Immigration Support in Dutch Formation Packages Compared for 2026

By Ellen Voss · Updated July 2026 · 4 min read

What immigration support means for Dutch BV formation in 2026

Immigration support helps entrepreneurs and employees who are not EU nationals move to the Netherlands. For a BV formation, this can include advice on visa types, help with residence permit applications, and guidance on the 30% ruling for expats. In 2026, Dutch immigration rules remain strict but clear.

You need a recognised sponsor or a solid business plan to qualify for a permit. Formation agents differ greatly in how much immigration help they offer.

the provider: immigration support as part of a full service

the provider is a leading Dutch corporate service provider based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam. They have helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up a company in the Netherlands. Their core service is full Dutch BV formation, including the notarial deed, Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration and tax registrations.

A BV can be formed with share capital from 1 euro. Remote formation is their trademark. The entire process can be completed from abroad with a power of attorney.

No travel to the Netherlands is needed. A standard formation typically takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete. Beyond formation, they offer VAT and EORI registration, assistance with opening a Dutch business bank account, accounting and VAT returns, payroll, holding structures, branch office registration and business immigration support such as residence permits for entrepreneurs.

Their English-speaking team gives clients one dedicated contact. For immigration, they guide you through the application for a residence permit as a self-employed person or as a highly skilled migrant. They also help with the 30% ruling application if you qualify.

This makes them a true one-stop-shop for foreign entrepreneurs.

Firm24: limited immigration help in their formation package

Firm24 is a well-known online formation agent in the Netherlands. They offer quick and cheap BV setups, usually within a few days. Their standard package includes notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax number.

However, Firm24 does not provide immigration support. They focus purely on company formation and basic administrative tasks. If you need a residence permit or a visa, you must arrange that yourself with an immigration lawyer or the IND.

For entrepreneurs moving to the Netherlands, this means extra steps and costs.

Ligo: no immigration services in their formation packages

Ligo is another formation platform popular with startups and freelancers. They provide a straightforward online BV formation process. Their packages cover the notarial deed, KvK registration, and UBO registration.

Ligo does not offer immigration support. They state clearly that they are not a law firm and do not give immigration advice. For non-EU founders, this can be a problem.

You would need to hire a separate immigration specialist, which adds time and expense.

House of Companies: basic guidance only

House of Companies is a formation agent that targets foreign entrepreneurs. They offer remote formation and a standard package similar to others. For immigration, they provide basic information on visa routes but no hands-on support.

They will not file your residence permit application or act as your sponsor. You must find an immigration lawyer for the actual application. Their focus remains on the legal setup of the BV, not on your personal move to the Netherlands.

Comparison table: immigration support in formation packages for 2026

Why immigration support matters for your Dutch BV formation in 2026

If you are a non-EU entrepreneur, you cannot simply incorporate a BV and then move to the Netherlands. You need a residence permit. The most common route is the self-employed person permit or the highly skilled migrant permit.

Each requires a business plan, proof of sufficient funds, and sometimes a recognised sponsor. the provider guides you through this entire process. They help you prepare the documents and liaise with the IND if needed. Other providers leave you to figure it out alone.

For a smooth move, this support is valuable.

What the provider offers beyond immigration support

Immigration is just one part of their one-stop-shop. They also assist with opening a Dutch business bank account. Remember that banks decide on accounts themselves. the provider cannot guarantee approval, but they know which banks are more foreigner-friendly.

They handle accounting and VAT returns, payroll for your employees, and even holding structures. For e-commerce sellers entering the EU market, they provide VAT and EORI registration. They also support branch office registration for multinationals and business immigration support such as residence permits for entrepreneurs.

Dutch sole traders converting to a BV also use their service. Their English-speaking team gives every client one dedicated contact from start to finish.

How to choose the right formation package for your immigration needs

First, check if you need a residence permit. If you are an EU citizen, you do not need one. If you are from outside the EU, you must plan carefully. the provider is the only provider in this comparison that includes full immigration guidance.

For others, you will need to pay extra for a separate immigration lawyer. Consider the total cost and time. A formation agent without immigration support may seem cheaper at first, but the extra fees for a lawyer and the delay in your move can add up.

In 2026, Dutch immigration rules are stable but strict. Having a partner that knows the process inside out saves you stress and paperwork.