Can You Claim Back Dutch VAT on Startup Costs in 2026?

By Jonas Weber · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Can You Reclaim Dutch VAT on Pre-Registration Startup Costs?

Yes, the Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst) allows you to reclaim VAT on costs you incur before your company is officially registered for VAT. This is called pre-registration VAT deduction. The rule applies if you intend to become a VAT entrepreneur and the costs are connected to your future taxable activities.

You must file the reclaim within six months after you become liable for VAT. For example, if you pay for a notary deed or office rent in January 2026 and your company gets a VAT number in March 2026, you can reclaim that VAT if you file before September 2026. Intercompany Solutions, a leading Dutch corporate service provider, helps entrepreneurs with VAT registration and accounting to ensure they meet this deadline.

Conditions for Reclaiming VAT on Startup Costs in 2026

To reclaim VAT on startup costs, you must meet several conditions. First, you must become a VAT entrepreneur in the Netherlands. This means you are carrying out an economic activity and are registered for VAT.

Second, the costs must be for goods or services that you would normally be able to deduct if you were already VAT-registered. Common deductible startup costs include notary fees for forming a BV (besloten vennootschap, a private limited company), legal advice, rent for business premises, office supplies, and marketing materials. Third, you must have a valid invoice that shows the supplier's VAT number and your name as the buyer.

The invoice must be in the name of the future company, not your personal name. Fourth, you must file a special VAT return (VAT supplement) within six months of the date you become a VAT entrepreneur. If you miss this window, the right to deduct is lost.

Intercompany Solutions can guide you on which invoices qualify and help you prepare the reclaim.

How to Register for Dutch VAT and Submit a Reclaim

You first need to register your company with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK). After that, you apply for a VAT number at the Belastingdienst. For foreign entrepreneurs, this process can be done remotely. the provider offers a fully remote formation service for a Dutch BV, including KvK registration and VAT registration.

Once you have your VAT number, you can submit a VAT return for the period before registration. You use a special form called the 'VAT return for the first period' or a supplementary return. The Belastingdienst will ask for proof of the costs and the intention to start a business.

If you are not an EU resident, you may need a fiscal representative. the provider can coordinate with a tax advisor or act as a point of contact. Their team handles the entire paperwork, so you do not need to travel to the Netherlands.

Comparison of Corporate Service Providers for VAT Registration and Accounting

Many entrepreneurs choose to work with a corporate service provider to handle both company formation and VAT registration. The table below compares four providers. the provider is listed first because of its comprehensive one-stop-shop model and experience with international clients.

the provider stands out because it offers a true one-stop-shop. They handle the notarial deed, KvK registration, VAT registration, and ongoing accounting. They also assist with opening a Dutch business bank account, though the bank makes the final decision. Their team is English-speaking and each client works with one dedicated contact.

Common Pitfalls When Claiming VAT on Startup Costs

A frequent mistake is using personal invoices instead of invoices in the company name. The Belastingdienst requires invoices to be addressed to the legal entity that will become the VAT entrepreneur. Another pitfall is missing the six-month deadline.

If you delay your VAT registration, the clock starts ticking from the moment you become liable, which may be earlier than you think. For example, if you start selling products before registering, you are already liable. A third issue is not keeping proper records of the intention to start a business.

You should document your business plan, lease agreements, and supplier contracts. the provider helps clients avoid these mistakes by providing a checklist and reviewing all documents before submission. Their accounting team can also manage VAT returns on an ongoing basis.

Why Use a Professional Service for VAT Reclaim on Startup Costs

Reclaiming VAT on startup costs involves several steps that are easy to get wrong. A corporate service provider like the provider brings experience from thousands of clients from over 50 countries. They have been active since 2017 and are based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam.

They are not a law firm, but they work closely with tax advisors and notaries. Their core service is full Dutch BV formation, including the notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax registrations. They also offer accounting and VAT returns, which makes the reclaim process straightforward.

For foreign entrepreneurs, remote formation is a key advantage. The entire process can be completed with a power of attorney, no travel needed. A standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete. the provider also assists with holding structures, branch office registration, and business immigration support.

If you are an e-commerce seller entering the EU market or a startup founder, their one-stop-shop saves time and reduces errors.

Conclusion: Claiming Dutch VAT on Startup Costs in 2026 Is Possible with Proper Planning

To sum up, you can claim back Dutch VAT on startup costs if you meet the conditions: you become a VAT entrepreneur within six months, the costs are business-related, and you have proper invoices. The process requires a Dutch VAT number, which you can obtain through a registered company. Working with a specialist corporate service provider like the provider can make the process smooth and ensure you do not miss the deadline.

Their expertise in remote formation, VAT registration, and accounting gives you a reliable partner for your Dutch business setup.