Last updated 09/31/2025
As China’s global influence continues to expand, more Chinese companies and investors are setting their sights on Europe— and the Netherlands has become one of the most attractive destinations for this strategic move.
Known for its strong infrastructure, business-friendly regulations, and favorable tax environment, the Netherlands offers Chinese entrepreneurs a reliable and efficient entry point into the European market.
This article explores why the Netherlands is increasingly popular among Chinese investors, how Chinese companies can establish a Dutch presence, and what key advantages — including tax and immigration — make it such an appealing hub.
The Netherlands: A Strategic Gateway to Europe
The Netherlands is consistently ranked among the world’s top locations for international business. Its central position in Europe, proximity to major markets, and highly developed logistics infrastructure (Rotterdam port, Schiphol Airport, and high-speed rail connections) make it an ideal base for European operations.
Chinese companies benefit from:
- Access to the EU single market of over 450 million consumers
- Strong trade relations with both China and Europe
- Stable political and legal environment
- Multilingual workforce and highly educated talent pool
Many global companies — including Huawei, Alibaba, and BYD — have already established European headquarters or distribution centers in the Netherlands.
Option 1: Setting Up a New Dutch Company from China
The most common way for Chinese entrepreneurs to start in the Netherlands is by incorporating a Dutch private limited company (Besloten Vennootschap or BV). A BV is widely recognized in international trade and offers limited liability protection, making it the preferred structure for both small and large businesses.
Main advantages of a BV structure:
- No minimum capital requirement (as little as €1 share capital)
- Limited liability protection for shareholders
- Professional corporate image for European partners and clients
- Easy to expand or register subsidiaries across the EU
Key steps to set up a Dutch BV from China:
- Company Name & Incorporation Documents
- You’ll need to select a company name and prepare incorporation documents,
- Shareholder & Director Requirements
- A Dutch BV can be founded with just one shareholder and one director. These roles can be held by foreign individuals or companies — meaning you as a Chinese entrepreneur can own and manage the BV without a Dutch partner.
- Minimum Share Capital
- The minimum capital requirement is just €0.01, making it highly accessible.
- Chamber of Commerce Registration (KvK)
- Once incorporated, the BV must be registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. This registration provides your company with a unique KvK number, which is essential for operating in the Netherlands.
- Dutch Business Bank Account
- A Dutch BV requires a business bank account. While Chinese entrepreneurs can apply directly with Dutch banks, the process can be complex without a local presence. In practice, many international clients open accounts with online banks or payment providers that issue Dutch IBAN accounts.
Option 2: Registering a Chinese Company in the Netherlands
If you already operate a company in China and want to expand into the Netherlands, you can register a branch office or a subsidiary.
- Branch Office
- A branch office is an extension of your Chinese company in the Netherlands. It’s not a separate legal entity — the Chinese parent company remains fully liable for all operations in the Netherlands. This is often chosen for representation, sales support, or market entry testing.
- Subsidiary
- A subsidiary is a fully independent Dutch company, owned by your Chinese parent company. This structure offers limited liability, better tax planning opportunities, and more credibility with European partners and clients.
Most Chinese companies prefer to establish a subsidiary BV because it provides more flexibility, independence, and long-term benefits compared to a branch.
Why the Netherlands is Attractive for Chinese Entrepreneurs
- Gateway to Europe: Direct access to EU markets with minimal barriers.
- A simpler incorporation process (no local partner required).
- Logistics & Infrastructure: Home to Rotterdam Port and Schiphol Airport — two of Europe’s largest logistics hubs.
- Tax Treaties: The Netherlands has a strong tax treaty network, including with China, reducing risks of double taxation.
- Business-Friendly Environment: Transparent regulations, skilled workforce, and English widely spoken in the business sector.
Visa & Immigration Options
For Chinese entrepreneurs, immigration is often just as important as company formation. The Netherlands offers several pathways that align with business ownership:
- ICT (Intra-Corporate Transfer) Visa: Ideal for Chinese companies that already operate in China and want to transfer key staff to a Dutch entity. By setting up a Dutch BV, you can bring over managers, specialists, or trainees under this scheme to strengthen your European presence.
- Highly Skilled Migrant Program: Allows Dutch-registered companies to hire qualified Chinese professionals with fast-track residence permits.
- Self-Employed Visa: For entrepreneurs who can demonstrate that their business brings an economic benefit to the Netherlands.
At Bolder Launch, we regularly assist Chinese entrepreneurs with the incorporation of their BV, which then serves as the foundation for a successful residence permit application.
Local Business Culture & Language Concerns
While English is widely spoken in Dutch business life, many Chinese entrepreneurs find that cultural and language differences can still be a barrier when starting a company abroad. Misunderstandings in legal, tax, or compliance matters can have costly consequences if communication is not clear.
This is where Bolder provides a unique advantage. Our team includes professionals who speak Mandarin and Cantonese, allowing you to communicate in your preferred language throughout the entire process. From incorporation to immigration and compliance, you can feel confident that nothing is lost in translation — and that you always have trusted advisors who understand both the Dutch and Chinese business environments.
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
Whether you want to set up a Dutch company from China or register your Chinese company in the Netherlands, the BV structure is the most effective and internationally recognized option. It gives you credibility, limited liability, and the ability to expand seamlessly within Europe.
At Bolder Launch, we help Chinese entrepreneurs navigate every step of the process — from BV incorporation and banking solutions to ongoing accounting, compliance, and payroll services. With our experience, you can establish your Dutch presence without unnecessary delays or complications, giving your business the strongest possible start in Europe.
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.
