Import into the Netherlands Without Paying VAT Upfront – Article 23 Made Simple

Article 23 License Services for eCommerce

FirmNL helps international eCommerce founders obtain the Article 23 VAT license in the Netherlands, enabling import VAT deferment for eCommerce EU businesses. This allows companies to declare VAT in their return instead of paying it at the border, improving cash flow. As part of its Article 23 License Services for eCommerce, FirmNL manages compliance, fiscal setup, and coordination with Dutch tax authorities.

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Understanding Total Employment Cost

Hiring an employee in Portugal includes multiple cost layers beyond salary. Companies must calculate the total cost to avoid underestimating their budget. In most cases, the total employer cost can be 30% to 40% higher than the base salary, depending on contributions and benefits. Having a complete cost picture helps businesses plan hiring strategies and maintain financial stability.

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Quarterly VAT Return Filing

Import VAT declared under Article 23 must be accurately reported in your Dutch VAT return. Incorrect reporting can trigger audits or even suspension of your license.

Import VAT Reconciliation

Each shipment imported into the Netherlands must match customs documentation and VAT declarations.Mismatch between customs data and VAT filings is one of the most common issues.

Maintaining Fiscal Representation

Non-EU companies must maintain active fiscal representation. If compliance obligations are not met, imports can be blocked and representation may be withdrawn.

Employee Documentation Management

Companies must maintain proper employee records and documentation. Missing or incorrect records can create issues during audits. We manage documentation to make sure everything is in place.

Ongoing Regulatory Monitoring

Employment regulations can change over time. Companies must stay updated to remain compliant. We monitor regulatory changes and adjust your setup when required.

Employee Onboarding Compliance

Hiring employees in Portugal needs proper onboarding procedures, including registration with tax and social security authorities. Errors during onboarding can simply leads to regulatory gaps from the beginning. We handle the processes and ensure all registrations are done correctly.

Payroll Tax Compliance

Employers must submit payroll-related tax fillings and declarations within strict deadlines. Incorrect or delayd filings can lead to penalties. We manage all payroll tax submissions and ensure your reporting obligations are met consistently.

Employee Benefits Compliance

Portuguese employment regulations include mandatory perks, allowances, and leave entitlements. Mismanagement of these needs can lead to disputed or compliance issues. We make all stationary benefits and employee entitlements are structured and managed in accordance with local laws.

Let’s Structure Your Article 23 License the Right Way

Ready to Defer Import VAT and Improve Cash Flow?

If you are importing into the Netherlands or planning EU expansion, Article 23 for eCommerce Netherlands enables import VAT deferment for eCommerce EU, helping businesses improve cash flow and scale operations more efficiently.

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How We Secure Your Article 23 License — Without Compliance Risk

Step 1

Business & Import Model Assessment

FirmNL reviews your structure, import flow, and warehouse setup to confirm eligibility for Article 23 for eCommerce Netherlands, reducing the risk of delays or rejection.

Step 2

VAT & EORI Registration Setup

A valid VAT and EORI number are required to enable import VAT deferment for eCommerce EU. FirmNL ensures both are correctly registered and aligned with your import model.

Step 3

Fiscal Representation (If Required)

For non-EU companies, fiscal representation is mandatory. As part of its Article 23 License Services for eCommerce, FirmNL structures and manages this setup to meet Dutch tax requirements.

Step 4

Activation & Ongoing VAT Compliance

Once approved, VAT is declared in your return instead of being paid upfront. FirmNL manages ongoing VAT filings and compliance to keep Article 23 for eCommerce businesses active and risk-free.

Your Partner for Article 23 VAT License Services in the Netherlands

We support international eCommerce businesses with complete Article 23 setup, VAT deferment structuring, and ongoing compliance — so your imports remain smooth and fully compliant.

👉 Speak With Our Dutch Tax Team

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Additional Services for eCommerce Importers Expanding into the Netherlands

Expanding into the Netherlands requires more than just an Article 23 license. eCommerce importers must structure their company, VAT registration, and logistics operations correctly to operate smoothly within the EU. At FirmNL, we support the full operational setup — from legal incorporation to tax compliance and warehouse coordination — so your European expansion is stable, compliant, and ready to scale.

Dutch BV Incorporation for eCommerce Businesses
VAT & EORI Number
Registration
EU Warehouse & Logistics Coordination

What Our Clients Say About FirmNL

"We’re a Finnish business working with a logistics partner in the Netherlands, and we urgently needed a Dutch VAT number to move forward. FirmNL took care of everything and made sure we stayed fully compliant.

Gisli Sverrisson
AMP EHF

"I was surprised by how easy it was to incorporate our Dutch BV. FirmNL handled everything professionally — We were fully set up and ready to start operating. We also had questions about immigration, and they guided us through the Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme, which made relocating key team members smooth and stress-free. Truly a one-stop solution."

Riena Tambunan
Sport World Media BV

"FirmNL really proved to be a one-stop solution for us. They handled everything — from setting up our Dutch company to securing our EU trademark. As an international business entering Europe, their support made all the difference."

Ayman Abdullah
Felco Motors

"As a consulting agency looking to expand into the EU, we honestly had no idea where to begin with compliance. FirmNL walked us through everything — tax, filings, ongoing advisory — and their support has been a total game-changer for our business."

Nitesh Ranvah
Zeroqu Solutions

"As a Chinese manufacturing company, we needed a solid base in the EU to expand our operations. FirmNL helped us set up a Dutch BV remotely, which saved us a lot of time. They also introduced us to a reliable logistics partner — now we’re shipping across Europe with a smooth and compliant setup."

Vincent Lin
Vechoo BV
Activate VAT Deferment Under Article 23

Apply for Your

Article 23

License

Dutch

Business

If you are importing into the Netherlands and want to defer import VAT legally, our Article 23 license services are designed for eCommerce businesses entering the EU. Speak with our Dutch tax specialists and get your VAT deferment structured correctly.

Book Free Consultation
Book Free Consultation
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