Step 1: Choose your structure
Decide on your structure before you go to the notary. The main choice is between a single BV and a holding structure (a holding company plus an operating company). We strongly advise you to start with a holding structure at incorporation. Over the long term, a holding structure has considerable tax and liability benefits. The notary draws up a separate deed of incorporation for each BV.
Step 2: Prepare the deed of incorporation
Contact a civil notary, online or traditional. The notary needs your full name and address, the company name you propose and the purpose of the company (the business activities). Add the initial share capital and the shareholder details.
Step 3: Sign the deed of incorporation
You sign the deed in person at the notary, or through a power of attorney. Bring a valid ID (passport or Dutch ID card). The signing usually takes 30–60 minutes.
Step 4: KVK registration
After the signing, the notary registers the BV with the KVK (Chamber of Commerce). That costs €85.15. You receive your KVK number within 1–3 working days. You need that number for invoicing, for bank accounts and for all official correspondence.
Plan the bank account early: see what Dutch banks check for a business account and which documents you need.
Step 5: Open a business bank account
With your KVK number you can open a business bank account. Dutch options include the large traditional banks and online banks. Online banks often ask that the directors and owners live in the European Economic Area (EEA). Traditional banks accept foreign-owned companies after a more extensive check. The bank decides whether it accepts the account and how long its checks take. A complete file helps.
Step 6: Register with the Tax Authority
Register your BV with the Tax Authority (Belastingdienst) for corporate tax (Vpb) and payroll tax (loonheffing). As DGA (a director who owns 5% or more of the shares, alone or with a partner), you must pay yourself at least the customary salary (€58,000 in 2026). Then set up a monthly payroll with payslips.
Step 7: Set up your administration
Set up a separate bookkeeping system. Online bookkeeping software with a bank link is a popular Dutch option. Agree with your accountant on quarterly or yearly accounting.
How long does it take?
| Step | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Deed and KVK registration, by power of attorney | Usually within one week once all documents are complete |
| Bank account opening | Depends on the bank’s checks |
Do you want to set up a Dutch BV from abroad? See setting up a BV in the Netherlands for the costs, the steps and the timeline. We arrange the notary and the KVK registration for you.
Further reading
You can read more in Incorporating a BV as a Doctor or Medical Specialist 2026 and Incorporating a Holding BV. See also Incorporating a BV as an IT Consultant.