Types of companies in Netherlands

The Netherlands is a member of the European Union, a big advantage for residents of EU states. The jurisdiction of Netherlands fully supports foreign ownership with company formation. Economically speaking, Netherlands is very competitive, having a rapid and prosperous development. An entrepreneur may choose a company type that best suits his or her need, from various business entities.

Registration of Dutch Private Limited company (Besloten vennootschap - BV)
A limited liability company may be incorporated in the Netherlands by one or more individuals or legal entities, whether foreign or Dutch. The minimum capital of a limited company is only 1 EUR, since October 2012,  and may be formed by a certain number of shares. The company's shares are privately registered and may not be transferred. The partner's liability is limited o the extent of their contribution to the company's assets.

Registration of Dutch Public Limited company (Naamloze Vennootschap - NV)
A public limited company functions the same as a private limited company, being formed by one or more individuals or legal entities, foreign or Dutch. However the minimum capital required is EUR 45.000; the shares are not registered and may be freely transferred to the public. The partner's liability is limited to the amount of capital invested by each member.

Registration of Dutch General Partnership (Vennootschap Onder Firma - VOF)
The general partnership in Netherlands can be formed by at least two members, Dutch or foreign residents, individuals or legal entities, on the basis of a partnership agreement. There is no minimum capital required, nor does a general partnership have legal personality. The partners are each jointly and severally liable for the obligations of the partnership to the extent of their personal assets.

Registration of Dutch Limited Partnership (Commanditaire Vennootschap - CV)
In Netherlands the limited partnership is a special form of the general partnership. There are two types of partners, active and limited, or sleeping partners. The active partners are the ones who manage the company being responsible for the profits and losses of the company, and also having full liability to the partnership's obligations. The sleeping partners or the limited ones have limited liability to the extent of their contribution and do not interfere in the management of the company, provided that the partnership agreement does not state otherwise.

BridgeWest offers company formation in Netherlands, including virtual office and other related services.