Planning to work as freelancer from abroad: what you need to know

Are you a self-employed professional (ZZP’er) considering working from abroad?

It’s important to understand the consequences for your registration, taxes, and obligations in the Netherlands.

Key points to consider:

• Check your SBI code – make sure your activity code matches your current business.

• Notify KVK – moving abroad requires updating your company’s registration status.

• Deregister – if you no longer conduct business in the Netherlands.

• Dutch business address – necessary if you keep working or serving clients in NL.

• Taxes & insurance – living abroad can affect your tax liability and pension contributions.

Examples:

1. Dentist in France, still treating patients in NL → stays registered, needs NL address.

2. Journalist in the USA, only remote work for Dutch clients → must deregister.

3. Webshop owner in Spain, operations fully abroad → company must deregister, even with NL clients.

4. Handyman in Austria, working part of the year in NL → may remain registered if NL address is kept.

5. Consultant in Sweden, occasionally visiting NL clients → company in Sweden, NL registration closed.

Conclusion:

As a freelancer, you must carefully consider where you live, where you work, whether you maintain a Dutch address, and how this affects taxes and social security.

Consult your accountant and KVK in advance to avoid surprises.