Foreign businesses that want to operate compliantly in the Netherlands and within the European Union should obtain a VAT number in the Netherlands. Often, this is one of the first steps in the process when it comes to requirements that directly affect invoicing and tax compliance, no matter if a foreign company is setting up a Dutch BV, expanding an existing foreign business, or planning to invoice clients within the European Union.

This 2026 guide explains how to get a VAT number in the Netherlands, which businesses need one, what the Dutch tax authorities expect from foreign companies, and the most common mistakes in applications, leading to failure. If you are looking for practical information about the process, requirements, timelines, and risks, this guide will come in handy.

What is a VAT Number in the Netherlands?

A Dutch VAT number is the official tax identification number that is used by businesses for tax purposes. It allows a business to charge VAT, reclaim VAT on expenses, and report VAT to the Dutch tax authorities. A VAT number is issued by the Belastingdienst, not by the business registry (KVK). Foreign businesses should know that this number must be displayed on invoices and contracts, and used in EU VAT validation systems, if applicable.

If a company wants to correctly invoice Dutch and EU clients, file VAT returns, apply VAT exemptions or reverse-charge mechanisms, and comply with Dutch and EU tax law, then a VAT id number in the Netherlands is required. Incorrect or missing VAT registration can block invoicing or delay payments.

Besides, foreign entrepreneurs often confuse VAT registration with company registration. A KVK number is a business registration number issued by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. A VAT number is a tax identifier used by the Belastingdienst. Keep in mind that a company can have a KVK number without yet having a VAT number, but not vice versa.

Who Needs a VAT Number in the Netherlands?

Many foreign-owned companies need to register for a VAT number in the Netherlands, although there are some exceptions. The following entities typically require a Dutch VAT number:

Foreign-owned Dutch BVs: Any Dutch BV that carries out taxable business activities requires VAT registration, no matter the nationality of its directors or shareholders.
Freelancers operating from the Netherlands: Self-employed professionals working from the Netherlands may need VAT registration, depending on their services and client base.
E-commerce businesses: Online sellers that ship goods to or from the Netherlands often require VAT registration because of EU VAT rules, use of a warehouse, or import thresholds.
Import and export businesses: A company that imports goods into the EU via the Netherlands or exports within the EU needs a VAT registration number in the Netherlands in most cases.
Digital service providers: Foreign companies that supply digital services to EU customers may require Dutch VAT registration, depending on the structure and place-of-supply regulations.

Companies that are not sure if they need to register for a Dutch VAT number can use consultancy firms such as Beyond Solutions to explore if this is the case. Often, these firms also offer corporate services. If the right steps are taken from the beginning, entrepreneurs make sure that they comply with Dutch and EU regulations when it comes to operating in the territory correctly.

Requirements to Get a Dutch VAT Number

To apply for a VAT number Netherlands, the tax authorities assess whether a business has sufficient economic activity. Applicants must have either a Dutch-registered company (KVK) or a foreign entity with taxable activities in the Netherlands. Furthermore, the Belastingdienst expects clearly defined commercial activities that fall within the scope of Dutch VAT.

Another requirement that is often asked for is a Dutch correspondence address. The address must be legitimate and traceable. While a Dutch bank account is not always mandatory during the application process, it is frequently required for VAT refunds, ongoing tax payments, and the credibility of the operation. Therefore, it is recommended to open a Dutch bank account before applying for a Dutch VAT number, if possible.

Foreign businesses may be asked to provide proof of operations, such as contracts or client agreements, invoices or forecasts, and business plans or a detailed description of activities. Lack of documentation is the most common reason for delays or rejections, so ensure to have everything well documented before the application for a VAT number in the Netherlands.

How to Apply for a VAT Number in the Netherlands

The process of applying for a Dutch VAT number follows structured steps.

Step 1: Company registration
Dutch entities must first be registered with the KVK. Foreign companies may apply directly if they already have taxable Dutch activities.

Step 2: Tax authority registration
After registering with the KVK, the business is reported to the Belastingdienst for tax purposes.

Step 3: VAT assessment
The tax authorities assess business activities, economic substance, and VAT liability, amongst others. It is common that foreign-owned companies receive additional questions or documentation requests.

Step 4: VAT activation
Once approved, the business receives the VAT identification number in the Netherlands, which can be used for invoicing and VAT filings.

For correct invoicing, it is important to understand the VAT number format in the Netherlands. Therefore, this guide will focus on explaining this in the next section.

Paperwork for applying for a Dutch VAT number

Dutch VAT Number Format Explained

There is a standard structure that applies to the majority of Dutch companies registered for VAT. A standard Netherlands VAT identification number format looks like this:

NL + 9 digits + B + 2 digits (example: NL123456789B01)

This is the meaning of each part of the format:

NL: Country code for the Netherlands
9 digits: Unique taxpayer number
B: Indicates a VAT registration
2 digits: Suffix identifies the VAT entity

The last two digits tell apart the VAT registration from other tax identifiers and can sometimes be different, such as multiple VAT registrations or administrative adjustments.

