The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) is a longstanding agreement between the Netherlands and the United States that gives American citizens a comparatively straightforward route to legal residency. Under the arrangement, US nationals can apply for a residence permit by setting up a business in the Netherlands, with a lower investment threshold than many other permit types. According to recent reporting, almost 700 Americans made use of the treaty in 2025, which suggests it remains a popular option for those considering a move.
What this means if you are learning Dutch or new in the Netherlands: DAFT is often discussed as one of the more accessible visa routes for Americans, but it still involves paperwork, a business plan and registration steps with the Dutch immigration authorities. It is not a shortcut around learning the language or integrating. If you are considering it, treat it as a practical residency option to research carefully rather than a quick fix. Learning some Dutch will help with everyday administration, from opening a bank account to dealing with the municipality, and will make settling in smoother regardless of which permit you hold.