This "Startup Visa Explained" course provides a comprehensive overview of the key information pre- and during applying for a Startup Visa in The Netherlands.

The Startup Visa makes it possible for ambitious and innovative entrepreneurs to obtain a residence permit for the Netherlands. The application process consists of multiple steps, outlined in detail in the course.

This course is available to anyone considering enrolling or already enrolled in support programmes by WorldStartup on the Changemaker Platform.

This course includes:

• Information for preparation and criteria for Startup Visa application;
• Pitch deck review and feedback;
• Evaluation and recommendation for startup support programmes by WorldStartup as a facilitator (incl. approval/rejection for a recommendation letter for Startup Visa);
• Information for the duration of the application process;
• Information for post Startup Visa approval/rejection.
  

Check criteria

Each founder interested in relocating to The Netherlands needs to review and work through the steps to meet the criteria for the Dutch Startup Visa.

Join programme & receive programme agreement

If you are an early-stage startup we recommend you join our Basecamp incubator programme, which will help you create all necessary elements for your first pitch deck.

If you have a successful business abroad and are interested in expanding to Europe through The Netherlands, we advice you to join our post-incubator programme Altitude, which will help you create a tailored pitch deck for your new market expansion.

After you joined the programme, you will receive a programme agreement, that you need for your Startup Visa application.

The support programmes will help you create a high quality pitch deck, but are not mandatory at this stage. When applying for a Startup Visa, it is mandatory to be guided by a facilitator. You can use the programme agreement to proof you are supported by WorldStartup.

Upload pitch deck

After checking if your pitch deck meets all criteria, you can upload it in the course. You will receive feedback and advice by mail.

Recommendation Letter

After a positive advice and joining a suitable support programme, you will receive a Recommendation Letter by WorldStartup as your Startup Visa facilitator. (In practice entrepreneurs who joined Basecamp usually apply for their Startup Visa between their 5th and 10th month of the programme while entrepreneurs who joined Altitude apply as early as their 2nd month of the programme.)

Please note: there is no guarantee that if WorldStartup gives a positive advice, your Startup Visa application will be automatically accepted.

Start your application process

With the Recommendation Letter and the support programme agreement, you can begin your Startup Visa application process.

You have full ownership and responsibility of the application process.

WorldStartup responds to the information that needs to be provided by the Visa facilitator. If you have additional questions or want someone to handle your Startup Visa application process, we are happy to introduce you to one of our partners.

Your Startup Visa

Your Startup Visa, if approved, will be granted for an initial period of 1 year, following which your progress will be assessed and the 'Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland' RVO (a.k.a. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency) will determine whether you are eligible to have your Visa renewed for additional 2 years. Once your Visa is renewed it will be transformed into a self-employed Visa.