A Netherlands VAT number format is for sole proprietorships and consists of the citizen service number (BSN), followed by the letter B and two digits. For other legal structures, the RSIN number is followed by the letter B and two digits. There is no NL in front of the VAT tax number, compared to the VAT ID. A VAT tax number Netherlands example would look like this:

BSN/RSIN number + B + 2 digits (example: 112234567B01)

While invoicing, even minor formatting errors can lead to rejection of invoices. The following are common mistakes that are being made:

Confusing VAT tax number with VAT ID, and vice versa
Using an incorrect digit count
Missing the “NL” country prefix
Applying outdated or inactive VAT numbers
Entering a KVK number instead of the VAT number

It is therefore crucial to find a VAT number in the Netherlands before invoicing.

How to Check a VAT Number in the Netherlands

A Netherlands VAT number check is essential when invoicing clients or applying VAT exemptions. There are official verification tools that can be consulted through EU VAT validation systems and Dutch tax authority databasis. If a Dutch VAT number confirms that the VAT number is active, then the check is successful and valid for transactions within the European Union.

When companies fail to verify VAT numbers, it can invalidate reverse-charge arrangements. It can also result in denied VAT deductions and increased risks for audits. Therefore, each business that plans to invoice in the Netherlands or the EU should apply a VAT number check before invoicing.

How Long Does It Take to Get a VAT Number?

Depending on the business structure, the timeline to obtain a VAT number in the Netherlands varies. For Dutch BVs with standard activities, the application process usually takes up to 2 to 4 weeks. Foreign entities or complex business structures may take up to 4 to 8 weeks, or longer. It is therefore crucial to take this into account when planning your business activities in the Netherlands or the European Union.

Some factors can delay approval, such as incomplete documentation, unclear business activities, not having a Dutch address, or foreign directors without local substance. Beyond Consultancy can assist in making sure that the correct documents are used during the application for a VAT number in the Netherlands, in order to avoid delays for approval and to ensure smooth sailing when setting up a Dutch business entity.

Common Problems When Applying for a VAT Number

Foreign businesses often encounter problems when applying for a VAT number in the Netherlands. Missing or inconsistent documentation or business activities that are insufficient or unclear may cause delays in the process. Some entities do not have a Dutch address, which is a requirement when applying for a Dutch VAT number, most of the time.

There can also be a mismatch between the company incorporation and the VAT application, or the Belastingdienst may want to perform additional scrutiny of foreign directors. All of these can cause delays or even rejection when applying for a VAT number. Some of these can be avoided by applying correctly from step 1. If you are unsure about this, it is recommended to ask for assistance from a consultancy firm.

Do You Need a VAT Number to Invoice Clients?

Whether or not companies need a VAT number to invoice clients depends on the transaction. For domestic clients in the Netherlands, most taxable supplies indeed require a valid VAT number in the Netherlands. For EU clients, VAT registration is usually mandatory for intra-EU supplies and reverse-charge transactions.

Companies with non-EU clients may need a VAT number depending on the type of service and whether VAT is charged or exempt. Companies that expand into the Netherlands often underestimate how quickly VAT registrations is a necessity. Therefore, it is essential to plan the corporate structure of a Dutch business carefully.

VAT Registration Through a Consultancy vs Doing It Yourself

Foreign entrepreneurs can apply for VAT registration independently, but there are some differences to take into account between registering by themselves or through a consultancy. If entrepreneurs choose to do it by themselves, the timelines tend to be longer. There is also a higher risk of errors in documentation, which can result in rejection or delay. Besides, direct communication with the Belastingdienst is required. Considering different time zones and distance, this can sometimes be a burden.

Therefore, most foreign companies that plan on opening a Dutch entity use a consultancy firm for VAT registration in the Netherlands. This firm will make sure that the documentation is structured, which leads to faster processing of the application. Besides, it reduces compliance risks, and there is a single point of contact, which makes it easier to get a grasp on the situation. Keep in mind that incorrect VAT registration can affect invoicing and long-term tax compliance. Doing it right from the start is part of having a financially correct business setup in the Netherlands.

How Beyond Consultancy Helps With VAT Registration

Beyond Consultancy supports foreign businesses with VAT registration in the Netherlands as part of a broader company setup and compliance framework. Services offered by Beyond Consultancy are:

Support and coordination with the company registration
VAT application and follow-up
Alignment with accounting services
Invoicing and compliance guidance
Ongoing VAT obligations and compliance

Beyond’s integrated approach reduces risks for international founders and directors. Besides, Beyond Consultancy offers support if directors wish to relocate to the Netherlands through their company. If you are unsure how to apply for a VAT number in the Netherlands or whether your setup is compliant, Beyond Consultancy supports foreign businesses with VAT registration and ongoing compliance, amongst other services.

Contact us for professional support

FAQs About Dutch VAT Numbers

How long does VAT registration take?

Dutch entities usually need to count on 2 to 4 weeks to complete the VAT registration. Foreign companies may receive their VAT numbers later, up to 8 weeks or longer.

Can a foreign company get a VAT number?

Yes, if a foreign company has taxable activities in the Netherlands, it can obtain a Dutch VAT number.

Do I need a Dutch address?

Most of the time, companies indeed need a Dutch address to obtain a VAT number in the Netherlands. It is part of the credibility of a company and also serves for correspondence with the tax authorities.

Can I invoice without a VAT number?

In many cases, it is not possible to invoice without a VAT number. Invoicing without a required VAT number is considered non-compliant and should be avoided.

Is VAT registration mandatory for online businesses?

VAT registration in the Netherlands is also mandatory for online businesses, most of the time. Particularly, e-commerce and digital services operating in the European Union are often required to register for VAT purposes.

How to Get a VAT Number in the Netherlands (2026)