Banking & Practical

Your VAT Number Timeline: From Application to First Invoice

Updated: 19 August 2026 Holdwise editorial team VAT number Registration Timeline

A standard Dutch company usually gets its VAT number automatically, within days to two weeks. For a foreign-owned company, the Tax Administration often does an extra review, which takes two to six weeks. You can invoice while you wait for the number. At Holdwise, we keep this answer up to date and change it when the rules change.

How long it takes

After the registration at the KVK (the Dutch trade register), the Tax Administration reviews the file. For standard Dutch companies, the VAT identification number is issued mostly automatically, within days to two weeks. For foreign-owned and cross-border companies, the Tax Administration often checks the activities, the address and the directors first. This usually takes two to six weeks. To get the number fast, send a complete and clear file from the start. Use a real address (see the registered office rules) and describe your activities in concrete terms. When the Tax Administration asks a question, answer on the same day.

Once you have your VAT number, check its status in VIES, the EU VAT number check.

The two VAT numbers

You put the VAT identification number (btw-id) on your invoices. Your customers check it in the EU validation system. You use the filing number only for your VAT returns. Business customers check your btw-id online, so they ask for it before their first order. They need it for the reverse-charge rules. See intra-EU supplies and the reverse charge.

You can import into the EU through the Netherlands and pay zero VAT at the border. See fiscal representation for non-EU importers. There you read about the Article 23 licence, the EORI number and the monthly work involved.

The bookkeeping can be handed over while you live abroad. On bookkeeping in the Netherlands you can read what you send, what is filed for you and what you get back.

Invoicing while you wait, and what comes next

Trading can start at incorporation. In practice, you invoice with VAT charged and add the number once you have it. Until then, you note “VAT number pending”. If a customer’s system requires it, you issue corrected invoices. Once the number is issued, you can register in order: EORI (days), article 23 (weeks), and the OSS registration for consumer sales: that system.

Free advice

Want our team to have a look?

We help you with import and export: VAT, customs numbers and licences. Tell us where you stand or what you are planning. You get free advice on your next step.

Part of Doing Business in the Netherlands, the complete 2026 guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I deduct VAT on costs made before I had the number? +

Yes. You can deduct the VAT on costs from the start-up phase in your first returns, including the formation costs. The invoices must be in the name of the BV. Keep every receipt from the very first day. You claim them all in the first return.

The Tax Administration asked about our foreign directors. Is that bad news? +

This is the standard review for international companies. The Tax Administration checks the facts before it issues the number. Answer quickly and completely, with documents about the address and the activities. Then one round of questions is usually enough.

When was this last checked? +

Reviewed on 19 August 2026. The two ways of processing and the timelines are current practice.

Sources Belastingdienst · KVK · wetten.overheid.nl Last updated: 19 August 2026