startup ecosystem evolves, further enhancements in visa conditions, funding opportunities, and integration support for new entrepreneurs may determine the program’s effectiveness in the coming years.
