Registering with the KvK: steps, costs and your VAT number

The steps

You prepare the registration online and complete it with a physical appointment at a KvK office. You may register at most one week before and one week after the actual start of your business.

1. Choose your legal form. For most freelancers that is a sole trader; if in doubt, read sole trader or BV.
2. Think of a trade name. Check the Trade Register beforehand to see whether it is free and not trademarked. If you work from home, consider straight away whether you want to shield your address; you can indicate that during registration.
3. Look up your SBI code: the code describing your activities. Choose carefully, as it influences how insurers and banks assess your risk.
4. Complete the online registration form and book an appointment.
5. Attend the appointment with valid ID and pay by card.

What does it cost?

Registration costs a one-off fee of just over eighty euros. The KvK indexes that amount annually, so check the current figure on kvk.nl before you go. No VAT is charged on it.

There are no annual costs. The annual KvK contribution was abolished in 2013; staying registered is free. The registration fee itself is a business expense and therefore deductible.

Costs incurred before registration can often still be claimed. See reclaiming VAT on pre-start costs.

Your KvK number and VAT number are not the same

At the appointment you receive your KvK number on the spot. Your VAT numbers come later, from the tax authorities: the KvK passes your details on automatically and you hear back within a few weeks. If someone later asks for proof of your registration, see requesting a Chamber of Commerce extract.

You receive two, which confuses starters. The VAT identification number goes on your invoices and website. The turnover tax number is only used in contact with the tax authorities, for instance in your VAT return. More in applying for a VAT number.

What to arrange right after registering

Registration is the starting signal, not the finish. These are the things to tackle in the first weeks, in order of urgency.

1. Open a business account and keep private and business separate; see keeping private and business separate.
2. Choose accounting software and set up your records properly from the start.
3. Create your first invoice with all mandatory details.
4. Decide whether the small business scheme works for you.
5. Start keeping time records from day one; you need them for the hours criterion.
6. Set money aside for tax from your first invoice; see how much to set aside.

Frequently asked questions