Freelancing in the Netherlands as an expat: the simple starter guide
Are you an expat in the Netherlands who wants to work for yourself? Good news: freelancing here is very doable, even if your Dutch isn't strong yet. This guide gives you the big picture in plain English, and links to deeper articles for each step.
A freelancer in the Netherlands is called a ZZP'er (zelfstandige zonder personeel — self-employed without staff).
Step 1 — Register with the KvK
You start by registering with the Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel, KvK). You get a KvK number, and shortly after, a VAT number (btw-id) from the tax office. You need to be a resident with a citizen service number (BSN) to register.
Step 2 — Understand VAT (btw)
As a freelancer you usually charge 21% VAT to clients and pass it on to the tax office. You can reclaim the VAT on your business costs. Most freelancers file a VAT return every quarter. See our VAT guide for the full picture.
Step 3 — Send correct invoices
Your invoice must meet Dutch rules: your details, your VAT number, a unique number, and the VAT. You can invoice in English, but keep the required fields. See what a Dutch invoice must include.
Step 4 — Know your tax
You pay income tax on your profit, but you also get benefits like the self-employed deduction and the SME profit exemption. How much you keep is explained in the freelancer tax guide.
Step 5 — Keep your admin tidy
Keep your invoices, receipts and bank statements together, and track your VAT. This makes tax time painless. See the bookkeeping guide.
A few expat-specific tips
- You can work in English, but official letters from the tax office come in Dutch. A translation tool or your accountant helps.
- Check the 30% ruling and other schemes with a tax adviser — expat situations can differ.
- A Dutch bookkeeper who is used to expats can save you a lot of stress.
How BoekBrug helps
With BoekBrug you make correct invoices, scan your receipts, track your VAT per quarter, and share everything with your accountant — all in one place, and you can use it in English. Your data stays yours: export or delete it anytime (GDPR-proof).
Get a feel for it with the free tools below.
Important
This is a general overview, not tax or legal advice. Expat situations vary. For your case, check the Belastingdienst, the KvK, or a bookkeeper.