Financial Lease
Car financing for expat entrepreneurs: KvK, BSN and bank account
Updated
Before you can finance a business car as an expat, a few administrative matters need to be in order. Knowing these steps prevents delays in your application.
Step 1: register with the municipality
If you live in the Netherlands for more than four months, you register with the municipality in the Personal Records Database (BRP). You then receive a citizen service number (BSN). Without a BSN you cannot open a bank account or register a business.
Step 2: register your business
You register your business with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK). With a sole proprietorship you also receive a VAT identification number from the Dutch Tax Administration. For a private limited company (bv) you go through a civil-law notary.
Your choice of legal form affects how the car appears on the balance sheet. Read more about financial lease for a bv.
Step 3: a business bank account
Lenders prefer to collect the monthly instalment from a Dutch business account. It also helps the assessment: your bank statements show how your turnover is developing.
Step 4: the application
With this in place you can apply. A lender will ask about your figures, the car and the term you want. Use the lease calculator to see roughly what a monthly payment could be.
Unsure about your tax position as a newcomer? Discuss your situation with an accountant who has experience with international entrepreneurs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I lease with a company registered abroad?
Dutch financing usually requires a Dutch KvK registration, for example of a branch here.
Do I need a VAT number?
Not always for the lease itself, but you do to reclaim VAT on the car if you are VAT-registered.
How quickly do I get a BSN?
That depends on the municipality. Book your appointment as soon as possible after arrival.
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