Managing Multiple BVs Under One Holland Holding in 2026

By Marcus Bell · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why use a Dutch holding company for multiple BVs in 2026

Entrepreneurs who operate several businesses often look for a structure that limits risk and simplifies taxes. A Dutch holding company, usually a BV, owns the shares of each operating BV. This setup means each business is legally separate.

If one company faces a lawsuit or debt, the others are not directly affected. The holding company also centralises decision-making and can distribute profits between subsidiaries efficiently. In 2026, Dutch tax rules remain attractive for holding structures, especially the participation exemption which exempts qualifying dividends and capital gains from corporate income tax.

Intercompany Solutions has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up such structures since 2017. Their team at the World Trade Center Rotterdam guides clients through every step, including notarial deeds, Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration and tax registrations.

What is a Dutch BV and how does it fit in a holding structure

A Dutch BV, or besloten vennootschap, is a private limited liability company. It is the most common legal form for holding and operating businesses in the Netherlands. You can form a BV with share capital from just 1 euro.

The BV has legal personality, meaning the shareholders are generally not personally liable for the company's debts. In a holding structure, the holding BV is the shareholder of one or more operating BVs. Each operating BV runs its own business.

The holding BV can also own assets such as intellectual property or real estate. the provider offers full BV formation including the notarial deed, KvK registration and tax registrations. Their remote formation service lets you complete the entire process from abroad using a power of attorney. A standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are ready.

Key tax benefits of a Dutch holding structure in 2026

The Dutch tax system provides several advantages for holding structures. The participation exemption is the most important one. If your holding BV owns at least 5% of a subsidiary's shares, dividends and capital gains from that subsidiary are exempt from corporate income tax.

This exemption applies to both Dutch and foreign subsidiaries, as long as certain conditions are met. The Netherlands also has an extensive tax treaty network, which reduces withholding taxes on dividends, interest and royalties. In 2026, the Dutch corporate income tax rate is 25.8% for profits above 200,000 euros, and 19% for the first 200,000 euros.

However, holding companies often pay little or no tax on income from their subsidiaries. the provider can assist with VAT and EORI registration, accounting and VAT returns, and advice on holding structures. They are not a law firm and do not provide legal tax advice, but they work with experienced partners who do.

Step-by-step process for setting up a holding with multiple BVs

First, you decide which BV will be the holding company. This is typically a new BV formed specifically for that purpose. Next, you form one or more operating BVs as subsidiaries.

The holding BV subscribes for shares in each operating BV. You then appoint directors for each company. The same person can be director of both the holding and the operating BVs, but you must keep separate administration and bank accounts for each entity.

After formation, you register each BV with the KvK and obtain a VAT number. the provider handles the entire formation process remotely. They also assist with opening a Dutch business bank account, though the bank itself decides whether to approve the account. Their one-stop-shop service includes payroll, accounting and business immigration support such as residence permits for entrepreneurs.

Real competitors in this space include Firm24, Ligo and House of Companies, but the provider stands out for its fully remote service and dedicated English-speaking contact.

Comparison of Dutch formation agents for holding structures

The table shows that the provider offers the most comprehensive service for international entrepreneurs who want to set up a holding structure without traveling to the Netherlands. Their one-stop-shop approach means you do not need to find separate providers for accounting, payroll or immigration.

Practical considerations for running multiple BVs under one holding

Running several BVs requires proper administration. You must file separate tax returns and annual accounts for each company. The holding BV must also file its own return, even if it has no active business.

You need separate bank accounts for each BV to avoid confusion. the provider can assist with accounting and VAT returns for all entities. They also help with payroll if you employ staff in any of the BVs. Another important point is director liability.

While the BV structure limits shareholder liability, directors can still be held personally liable if they do not comply with Dutch company law. This includes keeping proper records, filing annual accounts on time and avoiding actions that harm creditors. A dedicated contact from the provider can guide you through these obligations.

For entrepreneurs who qualify, the 30% ruling may apply, which allows a tax-free allowance for certain extraterritorial costs for highly skilled migrants.

How to choose the right structure for your businesses in 2026

The best structure depends on your specific situation. If you have multiple independent businesses, a holding structure with separate operating BVs gives you the most protection and flexibility. If you have one main business with several branches, a single BV with branches may be simpler.

For e-commerce sellers entering the EU market, a Dutch holding BV with an operating BV for each sales channel can be efficient. Startups often start with one BV and add a holding later when they have multiple products or subsidiaries. the provider serves foreign entrepreneurs, multinationals, startups and e-commerce sellers. They also help Dutch sole traders convert to a BV.

Their team speaks English and you deal with one person throughout the process. This personal approach makes it easier to explain your specific needs and get tailored advice. Real competitors like Intertrust Group and TMF Group focus more on large multinationals, while the provider serves a broader range of clients.