ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Roadmap: establishing a bv in the Netherlands in 2025

Table of contents

Through this roadmap, we explain step by step how to set up a bv in the Netherlands in 2025. Read more about it here.

Establishing a besloten vennootschap (bv) in the Netherlands is a popular choice for entrepreneurs who want to limit their liability and seek a professional appearance. In this article we explain step by step how to establish a bv in 2025.

Why choose a bv?

Before you start, it is good to know why a bv is interesting. A bv offers limited liability, which means your private assets are protected. In addition, you can gain tax advantages, especially with higher profits. It is also a form of enterprise that inspires confidence among customers and investors.

Step 1: Determine whether a bv suits your situation

The first step is to determine whether a bv is the right legal form for your business. A besloten vennootschap is especially suitable if you:

want limited liability;
are looking for a professional image;
are looking for investors or cooperation partners;
expect to achieve higher profits.

Are you in doubt? We would be happy to help you with a no-obligation consultation. In this, we will think with you about a possible holding structure.

Step 2: Choose a company name

Your bv needs an unique name. Check through the Trade Register of the Chamber of Commerce (in Dutch “Kamer van Koophandel”) whether your desired company name is already in use. Make sure the name is not too similar to existing names and complies with the rules, such as no misleading or prohibited terms.

Step 3: Draft the statutes

The statutes are your bv's ground rules. In it, you document, for example:

What the purpose of the bv is;
How the shares are distributed;
How decisions are made within the company.

A notary draws up the statutes. Discuss your wishes carefully with the notary so that the statutes are in line with your business operations.

Step 4: Arrange a notarised deed of incorporation

You cannot incorporate a bv without a notary. The notary prepares a deed of incorporation that includes your statutes. This is a mandatory document to officially establish the besloten vennootschap. Make sure you provide the notary with the following information:

your company name;
address details;
details of the founders and shareholders;
a minimum initial capital of € 0.01.

Step 5: Register with the Chamber of Commerce

Once the notary has drawn up the deed, you must register the bv with the Chamber of Commerce. The notary often takes care of this, but you can also do it yourself. After registration, you will receive a CoC number and your company will automatically be registered with the Tax Office.

Step 6: Open a business bank account

A business bank account is essential for professional administration. It is important to keep all business transactions separate from your private expenses. Many banks ask for a copy of the registration with the Chamber of Commerce and the deed of incorporation.

Step 7: Arrange your tax obligations

As director-major shareholder (DMS) of a bv, you have to deal with different tax rules than with a sole proprietorship. Among other things, you have to:

If applicable payroll taxes on your salary (DMS salary);
Pay corporate income tax (vpb) on the profits of the bv;
File VAT returns if you are liable for VAT.

Our team will be happy to help you keep your tax obligations clear.

Step 8: Ensure good business administration

Correct business administration is not only required by law, but also indispensable for the success of your business. Make sure you have a clear overview of the bv's income and expenses and that tax returns are done correctly.

Need help establishing your bv?

Establishing a bv involves many steps. At <Belastingadviseur Eindhoven, we make sure you do not miss anything and advise you on the best approach, tailored to your situation. Please contact us for a no-obligation consultation.