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Europe
Netherlands
📍 Amsterdam 💱 EUR 🗣 Dutch
One of Europe's most internationally-minded economies. The DAFT treaty offers a uniquely accessible self-employment route for US citizens; the Highly Skilled Migrant program is among the EU's strongest for tech and engineering talent.
Available visas
2 visa pathways for Netherlands
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Freelance Netherlands
DAFT
A self-employment carve-out from a 1956 treaty. US citizens only, €4,500 capital, two-year start renewable to five, and a clean line to Dutch permanent residency at year five.
Min. monthly income
€0/mo
Processing time
60–90 days
Initial duration
2 years initial, renewable to 5 years
Cost
€1500
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Work Netherlands
Highly Skilled Migrant
One of the EU's strongest sponsored work visa programs. Employer-sponsored, fast 2-4 week processing, generous 30% ruling tax benefit (20 months at 30% tax-free), direct path to Dutch permanent residency in 5 years, and full spouse work rights automatic on family inclusion.
Min. monthly income
€5,331/mo
Processing time
2-4 weeks (fast track for recognized sponsors)
Initial duration
Up to 5 years (matching employment contract)
Cost
€380
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