When to register with the Chamber of Commerce
As soon as you start offering services or products independently with the aim of making a profit, you must register with the Chamber of Commerce. You may do this from a week before the start date. Registration makes your company officially visible and ensures that you comply with legal obligations. This is important because you can then send invoices, conclude business agreements and be liable for tax. It is smart to schedule your appointment early so that everything is arranged before you actually start.
Entrepreneur or not (hobby)
Not everything you do counts as entrepreneurship. Do you occasionally sell something through a platform or earn from a creative hobby? Then you may fall outside entrepreneurship. Only if you work structurally for several clients, promote and make a profit, the KVK will see you as an entrepreneur.
Example: You occasionally bake cakes for family or friends and sometimes get a small fee for the ingredients. You do not advertise, have no regular customers and do not want to make a profit from it. In this case, the KVK sees this as a hobby, not a business.
Which legal form do you choose?
If you are starting out for yourself, then the sole proprietorship often the most logical choice. You don't need any start-up capital and can get started quickly. Everything you earn is yours, but you are also personally liable for any debts. That means your private assets are at risk if something goes wrong. Do you expect a lot of profit or want to limit big financial risks? Then you can also opt for a private limited company, which offers more legal protection but is more expensive and complicated to set up. For most starting self-employed people, a sole proprietorship is the easiest and most convenient.
Cost of registration KVK
Registering at the Chamber of Commerce costs a one-off fee of €82.25. You pay this amount at the appointment at the KVK office. You will be given your KVK number for this. You will need this to open a business account or take out business insurance, among other things.
Registering online; how to do it?
The registration process starts online. At kvk.nl, you fill in all company details, choose a legal form and schedule an appointment at a KVK office. The process works as follows:
- Go to the KVK website and select 'Subscribe'.
- Select the legal form: in this case, sole proprietorship.
- Fill in your details, such as name, address and description of your work.
- Choose a business name that is clear and does not cause confusion with existing businesses. This can be checked via the name checker.
- Check all completed information and schedule an appointment at a KVK location.
After completing, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with an explanation of what to bring.
Appointment at the Chamber of Commerce: what to expect?
During the appointment, a staff member will check your completed details. You must identify yourself with a valid passport or ID card. Then you sign the registration and pay the fees. The whole appointment usually takes less than 30 minutes. Make sure you are on time and have the right documents with you. Remember your proof of identity, your appointment confirmation and any proof of your business address. Afterwards, you will receive your KVK number and you will officially be an entrepreneur.
Checklist:
- A valid proof of identity (passport or ID card)
- The confirmation of your appointment (digital or printed)
- Proof of your business address
- Your debit card to pay the registration fee of €82.25
After registration: tax authorities take care of the rest
You do not have to register separately with the Tax Office. The KVK will automatically forward your details. Within 1 to 2 weeks you will receive your VAT identification number and sales tax number. With this, you can send invoices and start your administration. Please note that you may be VAT liable and must file tax returns from your start date. Be mindful of your bookkeeping and keep your receipts and invoices well. You are fully responsible for your tax affairs from this point onwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need to register with the Chamber of Commerce?
Without registration, you are not visible as an entrepreneur. You need a KVK number to conclude contracts, send invoices and file tax returns.
Can I just register with the Chamber of Commerce?
Yes, as long as you are 18 years or older and really want to be self-employed, you can register. You also have to visit the KVK in person for finalisation.
How much are you allowed to earn without a KVK?
There is no fixed limit. If you earn something occasionally, you don't need to register. Do you earn money structurally with a commercial purpose? Then registration is compulsory.
What do you need to register?
A valid ID, the details of your company and an appointment at the Chamber of Commerce. Make sure you have completed everything in advance via kvk.nl.
