StartDock Startup Visa Program
Where can I find more information about the startup visa and residence permit?
The RVO provides the final assessment for startups to obtain their visa from the IND. Please check the RVO and IND website for more information about the startup visa and residence permit.
What does it take to get accepted into the StartDock startup Visa Program?
Our application process consist of two steps. The first is an online questionnaire in which you answer questions about you and your startup, including uploads of your resume and draft step-by-step plan. After we receive the initial application fee, we will provide you with a comprehensive feedback report and a final decision within three weeks. Sometimes we invite you for an interview to discuss outstanding questions. We review your application by looking at the business itself on the one hand, and you as a person on the other. With regards to the business plan, we consider to what extent the idea is something new or innovative for the Dutch market specifically and if it has the potential to scale. When it comes to you as a person, we look at your professional and entrepreneurial background, what you’ve achieved so far in moving your business activities forward and your personal ambitions.
In what phase should my startup be?
Preferably in the seed phase. Ideally, you have a functioning prototype, minimum viable product (MVP) or conducted pre-sales.
How much money should I have?
We ask you to prove that you can provide at least €22,000, either on your personal bank account or on the company account. This is to cover the required amount for the IND as well as the €500 monthly payments for the programme.
Do I have to register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce before I come to The Netherlands?
No, you need to sign a declaration stating that you intend to register within six weeks after your arrival in the Netherlands. If you do not register within 6 weeks, your visa can be withdrawn.
Is it possible to get a discount on the fee?
It is not possible to receive a discount with the Startup Visa Facilitator Programme. The €500,- is a fixed price.
What are the next steps in the process when my step-by-step plan is approved after the feedback rounds?
After comprehensive feedback rounds for your step-by-step plan and we think you are ready for the next step, your application will be submitted to the IND via the relevant Dutch embassy. A positive recommendation from the RvO is necessary in order for the IND to make a final decision (within a period of 90 days). Once you’ve arrived in the Netherlands, you will: register at the KvK (Dutch Chamber of Commerce) be connected to the right partners in the Dutch startup ecosystem receive one year of individual coaching flex workspace If you think you are eligible for applying for a startup visa with StartDock as facilitator, then apply through the form.
What are the crucial aspects to focus on when developing a business plan for a startup in the Netherlands?
When continuing to work on the business plan, we advise you to emphasis the following points:
- Level of innovativeness
- Market traction gathered in the Dutch economy (sales, launching customers, partnerships, Letters of intent)
- A validated value proposition and business model
- Sufficient financial means Market research (surveys, testimonials, partnerships etc.) and an analysis of the competition
A step-by-step business plan including: a description of why your product or service is innovative, a description of which activities you as a starting entrepreneur will take in the first year to grow your business in the Netherlands, the structure of the organisation, assigned roles and tasks (especially your role as an entrepreneur within the company), the legal form of the company, division of shares, and make sure to always draw conclusions!
Where can I find the conditions for obtaining a startup visa and residence permit in the Netherlands?
When you want to apply for a startup visa and therefore a residence permit in the Netherlands, there are several conditions that apply. An overview of the startup visa conditions can be found here, while the general conditions can be found here. There are also conditions that apply to you as well as your facilitator. Please make sure to read through the conditions listed on the officials page before applying.