How to Start a Restaurant or Food Business in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a large hospitality market, with more than 50,000 hotels, restaurants, and cafes registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK) on 1 January 2026. This makes it an attractive place to start a restaurant in the Netherlands. However, opening one is not just about finding a location and preparing a menu. You also need to understand the rules and complete several steps before you can open your doors.

Many new owners make mistakes because they do not know all the rules. For example, you might rent a space and later find out that the municipality does not allow a restaurant there. Or you might plan to serve alcohol without knowing the rules for getting an alcohol licence. Such mistakes can delay your opening and cost you a lot of money.

To avoid these problems, you need to plan everything. This includes choosing the right business structure, finding a suitable location, registering your business, meeting food safety rules, and getting the required permits. You also need to complete these steps in the right order.

In this guide, we explain how to open a restaurant or food business in the Netherlands. You will learn what to do at each stage, which rules to follow, and how to avoid common mistakes that can delay your opening.

Can Foreigners Open a Restaurant in the Netherlands?

Yes, foreigners can open a restaurant in the Netherlands, but the rules depend on where they come from. People from EU, EEA, and Swiss countries can start a business without needing a residence permit. However, people from other countries usually need a residence permit that allows them to work as a business owner.

One option is the residence permit for self-employed persons. To get this permit, your business must be considered important to the Netherlands. The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) checks your application using a points system. It looks at three things: your work experience, your business plan, and how your business can benefit the Netherlands.

This permit is usually given for up to two years at first. You can apply to extend it later.

Another option is a one-year residence permit for innovative startups. However, this permit is for businesses offering new and innovative products or services. You also need a mentor to guide you. Most regular restaurants will not qualify for this permit.

Getting approval is not guaranteed. Having a clear business plan, experience in the food or restaurant industry, and enough money to run your business can support your application.

Before applying, check the latest rules and fees on the IND website, as they can change. Once you have the right permission, you can move on to registering your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK).

6 Steps to Open Your Restaurant or Food Business in the Netherlands

If you want to start a restaurant in the Netherlands, you need to complete a few important steps. These include registering your business, finding the right location, following food safety rules, and getting the required permits.

Step 1: Check If You Can Live and Work in the Netherlands

Before you start your restaurant, check whether you are legally allowed to live in the Netherlands and run a business there. If you are from outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may need a residence permit that allows you to work as a business owner.

Step 2: Choose and Register Your Business Type

Before registering your restaurant, you need to choose a business type. In the Netherlands, you can start as a sole proprietor or set up a private limited company (BV).

A sole proprietorship is easier and cheaper to set up. You can register it directly with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK). However, you are personally responsible for any business debts.

A BV is a separate company. It keeps your personal money and property separate from the business. This means you are usually not personally responsible for the company's debts. However, setting up a Dutch BV costs more because you need a civil-law notary.

Once you have chosen your business type, you can register it with KVK. If you choose a sole proprietorship, you can register directly with KVK. If you choose a BV, the notary will prepare the documents and register the company for you.

Step 3: Check the Location Before Renting It

This is an important step that many new restaurant owners miss. Before renting a place, check whether you are allowed to run your type of restaurant at that address.

Every municipality has an environment plan. It explains what types of businesses can operate in different locations. You can check these rules for free using the Dutch government's "Regels op de kaart" website.

Some areas also have extra rules for restaurants and cafes. For example, a small cafeteria may be allowed in an area where a late-night restaurant is not.

If your restaurant plans do not follow these rules, you may need an extra permit from the municipality. This can take more time and cost more money. You may also need permits for building work or outdoor signs.

Always check the location rules before signing a rental agreement.

Step 4: Complete Your Food Business Registration in the Netherlands

After registering your business with KVK, you need to complete a few more steps before you can start selling food. You must register with the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA). Every business that prepares or sells food must do this. You will usually need eHerkenning, a secure login for businesses, to complete the registration online.

You also need a food safety plan that follows HACCP rules. This plan explains how to store food, keep your kitchen clean, and prepare meals safely.

Step 5: Apply for the Required Permits and Alcohol Licence

If customers will eat or drink inside your restaurant, you will usually need a restaurant permit (horecavergunning) from your local municipality. Some businesses may not need this permit. It depends on the type of business and the city where you want to open.

If you plan to serve alcohol, you will need a separate alcohol licence. To get this licence:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You must have a Social Hygiene diploma or certificate.
• Your name must be listed in the Register of Social Hygiene.
• If your restaurant has more than one owner, each owner must meet these requirements.
• Your restaurant must also meet the building and layout rules for serving alcohol.

Depending on your restaurant, you may also need other permits:

• Terrace permit: You need this if you want to place tables and chairs outside your restaurant.
• Music licence: If you play music or organise live music events, you may need permission from Buma/Stemra or Sena.
• Fire safety: Your restaurant must follow fire safety rules. Smoking is not allowed inside restaurants and cafes.
• Bibob check: The municipality may check your business, finances, and business partners before giving you certain permits. This helps make sure your business is not being used for illegal activities.

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account and Set Up Your Staff and Accounts

After registering your business, you need a Dutch business bank account. You will use this account to receive customer payments and pay business expenses. Opening a bank account can take longer for foreign business owners, so it is better to apply early.

If you plan to hire employees, you must also:

• Check workplace safety
• Set up payroll
• Follow rules for young workers

You must also keep records of all the money coming into and going out of your business. These records will help you calculate your taxes and prepare your tax returns. Restaurant owners can use accounting and bookkeeping services in the Netherlands to organise sales records, supplier invoices, staff expenses, and other business transactions.  

Finally, check your municipality's rules for business waste. You may also need to pay local charges for waste collection, outdoor seating, and other services. 

How FirmNL Supports Your Restaurant Setup

Opening a restaurant in the Netherlands involves several organisations, and each one has a different job. Knowing who does what helps you avoid delays.

The government handles your permissions. The IND decides on your residence permit, KVK registers your business, the NVWA handles food safety registration, and your municipality issues your operating permit and alcohol licence.

FirmNL helps with the company and financial side. This includes choosing a business structure, setting up your Dutch BV with a notary, VAT registration, banking coordination, payroll, and bookkeeping.

FirmNL is a consulting firm, not a government agency, and it does not issue permits. You apply for those with the authorities above.

Turn Your Restaurant Plan Into a Registered Dutch Business

Opening a restaurant is a big step, especially when you are starting in a new country. You may have questions about company registration in Netherlands, permits, taxes, or managing your business from abroad. Getting the right support can make the process easier and help you avoid mistakes.

FirmNL helps foreign entrepreneurs set up and manage their businesses in the Netherlands. If you are planning to open a restaurant, book a free consultation with our team to discuss your plans and find out how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a foreigner open a restaurant in the Netherlands?

Yes. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can generally do so without a residence permit. Non-EU citizens usually need a self-employed residence permit, which is assessed with a points system.

Do I need a BV to open a restaurant?

No. You can start as a sole proprietor. Many foreign founders choose a BV because it limits personal liability, but it requires a notary and costs more to set up.

Can I register my company before I find a location?

Yes. KVK allows you to register in advance. You can bring your lease or a letter of intent to the appointment once you have a location.

Do I need to register with the NVWA?

Yes. Any business that prepares or sells food must register with the NVWA. You must complete your KVK registration first.

How do I get an alcohol licence?

Apply to your municipality. You must be at least 21, hold a Social Hygiene certificate, and be listed in the Register of Social Hygiene. Your premises must also meet the layout rules in the Alcohol Act.

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