The DAFT Pilot Magic remains beyond April 1st 2026
- Apr 1
- 1 min read
The DAFT Pilot remains as a streamlined standard for U.S. and Japanese entrepreneurs relocating to the Netherlands.
From Pilot to Ongoing Procedure
Originally set to end the 1st of April 2026, the DAFT pilot has become an indefinite active process until the IND announces otherwise. The IND has not given an explicit announcement about the extension. However, the IND approval notices confirm that the “Treaty Applications” (for US and Japanese citizens) gives applicants approval upfront as long as they meet the general conditions for residency, for example, that the applicant does not pose a threat to public order or national security. It allows a 6 month period to register their company, make the deposit of 4,500 euro and obtain the certified balance sheet.
The pilot is exclusive to first time DAFT applicants residing and registered outside the Netherlands. It is not applicable to applicants changing from a different residency permit to a DAFT, those types of applicants will still need to meet all requirements.
If the entrepreneur fails to meet the business requirements within six months, the residence permit may be revoked (retroactively)
Global Leap Group supports your complete DAFT visa process: immigration, business incorporation, Dutch banking, tax planning, housing, family/school integration. Connecting all the dots for US expats relocating to the Netherlands.
Comments