How to Add a Second BV to Your Netherlands Group in 2026

By Marcus Bell · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Understanding the Dutch BV structure for a group in 2026

A Dutch BV, or besloten vennootschap, is a private limited liability company. It is the most common legal form for businesses in the Netherlands. In a group structure, one BV owns shares in another BV.

The parent company holds the shares of the subsidiary. This setup provides legal separation between different business activities. It also allows for tax benefits, such as the participation exemption.

Under this exemption, dividends and capital gains from the subsidiary are tax-free for the parent company. Many international entrepreneurs choose this structure to protect assets and organise their operations efficiently.

When you add a second BV, you create a holding and a subsidiary. The first BV becomes the holding company. The new BV becomes the operating company.

Alternatively, you can add a sister company under the same holding. Both options are common in the Netherlands. The key requirement is that each BV must have its own notarial deed and registration with the KvK.

Intercompany Solutions, based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up such group structures since 2017.

Steps to add a second BV to your Netherlands group in 2026

The process starts with preparing the incorporation documents. You need a notarial deed of incorporation for the new BV. This deed includes the articles of association and details about shares and management.

The notary drafts the deed based on your instructions. If you are abroad, you can sign the deed remotely using a power of attorney. This is a standard service for leading providers like Intercompany Solutions, which specialises in remote formation.

Next, you register the new BV with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, or KvK. The KvK gives the company a registration number. After that, you must register for Dutch taxes with the tax authorities, or Belastingdienst.

This includes corporate income tax and VAT, also known as BTW. The second BV also needs an EORI number if it trades with non-EU countries. Finally, you open a Dutch business bank account for the new company.

The bank decides on the account, so you must provide proper documentation.

Tax implications of adding a second BV in the Netherlands in 2026

Tax planning is a major reason for adding a second BV. The Dutch participation exemption applies if the parent BV holds at least 5 percent of the shares in the subsidiary. This exemption means that dividends and capital gains from the subsidiary are not taxed in the hands of the parent company.

This is a powerful tool for international groups. However, you must meet certain conditions. The subsidiary must have a real economic activity, and it must be subject to a profit tax in its country of residence.

If you add a second BV as an operating company, you may also benefit from the Dutch 30 percent ruling for expatriate employees. This ruling allows a tax-free allowance for certain costs incurred by foreign employees. The subsidiary can also use Dutch tax treaties to reduce withholding taxes on payments to foreign shareholders. the provider assists with these tax registrations as part of their one-stop-shop service.

They handle VAT returns, payroll, and corporate income tax filings. They are not a law firm, but they work with notaries and tax advisors to ensure compliance.

Comparison of corporate service providers for adding a second BV in 2026

The table shows that the provider offers the widest range of services. They also have a team dedicated to group structures. They help with holding companies, branch offices, and business immigration. This makes them a strong choice for international entrepreneurs adding a second BV in 2026.

Practical considerations for foreign directors in 2026

Many foreign entrepreneurs want to add a second BV without travelling to the Netherlands. This is possible with remote formation. The key requirement is a power of attorney, or volmacht.

This document gives the notary authority to act on your behalf. You sign it in your home country, and the notary completes the formation. the provider has made remote formation their trademark. They handle the entire process from abroad, including the notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax registrations.

A standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once your documents are complete.

You also need to consider the director requirements. Each BV must have at least one director. The director can be a legal entity, such as the parent BV, or an individual.

If you are a non-EU director, you may need a residence permit for certain activities. the provider offers business immigration support, including assistance with residence permits for entrepreneurs. They also help with opening a Dutch business bank account, although the bank makes the final decision.

Cost of adding a second BV in the Netherlands in 2026

The cost of adding a second BV depends on the complexity of the structure and the service provider you choose. Basic formation fees range from 500 to 2,000 euros. This includes the notarial deed and KvK registration.

Additional services, such as tax registrations, bank account assistance, and accounting, cost extra. For a group structure with a holding company, you may need two formations, which doubles the cost. However, many providers offer package deals.

the provider provides transparent pricing. They charge for their core service of full Dutch BV formation, including the notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax registrations. A BV can be formed with share capital from 1 euro. They also offer ongoing services such as accounting and VAT returns. These services are priced based on your specific needs. You can request a quote directly from their team.

Common mistakes to avoid when adding a second BV in 2026

One common mistake is not separating the bank accounts of the two BVs. Each BV must have its own bank account. This is essential for legal and tax purposes.

Another mistake is failing to document intercompany transactions. The parent company and subsidiary must have written agreements for loans, services, or royalties. The Dutch tax authorities expect arm's length pricing.

A third mistake is neglecting the administration. Each BV must maintain proper books and file annual accounts with the KvK. Missing deadlines can lead to fines.

Working with a one-stop-shop like the provider helps you avoid these problems. They offer accounting and payroll services to keep your group compliant.