Last updated 11/25/2025
As India’s economy continues to grow and globalize, an increasing number of Indian entrepreneurs and companies are expanding into Europe. Among the various entry points, the Netherlands has emerged as one of the most preferred destinations — offering a strategic location, reliable infrastructure, and a clear legal framework for doing business.
Whether you are an individual entrepreneur from India looking to start your own company or an Indian corporation establishing a European subsidiary, the Netherlands offers an efficient, transparent, and internationally connected environment to grow your operations.
1. Why the Netherlands Appeals to Indian Entrepreneurs
The Netherlands is widely recognized as one of the easiest places to do business in Europe. It combines an open economy with a globally minded government that actively encourages international investment.
Key reasons Indian entrepreneurs choose the Netherlands:
- Access to the EU single market of 450+ million consumers
- Favorable taxation environment supported by the NL–India tax treaty
- A highly skilled, English-speaking workforce
- Ease of company setup and strong corporate governance standards
- Stable banking, legal, and regulatory systems
- Strategic proximity to key EU markets such as Germany, France, and Belgium
2. Setting Up a Dutch Company as an Indian Individual
For Indian entrepreneurs, the Dutch private limited company (Besloten Vennootschap – BV) is the most popular and practical legal form.
Why a BV?
- Limited liability — your personal assets are protected
- Can be incorporated with as little as €1 Share Capital
- Full foreign ownership allowed — no local partner required
- Recognized internationally as a professional business entity
Steps to Incorporate a BV:
- Define your business structure and shareholders (you can be the sole shareholder and director).
- Draft the Articles of Association through a Dutch notary.
- Register the BV with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).
- Obtain a Dutch business bank account.
- Register with the Dutch Tax Authority for VAT and corporate tax.
3. Establishing a Dutch Subsidiary as an Indian Company
For Indian corporations expanding internationally, setting up a Dutch subsidiary can provide a foothold into the European market.
A subsidiary is legally independent from the parent company in India but allows full control through shareholding.
Key benefits of a Dutch subsidiary:
- Direct access to the EU market under a compliant local entity
- Limited liability and clear separation from the parent company
- Beneficial tax treatment under the Netherlands-India tax treaty
- Eligibility to hire local and international staff, including intra-company transferees
- Simplified profit repatriation to India under reduced withholding rates
This model is especially common for Indian IT, logistics, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical firms establishing European operations.
4. The Netherlands-India Tax Treaty: Avoiding Double Taxation
The Netherlands and India have a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) designed to prevent income from being taxed twice — once in India and again in the Netherlands.
Key treaty advantages:
- Reduced withholding tax rates on dividends, interest, and royalties
- Tax credits to eliminate double taxation for residents of both countries
- Clear rules determining where income is taxable (residency and permanent establishment criteria)
- Encourages cross-border investment and efficient corporate structuring
This treaty is one of the main reasons Indian entrepreneurs and corporations choose the Netherlands for their European base. It provides predictability and protects against overlapping tax obligations.
While Bolder Launch does not provide tax advice, our team works closely with certified Dutch tax partners to ensure clients are structured efficiently and remain compliant.
5. Immigration and Visa Options for Indian Entrepreneurs
The Dutch immigration system offers several pathways for Indian entrepreneurs and professionals to work and reside in the Netherlands.
For individual entrepreneurs:
- Self-Employed Visa: For Those managing a Dutch BV and demonstrating economic value to the Netherlands.
- Startup Visa: For innovative Indian founders working with a recognized Dutch facilitator.
For Indian companies transferring staff:
- Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa: Enables Indian companies to transfer key personnel to their Dutch subsidiary or branch.
- Highly Skilled Migrant Visa: For hiring Indian specialists or managers under a recognized sponsorship.
Establishing a Dutch BV strengthens these visa applications by demonstrating local presence and genuine business activity.
6. Banking and Domiciliation
One of the most practical challenges for Indian entrepreneurs can be opening a Dutch bank account or establishing local management.
To simplify this process:
- Bolder Launch assists with business incorporation and operational setup.
- Our sister company, Bolder Corporate Services, provides domiciliation and directorship packages in Amsterdam — ensuring the company meets local substance and management requirements.
7. Business Culture and Language
English is widely spoken across the Netherlands, and Dutch professionals are known for their direct, transparent communication style. Indian entrepreneurs often find it easy to integrate and conduct business here, thanks to cultural openness and shared values of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Why Choose Bolder Launch
- Expert Local Knowledge
Located in the Netherlands, we have in-depth knowledge of Dutch laws, tax systems, and compliance requirements. Everything is handled in-house, so you never have to worry about third-party delays or miscommunications. - Focus on Your Core Business
Let us handle the complex tasks while you focus on growing your organization and driving success.
Conclusion
For Indian entrepreneurs and corporations, the Netherlands offers an unbeatable mix of accessibility, efficiency, and opportunity. The combination of a clear legal framework, strong banking system, and the Netherlands–India tax treaty makes it one of the smartest European gateways for long-term success.
At Bolder Launch, we specialize in helping Indian clients establish their Dutch presence with confidence — whether through a new BV setup, a European subsidiary, or strategic expansion support. From incorporation to ongoing compliance, we make international business simple, transparent, and secure
Please contact us at launch@bolderlaunch.com / corporate@bolderlaunch.com or +31 76 230 0011 to learn more about how we can help expand your business in the Netherlands. We are more than happy to assist with guidance!
The publication has been prepared for general guidance on matters of interest only and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining specific professional advice. No presentation or warranty (express or implied) is given as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this publication, and, to the extent permitted by law, Bolder Business Services (Netherlands) B.V., its members, employees and agents do not accept or assume any liability, responsibility or duty of care for any consequences of you or anyone else acting or refraining to act in reliance on the information contained in this publication or for any decision based on it.
