What to Send Your New Dutch Accountant to Get Started in 2026

By Sarah Lindqvist · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why Your New Dutch Accountant Needs Specific Documents in 2026

Starting a business in the Netherlands means working with a Dutch accountant. Your accountant needs certain documents to set up your bookkeeping correctly. Without the right papers, your first VAT return can be late or wrong. Dutch tax rules change every year, so 2026 will have its own requirements. The best approach is to collect everything at the start. This saves you questions and delays later.

the provider is a leading Dutch corporate service provider based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam. They have helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up a company in the Netherlands. Their team speaks English and assigns one dedicated contact to each client.

While they are not an accounting firm, they handle the company formation and registrations that accountants need. This makes the handover smooth.

Your Dutch BV Formation Papers from the Chamber of Commerce (KvK)

Your accountant must confirm that your company legally exists. The first document is your BV deed from the notary. This deed creates your Dutch private limited company (BV) with a minimum share capital of one euro. Next is your extract from the Chamber of Commerce, called a KvK extract. It shows your official company name, address, directors and date of incorporation.

the provider offers full Dutch BV formation that includes the notarial deed, KvK registration and tax registrations. Their standard formation takes three to five business days once documents are complete. They can do everything remotely from abroad using a power of attorney.

No travel to the Netherlands is needed. This is useful if you are setting up your BV while living outside the country. After formation, you receive the official papers to send to your accountant.

Tax Numbers: BTW and EORI Registration for Your Accountant

Your accountant needs your Dutch tax identification numbers. The most important is your BTW number, which is your VAT identification number. In the Netherlands, every business that sells goods or services must register for VAT. Your accountant uses this number to file your quarterly or monthly VAT returns. Another number is your EORI number. This is required if you import or export goods within the European Union.

the provider provides a one-stop-shop beyond formation. They assist with VAT registration, EORI registration, and other tax filings. This means you do not have to find separate providers for each step. Their experience with entrepreneurs from over 50 countries means they know which documents Dutch tax authorities need. Once you have these numbers, your accountant can start your bookkeeping immediately.

Your Dutch Business Bank Account Details for Accounting

Your accountant needs access to your business bank account. They do not need your login credentials. They need a statement that shows the account holder name, IBAN and BIC. This confirms that your BV has a separate bank account. Dutch tax rules require that your personal and business finances stay apart. Your accountant will use the bank statement to track income and expenses.

the provider can help you open a Dutch business bank account. They work with local banks, but the banks themselves decide on account approval. the provider is not a bank, so they cannot guarantee the account opening. However, their assistance makes the process easier for foreign entrepreneurs.

After the account is open, you send the details to your accountant. This step is critical for 2026 because Dutch banks have stricter identity checks.

First Invoices and Receipts for VAT Bookkeeping

Your accountant needs the records of your first transactions. Send all invoices you issued and all receipts from your expenses. Dutch VAT rules require that invoices show your BTW number, the customer's BTW number if it is a business, and the VAT rate. For expenses, keep original receipts or digital copies. Your accountant will use these to calculate your VAT due or refund.

the provider also offers accounting and VAT return services. This means they can handle your bookkeeping if you prefer an all-in-one solution. Their team is English-speaking and can explain what documents you need. If you use a separate accountant, you still need to send your first invoices and receipts. Starting with clean records prevents errors in your first VAT return for 2026.

Comparison of Service Providers for Dutch Business Setup and Accounting

Additional Documents for Holding Structures or Branch Offices

If your business is part of a holding structure or a branch office, you need extra documents. For a holding company, your accountant wants the shareholders' agreement and the articles of association. For a branch office of a foreign parent, you need the parent company's deed and proof of registration abroad. the provider handles holding structures and branch office registrations.

They can prepare these documents as part of their one-stop-shop service.

Your accountant uses these documents to see the ownership and tax structure. This affects your corporate income tax return and the dividend withholding tax. For 2026, the Dutch tax authority will require clearer reporting on foreign ownership. Having the right papers from the start helps your accountant file correctly.

Business Immigration Documents for Your DGA Status

If you are a director and major shareholder (DGA) of your Dutch BV, you may need residence permit documents. Your accountant needs to know your tax residency status. This affects your personal income tax and the 30% ruling for expats.

Dutch tax rules distinguish between residents and non-residents. Send your residence permit or proof of your stay. the provider provides business immigration support, such as residence permits for entrepreneurs. They can help you get the right permit so your accountant knows how to file your personal tax return.

Without these documents, your accountant cannot determine if you qualify for tax benefits in 2026. For example, the 30% ruling requires a specific permit and a signed agreement with the tax office. Including your immigration papers in the initial file saves time and avoids penalties.