From 1 January 2015 a new scheme is being introduced for ambitious start-ups from outside the European Union (EU).

Entrepreneurs can apply for a one-year residence permit to start an innovative business in the Netherlands. One condition is that they receive support from an experienced and reliable facilitator in the Netherlands.

If the start-up meets all the requirements for the temporary permit, the entrepreneur has one year to develop their innovative product or service. The facilitator provides guidance in turning the concept into a business. After one year, the entrepreneur can extend his residence permit on the grounds of the scheme for self-employed foreign nationals.

From 1 January 2015 the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) website provides more information about the scheme, the conditions and the application procedure.