Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur)
For ambitious entrepreneurs launching an innovative startup with a Dutch government-approved facilitator.
The Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) is a Dutch business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€405 (2025)) and processing time (~90 days (legal maximum)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) is for
For ambitious entrepreneurs launching an innovative startup with a Dutch government-approved facilitator.
A one-year launch route; you typically switch to the self-employed permit afterwards, which counts toward PR.
Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) - eligibility criteria
- Work with a reliable, experienced facilitator approved by the IND/RVO
- Product or service that is genuinely innovative
- A concrete, step-by-step business plan
- Registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK)
- Sufficient means to support yourself for a year
Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) (Netherlands) is ~€405 (2025), with an indicative processing time of ~90 days (legal maximum). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IND (Netherlands).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Filed with the IND |
| Length of stay | 1 year (to develop the business) |
| Work rights | Self-employment in the registered innovative startup |
| Study rights | Study allowed |
| Government fee | ~€405 (2025) |
| Processing time | ~90 days (legal maximum) |
| Route to PR | A one-year launch route; you typically switch to the self-employed permit afterwards, which counts toward PR. |
Pathway & next steps
A one-year launch route; you typically switch to the self-employed permit afterwards, which counts toward PR.
Many applicants also compare Self-employed · Residence permit for self-employed person / freelancer (zelfstandig ondernemer), Startup staff · Residence permit for essential start-up personnel, Zoekjaar · Residence permit for orientation year (zoekjaar highly educated persons). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Dutch route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) pitfalls we fix
Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) cost?
The Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) government fee is ~€405 (2025). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IND (Netherlands) before applying.
How long does the Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~90 days (legal maximum). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur) lead to permanent residence?
A one-year launch route; you typically switch to the self-employed permit afterwards, which counts toward PR.
Can I work on the Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur)?
Work rights: Self-employment in the registered innovative startup.
Who can apply for the Residence permit for start-up (innovative entrepreneur)?
For ambitious entrepreneurs launching an innovative startup with a Dutch government-approved facilitator.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Netherlands government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IND (Netherlands) - official Netherlands immigration authority