Registering with the KVK (Chamber of Commerce)

Registering with the KVK (Kamer van Koophandel, Chamber of Commerce) is your official entry into Dutch entrepreneurship. It's fast, affordable, and mandatory — and it triggers your VAT-id automatically. Here's exactly what to do.

Why the KVK matters#

The KVK is the Dutch business registry. When you register, you get:

• A business registration number (called an extract or uittreksel from the KVK)
• An official record of your business name, address, and activities
• Automatic issuance of your BTW-id (VAT number) by the tax office, usually within 2 weeks

You can't operate legally without it (if you're VAT-obligated, which most freelancers are). And the good news: it takes about 15 minutes and costs around €80.

Before you book your appointment#

• Decide whether you're registering as an eenmanszaak or BV
• Choose your business name and confirm it's not already registered
• Find your SBI activity code (a 6-digit number for your type of work)
• Gather your ID and address proof (utility bill or contract)

Unsure about eenmanszaak vs BV? Read Eenmanszaak or BV? Choosing your legal form.

For your SBI code, use the official SBI search tool on ondernemersplein.kvk.nl — it's simple and it matters for tax purposes (the Belastingdienst watches it for unusual deductions).

The registration appointment#

You book online at kvk.nl or visit a KVK office in person. Here's what happens:

Bring with you:

• Valid identity document (passport, ID card, or driving licence)
• Address proof (utility bill, rental contract, or mortgage statement)
• Your business details (name, SBI code, intended start date)

At the appointment, the KVK officer will:

• Verify your identity
• Confirm your business name, address, and SBI code
• Ask what form of business you're running (eenmanszaak or BV)
• Take payment (currently about €80 for an eenmanszaak; BV formation costs are higher)

The whole thing takes 10–20 minutes.

What you get#

After registration, the KVK mails you an extract (uittreksel) — your official business registration. This is proof you exist. You'll use it to open a bank account, apply for insurance, and show clients.

At the same time, the Belastingdienst automatically sends you your BTW-id (e.g., NL123456789B01) by post, usually within 1–2 weeks. This is your VAT number; it goes on every invoice and in every tax return.

Choosing your SBI code#

Your SBI (Standard Business Classification) is a 6-digit code describing your main activity. Why does it matter?

Tax auditors use it as a first signal. If you claim large deductions that don't match your SBI, you'll be flagged. So pick the code that truly reflects your work:

• SBI 62010 = IT services (software development, design, etc.)
• SBI 70220 = Management consultancy
• SBI 74900 = Other professional services
• SBI 82110 = Accounting and bookkeeping

Use the SBI search — it's not difficult, and the description will confirm you're in the right category.

You can update it later if your business changes, but pick wisely at the start.

After registration: what to do next#

Once you have your KVK extract and (later) your BTW-id:

1. Open a business bank account — most banks ask for your KVK extract as proof of business.
2. Order your official invoices or set up invoicing software — use your new business name and BTW-id.
3. Apply for essential insurance — health insurance, disability insurance, and any professional-liability cover your clients require.
4. Set up your bookkeeping — use your registration date as the start date.
5. File a notice of commencement with the Belastingdienst (often done automatically, but check Mijn Belastingdienst).

Related reading: Starting as a freelancer: the complete checklist.

Common questions about the KVK#

KVK registration is the easiest piece of starting a freelance business. Book your appointment, bring your documents, and spend 15 minutes formalising what you're already about to do. Once it's done, you're officially registered, and your BTW-id will follow automatically. Everything else — bookkeeping, invoicing, tax planning — is easier when this foundation is in place. ZZP Belasting makes the rest automatic.

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