Dutch Japanese Trade Treaty Visa: Opportunities for Japanese Entrepreneurs

In the era of a continuously globalised economy, business owners ‘ cross-mobility is now recognized as an important tool for growth, technology and international cooperation. The Dutch Japanese Trade Treaty Visa provides a particularly purposeful route for starting a business in the Netherlands to those Japanese entrepreneurs wishing to relocate or expand business in Europe. Businesses like INLS (Immigration Netherlands Services) are establishing themselves as reliable consultants to handle this potential by specializing in law and providing specialized immigration assistance.

Let’s explore how Japanese entrepreneurs benefit from the Dutch-Japanese Trade Treaty, the specific advantages relative to standard self-employment permits, the eligibility criteria, procedural steps, and strategic considerations when partnering with a service provider like INLS.

The Dutch-Japanese Trade Treaty Visa

This special residence permit stems from a bilateral agreement between Japan and the Netherlands. It allows Japanese entrepreneurs to live and work in the Netherlands by starting or running a business without having to pass the usual Dutch points-based business test.

Under this scheme, the Dutch immigration service (IND) grants a two-year residence permit to qualifying Japanese entrepreneurs. INLS explains that, since April 2024, a pilot procedure lets applicants submit fewer documents upfront and provide proof of registration or investment within six months after approval.

Its attractiveness for the Japanese Business Owners 

Easy and quick procedures. Standard self-employment visas can take months and require extensive documentation. Under this treaty route, decisions are often issued within one to two months.

Minimum investments. The required investment is modest compared with many other routes, as low as €4,500 for a sole proprietorship.

Invitation to the family. Spouses and children may apply for residence under family reunification rules alongside the main applicant.

Permits for the renewable. The visa is valid for two years and can be renewed if business activities and investment obligations continue to be met.

The basic criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Hold Japanese nationality.

• Commit the required minimum investment (e.g. €4,500 for a sole proprietorship, 25% of paid-in capital for other entities).

• Register the business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK). Under the pilot, registration may be provided after initial approval but within six months.

• Prove the investment through bank statements or accounting records. INLS also offers bookkeeping and balance-sheet services, which they provide to DAFT Visa and Japanese treaty applicants alike.

• Submit a credible business plan showing realistic long-term potential.

Application process step by step 

1. Before the assessment. Work with INLS or another immigration specialist to evaluate eligibility, choose a legal form, and prepare documents such as your business plan and proof of funds.
2. Send to the IND. Send in your application, including identification, plan, and financial proof.
3. Limited consent. Under the pilot, some documentation may be deferred, but the IND will check registration and investment within six months.
4. Startups and relocations. Once approved, move to the Netherlands, register with local authorities, open a business bank account, and start trading.
5. Renewal. Before the two-year permit expires, submit updated records proving ongoing business operations and compliance.

Difference between the Dutch Visa and Standard Self-Employment Permits

• Business viability is not tested using RVO points.

• It is possible to submit some documents later rather than upfront.

• Lower minimum investment criteria.

• Faster decisions in practice.

• can be renewed after two years, and spouses and children can join.

This plain-text list shows the main advantages without a formal table.

Assisting Japanese Entrepreneurs: The INLS

INLS (Immigration Netherlands Services) is a Netherlands-based immigration and relocation firm with staff experienced inside the IND and Dutch municipalities. They help Japanese clients with:

• End-to-end guidance on the Dutch Japanese Trade Treaty visa application.

• Bookkeeping and balance-sheet preparation, essential for proving investment (also offered to DAFT Visa clients).

• Assistance with Chamber of Commerce registration, bank accounts, and local compliance.

• Relocation services, such as housing, municipal registration (BSN), and schooling support.

By combining legal, accounting, and relocation expertise, INLS makes the transition easier for entrepreneurs and their families.

Crucial Opportunities in the Netherlands

Getting access to Europe. A Dutch base gives Japanese entrepreneurs direct entry to EU markets, ports, and logistics networks.

Technological hub. The Netherlands is home to thriving technology, research, and start-up ecosystems. Japanese businesses can partner with Dutch firms, universities, or EU programs.

Management of the cost. The relatively low capital threshold allows testing the Dutch market before scaling.

Time to grow. Entrepreneurs can refine their company plan, establish networks, and investigate further visa alternatives like permanent residence or highly skilled migrant status within the two-year residency term.

Some Difficulties to think about

• Dedication on renewal. Even with a simplified initial process, failure to meet investment or registration obligations can jeopardize renewal.

• Validity of the business. The Dutch authorities expect realistic plans; a weak business case may still be rejected.

• Adopting locally. Entrepreneurs must understand the Dutch tax, labour, and legal systems.

• Risks of the funds and currency. Investments in euros must comply with Dutch banking and anti-money-laundering rules.

Some Useful Tips For The Candidates

1. Book an initial appointment with INLS or a similar expert.

2. By including financial projections and a market study, you can create a strong business plan.

3. Collect your important documents, like your passport, proof of funds, and certificate of good conduct.

4. For bookkeeping or balance sheets, hire an accountant as soon as possible.

5. Submit the application and track processing with your advisor.

6. Comply with the Dutch criteria and register your business quickly after the approval.

7. To ensure uninterrupted residence rights, be prepared early.

Conclusion

For Japanese entrepreneurs, the Dutch Japanese Trade Treaty Visa is a simple, easy way to prosper in the Netherlands and access the wider European market. This visa offers a real opportunity for innovative business founders through minimising the investment threshold and by making the procedures easy. 

Japanese business owners can really focus on creating a profitable company by coordinating with knowledgeable partners like INLS, which handles immigration, accounting, and relocation assistance. Strategic planning, compliance, and understanding Dutch business culture will help turn this visa into a springboard for long-term growth in Europe.