Are you excited to set up a HORECA company in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, its rich history, friendly people, and beautiful landscapes drawing thousands of tourists every year. With the influx of tourists into the country, the HORECA (hotel, restaurant, and café) industry has seen exceptional growth over the last couple of years and it has become a major contributor to the Dutch economy.
But it’s not just leisure travel, business travel is also booming. The favorable business environment of the Netherlands has made it a popular business hub, with businesses of all sizes setting up offices in the country. This creates even more opportunities for those who want to invest in the HORECA sector.
House of Companies consultants are experts in business development in the Netherlands and they can help you to start a Dutch business to take advantage of all the food and accommodation opportunities. Call us now!
Regulations concerning HORECA companies in the Netherlands
The hospitality industry in the Netherlands is strictly regulated by the Dutch government and HORECA companies must adhere to the same laws and regulations as restaurants and hotels. These include the following:
For hotels:
If you operate a hotel, an environmental license for the location of the hotel.
Certificates of inspection from the local fire department, as well as food and veterinary authorities.
Classification from one to five star-ratings.
For restaurants and cafés (including those in hotels)
Comply with strict hygiene codes set out by the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, as well as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points system regulations.
Certain design requirements as set out by the Establishments Layout Requirements Act, dealing with things like kitchen location, number of WCs, air conditioning systems, electrical and water systems, and noise levels.
Staffing requirements that include the ages of staff, food safety training and competence, foreign work permits, injury risk, and emergency evacuation plans.
Fire safety requirements that include local authorities issuing fire safety certificates upon inspection.
Environmental regulations such as waste disposal.
With so many permits and regulations to comply with, it’s easy to get confused. Our company formation agents are here to help. They know all the relevant licenses and regulations, and how to obtain them and comply with them. Call us now!
How do I set up a HORECA company in the Netherlands
The first thing you have to do when starting a Dutch business is to register a Dutch company with the Dutch Trade Register, which must include the mandatory NACE (Nomenclature of Economic Activities) number. For HORECA businesses, the numbers are as follows (depending on the type of operation): Section I; Division 55 & 56; Group 55.1 - 55.9, 56.1 - 56.3; Class 55.10 - 55.90, 56.10 - 56.30.
Once you have registered your Dutch company you need to apply for certain licenses and/or permits.
One of the most popular company structures in the Dutch hotel industry is the Dutch BV, or limited liability company.
Ensure you comply with the rules and regulations set out by the Dutch government concerning the opening of hotels, restaurants, and cafés.
We are experts in Dutch company formation in the hospitality sector, and we can offer you great advice about setting up a HORECA business in the Netherlands. Call us now!
Frequently asked questions:
Do I require a license to operate a HORECA business in the Netherlands?
Yes.
Why is The Netherlands such a good place to start a HORECA business?
The Netherlands is a major international tourist and business destination.
The Netherlands’ geographical location makes it the perfect gateway to Europe for travelers and business people alike.
Hotel rates are very affordable.
Growing amount of disposable income has led to an increase in people dining out.
Hospitality sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Netherlands.
Strict regulations ensure food safety and quality.
The business environment in the Netherlands is very stable and resilient.
How long does it take to start a HORECA company in the Netherlands?
Starting a Dutch company usually takes between 2-5 days, but since you require a license to run a HORECA company in the Netherlands, it may take a bit longer. Call us to find out more.
Can I start a HORECA business in the Netherlands as a non-Dutch or EU citizen?
Yes. The Dutch government allows foreigners to start a Dutch company or bring their existing business from abroad. However, certain legal conditions apply.
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