What do I need to register and prepare before applying as self-employed in the Netherlands?

Before your application can succeed, your business must be properly set up. That means registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) and holding any professional or sector-specific permits your activity requires.

Your business plan is central to the assessment and should clearly describe your operations, market and financial projections so the RVO can judge the added value to the Netherlands. If you work as a freelancer, you generally need to show you already have commissions or clients based in the Netherlands. Foreign documents usually need to be legalised and translated.