Start-up vs Self-employed: which Dutch visa is right for you?
Two entrepreneur routes: the Start-up visa for an innovative business with a facilitator, and the Self-Employed permit assessed on a points-based business plan.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) (Start-up) | Residence permit for self-employed person / freelancer (zelfstandig ondernemer) (Self-employed) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | For ambitious entrepreneurs launching an innovative startup with a Dutch government-approved facilitator. | For entrepreneurs and freelancers running a business that serves an essential Dutch economic interest. |
| Government cost | ~€405 (2025) | ~€405 (2025) |
| Processing time | ~90 days (legal maximum) | ~90 days (legal maximum) |
| Length of stay | 1 year (to develop the business) | Up to 2 years (renewable) |
| Where to apply | Filed with the IND | Filed with the IND (RVO scores the business) |
| Work rights | Self-employment in the registered innovative startup | Self-employment in your own registered business |
| Points-tested | No | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | A one-year launch route; you typically switch to the self-employed permit afterwards, which counts toward PR. | Continuous self-employed residence counts toward permanent residence after 5 years. |
Which is right for you?
Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) (Start-up)
For ambitious entrepreneurs launching an innovative startup with a Dutch government-approved facilitator.
Full Start-up guide →Residence permit for self-employed person / freelancer (zelfstandig ondernemer) (Self-employed)
For entrepreneurs and freelancers running a business that serves an essential Dutch economic interest.
Full Self-employed guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Start-up or Self-employed?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) (Start-up) is the lowest at ~€405 (2025). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Start-up or Self-employed?
Indicatively Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) (Start-up) is the quickest at ~90 days (legal maximum). Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between Start-up and Self-employed?
Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) (Start-up) is for for ambitious entrepreneurs launching an innovative startup with a Dutch government-approved facilitator. Residence permit for self-employed person / freelancer (zelfstandig ondernemer) (Self-employed) is for for entrepreneurs and freelancers running a business that serves an essential Dutch economic interest.