How to Start a Dutch BV from Denmark

If you are running a business from Denmark and looking to expand into the European Union, incorporating a Dutch BV (Besloten Vennootschap) is a strategic move. The Netherlands offers a stable legal environment, an extensive tax treaty network, and a reputation for facilitating international trade. For founders based in Copenhagen, Aarhus, or anywhere in Denmark, the process does not require you to relocate or even visit the Netherlands.

With the right corporate services partner, you can establish a fully compliant Dutch subsidiary entirely remotely.

A corporate service provider like Intercompany Solutions can handle this entire process for you. Based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, they specialise in Dutch BV formation for foreign entrepreneurs.

Their team has assisted over 1,000 clients from more than 50 countries, offering a 100% remote incorporation service that typically completes in 3-5 business days. For Danish founders, this means you can have a Dutch BV registered, with a Dutch bank account and VAT number, without leaving your office in Denmark.

What is a Dutch BV and why choose it from Denmark?

A Dutch BV, or Besloten Vennootschap, is a private limited company.

It is the most common legal structure for small and medium-sized enterprises in the Netherlands. The key feature is limited liability: your personal assets are protected, and your liability is limited to the capital invested in the BV. This is crucial for Danish entrepreneurs who want to separate their Danish personal assets from their Dutch business operations. The Netherlands is a prime location for European expansion due to its extensive network of double taxation treaties.

This network prevents you from being taxed twice on the same income when operating across borders. For a Danish founder, this means your Danish and Dutch business activities can be structured efficiently, minimising tax friction.

The Dutch corporate income tax (CIT) rate is competitive: 19% on the first €200,000 of profit (as of 2026) and 25.8% on profits above that threshold.

Furthermore, the Netherlands is a hub for e-commerce, logistics, and holding companies. Its central location in Europe, combined with excellent infrastructure, makes it an ideal base for distributing goods or services to the rest of the EU. For Danish businesses, this provides a gateway to markets like Germany, France, and Belgium without the administrative burden of establishing a physical presence in each country. A Dutch BV gives you credibility and a local presence in a key EU economy.

Core mechanics: The step-by-step formation process

The process of forming a Dutch BV from Denmark is straightforward when you partner with a specialist like Intercompany Solutions.

1. Initial consultation and document collection: You will provide a certified copy of your passport, proof of address (e.g., a recent utility bill), and a description of your business activities. For Danish residents, a NemID or MitID may be required for identity verification, but Intercompany Solutions guides you through the specific requirements.
2. Drafting the deed of incorporation: A Dutch notary prepares the deed of incorporation (akte van oprichting). This document outlines the company’s name, purpose, share structure, and appointment of directors. Intercompany Solutions coordinates with the notary to ensure the deed meets all legal requirements.
3. Signing the deed: You can sign the deed remotely via a power of attorney (volmacht). This is a standard practice for international clients. The notary acts on your behalf, eliminating the need for a physical visit.
4. Registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK): Once the deed is signed, the notary registers your BV with the KvK. You will receive a KvK number and a RSIN (tax number) almost immediately.
5. VAT registration and EORI number: After KvK registration, your BV is registered for VAT (BTW) with the Dutch tax authority. If you plan to trade goods within the EU, an EORI number is also applied for. This is essential for customs clearance and cross-border trade.

The entire procedure is handled remotely, so you do not need to travel to the Netherlands. Here is how it works: Intercompany Solutions streamlines this process with fixed, transparent pricing.

Unlike traditional notaries or accountants who often charge hourly rates, they offer a package that covers all formation costs. This typically includes notary fees, KvK registration, and VAT application.

The total cost for a standard BV formation ranges from €1,500 to €2,500, depending on the complexity of your share structure and any additional services like a virtual office or bank account assistance.

The timeline is impressively fast. Most clients of firms like Intercompany Solutions complete the BV formation within one week. From the moment you submit your documents, the notary can often incorporate the BV in just 3-5 business days. This speed is a significant advantage for Danish entrepreneurs who want to start trading in the EU market quickly.

Variants and pricing models for your Dutch BV

When setting up a Dutch BV from Denmark, or even expanding from Scandinavia more broadly, you have several options depending on your business model and budget.

The core formation is just the beginning; you can tailor the setup to your specific needs. Standard BV Formation: This is the most common package for solo founders or small partnerships.

It includes the notary deed, KvK registration, and VAT application. As of 2026, the cost for this service with Intercompany Solutions is typically around €1,500. This package is ideal for e-commerce sellers, consultants, or digital nomads based in Denmark who need a simple, compliant EU entity. BV with Holding Structure: If you plan to own shares in other companies (e.g., a Danish holding company or a subsidiary in another EU country), you might opt for a holding BV structure.

This involves setting up a parent BV that owns the shares of your operational Dutch BV.

The cost for this is higher, usually in the range of €2,500 to €4,000, due to the additional notary work and share issuance. This structure is beneficial for tax optimisation and asset protection. Full-Service Package: For founders who want a complete solution, Intercompany Solutions offers a one-stop-shop package.

This includes the BV formation plus ongoing corporate services like bookkeeping, payroll, and tax compliance. Prices for these add-ons vary: bookkeeping starts at around €150 per month, while payroll services can be €50-€100 per employee per month.

This package is perfect for Danish entrepreneurs who want to focus on growth while leaving the administrative burden to experts.

It is worth noting that traditional competitors like Vistra or Intertrust may offer similar services, but often at a higher cost and with less transparency. Intercompany Solutions distinguishes itself with fixed pricing and a focus on remote, fast incorporation for international clients. For a Danish founder, this means no surprise fees and a clear timeline.

Practical tips for Danish founders

Starting a Dutch BV from Denmark is a manageable process, much like incorporating from other EU countries, but there are a few practical considerations to ensure success: Finally, keep your long-term goals in mind.

• Choose a unique company name: The name must be distinct and not infringe on existing trademarks. Intercompany Solutions can check name availability through the KvK database before incorporation.
• Understand your tax obligations: As a Dutch BV, you will need to file annual corporate income tax returns and VAT returns. The Netherlands has a territorial tax system for certain activities, but most BVs are subject to worldwide taxation. Consult with a tax advisor to understand how your Danish and Dutch activities interact.
• Open a Dutch business bank account: While not mandatory for incorporation, a Dutch bank account is essential for operations. Many Danish founders find this challenging due to strict EU banking regulations. Intercompany Solutions can assist with introductions to banks that specialise in international clients, though you may still need to provide additional documentation.
• Leverage the EU single market: Once your BV is registered, you can trade freely within the EU without customs duties. This is a major advantage for Danish businesses selling goods to countries like Germany or France. Ensure you understand the VAT rules for cross-border sales (e.g., distance selling thresholds).
• Hire a reliable corporate service provider: The key to a smooth setup is working with a specialist who understands the needs of foreign entrepreneurs. Intercompany Solutions’ English-speaking team and 5-star ratings on Trustpilot and Trustindex make them a trusted choice for Danish founders. Their multilingual specialists can handle clients from the US, UK, India, UAE, and beyond, ensuring clear communication.

A Dutch BV is not just a legal entity; it is a tool for growth. Whether you are an e-commerce seller looking to tap into the EU market or a consultant seeking a stable EU base, much like entrepreneurs launching a business from Finland, the Netherlands offers the infrastructure and legal framework to support your ambitions. With Intercompany Solutions handling the formation and compliance, you can focus on what you do best: growing your business from Denmark.