Start a Ship Management Company in the Netherlands – Complete Guide

In this article, we have discussed about how to start a ship management company in the Netherlands. Read the complete article to know more or contact OnDemand International today!

Grow Your Business
Internationally









Table of Contents

start a ship management company in the netherlands

Have you ever imagined running a business that operates across international waters while being anchored in one of the world’s most powerful maritime hubs? The Netherlands, a nation that commands a maritime economy worth over €24 billion, presents a golden opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish a ship management company. With over 4,000 maritime companies, a well-established shipping ecosystem, and the largest port in Europe—Rotterdam, this country is the nerve centre of global maritime trade.

Beyond its bustling ports, the Netherlands offers a competitive tax regime, including an attractive tonnage tax system, which significantly reduces tax burdens for shipping companies. Its state-of-the-art logistics infrastructure, a workforce known for its maritime expertise, and a pro-business regulatory environment make it an ideal location for setting up a ship management business.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about starting a ship management company in the Netherlands—from legal requirements and licensing to taxation benefits and client acquisition strategies.

Why Start a Ship Management Company in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has established itself as a global hub for maritime activities. 

Here are some key reasons why setting up a ship management company in Dutch is a lucrative opportunity:

  • Strategic Location: The Netherlands offers direct access to major European markets and has one of the busiest maritime routes in the world.
  • Port of Rotterdam: The Port of Rotterdam handles over 440 million tonnes of cargo annually, making it a key maritime hub for global trade.
  • Tax Incentives: The Dutch tonnage tax regime provides favourable taxation for shipping companies.
  • Stable Economy: The Netherlands ranks among the top economies in Europe with strong financial support for businesses.
  • Skilled Workforce: The country has a highly educated and multilingual workforce specialized in maritime and logistics sectors.
  • Advanced Infrastructure: The Netherlands boasts world-class logistics and shipping infrastructure, enabling seamless operations.

How to Open a Ship Management Company in the Netherlands?

To establish a ship management business in the Netherlands, you need to follow these key legal steps:

1. Choose the Right Business Structure

Foreign entrepreneurs can choose from several legal entities, including:

  • Dutch BV (Besloten Vennootschap) – Private limited company in the Netherlands is mostly preferred for ship management businesses.
  • NV (Naamloze Vennootschap) – Public limited company (suitable for larger operations).
  • Branch or Subsidiary – If you already have a shipping company abroad, you can set up a Dutch branch.

2. Register Your Business

You must register your ship management company with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel – KvK).

This process includes:

  • Choosing a unique company name.
  • Submitting incorporation documents.
  • Paying the registration fee (€75 as of 2024).

3. Obtain the Necessary Licenses

The Dutch government requires ship management companies to comply with maritime regulations and acquire necessary shipping licenses.

Some key licenses include:

  • International Safety Management (ISM) Certification
  • Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) Compliance
  • Dutch Shipping Registration (for managing Dutch-flagged vessels)

4. Open a Corporate Bank Account

To operate your business, you need a corporate bank account in the Netherlands. Major Dutch banks such as ING, ABN AMRO, and Rabobank provide business banking solutions tailored to the maritime sector.

5. VAT and Tax Registration

Ship management companies must register for Dutch taxation, including:

  • Corporate Tax – Standard rate: 19% (on profits up to €200,000) and 25.8% (on profits above €200,000).
  • VAT – Shipping-related services may be eligible for VAT exemptions.
  • Tonnage Tax – A special tax regime for shipping companies to reduce taxable profits.

Costs Involved in Establishing a Ship Management Business in the Netherlands

The initial cost of setting up a ship management company in the Netherlands varies based on company structure and operations. 

Here’s an estimated breakdown:

Expense

Estimated Cost (€)

Legal & Notary Fees

1,000 – 2,500

Office Rent (per month)

1,000 – 3,000

Corporate Bank Account Opening

500 – 1,500

License & Certification Costs

2,000 – 5,000

Tax Benefits for Ship Management Companies

The Netherlands offers a unique tonnage tax regime that benefits ship management businesses. Instead of paying corporate tax on actual profits, companies can opt for taxation based on net tonnage, which significantly reduces the tax burden.

Additionally, the Netherlands has over 100 double taxation treaties, ensuring that international shipping profits are not taxed twice.

Read More: Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement in the Netherlands

Conclusion

Starting a ship management company in the Netherlands is a promising venture, given the country’s maritime strength, tax incentives, and robust infrastructure. With the right planning, you can establish a thriving business that operates on international waters while benefiting from one of the most attractive business environments in Europe.

However, setting up and expanding a business in a foreign country can be complex. That’s where OnDemand International comes in. Our business experts specialize in helping entrepreneurs register and grow their companies in the Netherlands. From business incorporation and legal compliance to tax structuring and financial planning, we offer end-to-end solutions to make your journey seamless.

Ready to launch your ship management company in the Netherlands? Contact OnDemand International today to get expert guidance and take the first step toward success!

FAQ’s

No, foreign entrepreneurs can register a business in the Netherlands without being a resident. However, having a local business address and representation is recommended.

The Dutch tonnage tax regime allows shipping companies to pay taxes based on net tonnage rather than actual profits, significantly reducing tax liabilities.

Yes, you can manage both Dutch-flagged and international vessels, provided you comply with international maritime regulations.