← All Netherlands news

US citizens have dedicated Dutch relocation routes, including DAFT and family residence

Published: 30.07.2026

US citizens are exempt from the long-stay MVV in many residence categories but still need the applicable residence permit. The source describes the DAFT route for qualifying entrepreneurs with at least €4,500 in business capital and family permits requiring identity, relationship, sponsor and income evidence.

For US citizens, exemption from the MVV does not create an automatic right to live in the Netherlands: a suitable residence permit is still required. Entrepreneurs have the DAFT route with the cited minimum business capital of €4,500, while family applicants must provide evidence of identity, the relationship, the sponsor and income. Timing depends on the route; the source cites an IND decision period of up to 90 days for DAFT, while family applications may require apostilled records and income history. This is worth reviewing before relocation, particularly for US citizens planning a business or family reunification.