The Dutch American Friendship Treaty and Orientation Year Visa

A Transatlantic Bridge to New Beginnings

Imagine waking up in Amsterdam, biking along historic canals, running your own business, or launching your career—all while living in one of Europe’s most forward-thinking and livable countries. If you’re an American citizen, this dream might be more within reach than you think.

Thanks to the Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) and the Orientation Year Visa, the Netherlands offers U.S. nationals two unique and accessible pathways to live, work, and thrive in the heart of Europe. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a recent graduate, these programs can help you bypass the bureaucratic maze and set yourself up for a successful international chapter.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through both visa options, requirements, benefits, and the long-term opportunities they unlock.

1. The Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT)

What Is DAFT?

The Dutch American Friendship Treaty was signed in 1956 to promote trade and investment between the U.S. and the Netherlands. The treaty allows American citizens to live and work in the Netherlands by starting or continuing a business.

DAFT isn’t just another visa program—it’s a fast-track to European entrepreneurship.

Key Benefits of DAFT

• Low financial entry point: Only €4,500 investment required in a Dutch bank account.

• Family-friendly: Spouse/partner can also work; children can enroll in school.

• Quick processing: Often approved in under 90 days.

• Renewable & flexible: Renewable in 2-year increments.

• Path to citizenship: Opens doors to permanent residency or Dutch nationality after 5 years.

2. Who Qualifies for DAFT?

To qualify, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen.

• Plan to be self-employed or start a business in the Netherlands.

• Register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).

• Deposit at least €4,500 into a Dutch bank account as a financial “investment.”

• Hold Dutch health insurance.

• Have no serious criminal record.

You don’t need to prove that your business idea is revolutionary—just that it exists, and that you’re actively running it.

3. Application Timeline and Process

Step 1: Prepare documentation before arrival
Gather your U.S. passport, clean background check, proof of funds, business plan (optional but recommended), and a Dutch address (Airbnb or short-term lease can work).

Step 2: Enter the Netherlands
You can arrive on a tourist visa while applying for DAFT. You’ll be given a sticker in your passport called a “residence endorsement sticker,” allowing you to stay during processing.

Step 3: Open a Dutch bank account & deposit €4,500
Choose a Dutch bank like ABN Amro or ING. Make the deposit and get a bank statement.

Step 4: Register your business with KvK
You have 6 months after DAFT approval to complete this. Choose between sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) or other structures.

Step 5: Apply at IND (Immigration and Naturalization Service)
You’ll submit your application and pay a fee (about €350–€400). Processing takes up to 90 days but often less.

4. Life Under DAFT

Once approved, you can legally live and work as a self-employed person in the Netherlands. You’ll pay Dutch taxes, contribute to social security, and receive many of the same benefits as locals.

Many DAFT visa holders become freelancers, consultants, tech developers, or small business owners. Others use DAFT as a base to serve clients globally, while enjoying residency in Europe.

5. The Orientation Year Visa: For Recent Graduates

If you’ve earned a Master’s or PhD from a top-ranked university, the Netherlands welcomes you to start your career journey—no job offer required.

What is the Orientation Year Visa?

This residence permit allows international graduates to live and work in the Netherlands for one year while seeking employment or starting a business.

Orientation Year Eligibility Requirements

You must:

• Have graduated with a Master’s, Post-Master’s, or PhD within the past 3 years.

• Have studied at a top 200 globally ranked university (Times, QS, or Shanghai rankings).

• Show proof of financial self-sufficiency (approx. €1,300/month).

• Hold Dutch health insurance.

• Have no serious criminal background.

You do not need a job offer or employer sponsorship to apply.

6. Why Choose the Orientation Year Visa?

• Freedom to work or start a business: No work permit required.

• Bridge to long-term visas: Transition to highly skilled migrant or entrepreneur visa.

• Bring your family: Partners can also work; children can attend local schools.

• Try out life in Europe: A full year to explore, network, and build your future.

7. Comparing DAFT vs. Orientation Year Visa

8. Long-Term Pathways After DAFT or Orientation Year

Both permits are gateways—not dead ends. Here’s what they can lead to:

• Highly Skilled Migrant Permit: If you land a high-paying job with a Dutch company.

• Entrepreneur Permit: If your business scales or you gain Dutch clients.

• Permanent Residency: After 5 years of legal stay (with integration exam).

• Dutch Citizenship: After 5 years + language and civic integration.

9. Other Dutch Visa Options (If DAFT or Orientation Year Don’t Fit)

1. General Self-Employment Permit

For non-U.S. citizens or non-DAFT applicants. Must prove economic value to the Netherlands.

2. Artist Permit

For creatives working in music, film, performance, or visual arts with proof of funding.

3. Startup Visa

For tech-savvy innovators with a scalable business model and a Dutch “facilitator.”

4. Blue Card (EU-Wide)

For highly educated professionals earning over €5,000/month gross.

5. Family Reunification

For those joining a partner or family member already in the Netherlands.

10. Cost Breakdown & Budgeting Tips

Tip: Cities like Utrecht, Eindhoven, and Haarlem offer lower living costs than Amsterdam with excellent quality of life.

11. Real Stories from Americans Who Made the Move

Amanda: Freelance Copywriter in Utrecht

Amanda left NYC burnout behind and now works remotely while biking to cafes and traveling every month across the EU.

Jason & Megan: Startup Founders in Rotterdam

Using DAFT, this couple launched a sustainable packaging business, now employing locals and selling across Europe.

David: PhD Graduate in Delft

After finishing his doctorate, David used the Orientation Year Visa to find a role with a Dutch aerospace firm—he now has permanent residency.

12. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not securing Dutch health insurance in time

• Missing the 6-month business registration window under DAFT

• Underestimating language barriers

• Ignoring tax obligations as a freelancer

• Failing to register your Dutch address properly

3A Immigration Services Can Help You Get Started

Whether you’re a freelancer, recent graduate, or budding entrepreneur, navigating Dutch immigration rules can be complex. 3A Immigration Services offers personalized guidance, documentation support, and long-term planning strategies to make your move seamless and stress-free.

From business planning to family permits, we’re your partners in building a life—and a future—in the Netherlands. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward European residency.

Conclusion

The Netherlands isn’t just tulips and bicycles—it’s a strategic European hub with a business-friendly environment, high quality of life, and open pathways for U.S. citizens.

Through the Dutch American Friendship Treaty or the Orientation Year Visa, you can create your own opportunity to live, work, and thrive in the Netherlands. Whether you’re looking to grow a business, expand your career, or experience life abroad, the Dutch have made it refreshingly attainable.

Related and Source Information Articles

• Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) – IND Netherland

• Orientation Year Visa – IND Netherlands

• Startup Visa – Netherlands Enterprise Agency

• Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) Registration Guide

• Health Insurance in the Netherlands for Expats

BACK TO BLOG