How to Gain Access to The Unusual Space Startup Facilitation Program?
The Unusual Space is an officially recognized Startup Visa Facilitator in the Netherlands, offering guidance and consultation through our one year Facilitation Program.
What is the Startup Visa?
Securing a foothold in Europe begins with navigating the legal pathways designed for global innovators. This specialized permit allows non-EU entrepreneurs to build and validate their operational models in a highly supportive ecosystem.
The Dutch Startup Visa is a one year residence permit created for ambitious startup founders from outside the EU. It allows you to establish your innovative business in the Netherlands under the guidance of a recognized facilitator.
What is a Facilitator?
A facilitator acts as your strategic partner, bridging the gap between foreign ambition and local market realities. Their formal endorsement is an absolute legal necessity for acquiring and maintaining your residence permit.
A facilitator is an officially recognized organization that supports and guides startups during their first year in the Netherlands. Facilitators help startups grow by providing access to relevant networks, resources, and business knowledge. The Unusual Space is proud to be one of these recognized facilitators.
Startup Visa Requirements
The Dutch government maintains rigorous standards to ensure only highly viable, forward thinking ventures enter the market. You must prove both the financial sustainability of your operations and the genuinely innovative nature of your product.
To qualify for the Startup Visa, you must:
Have an innovative or tech-driven product, service, or business model
Partner with a recognized facilitator (like The Unusual Space)
Provide a detailed and feasible business plan
Meet minimum financial criteria to sustain yourself in the Netherlands
Submit an operational marketing strategy
Demonstrate the ability to serve your first customers within a few months
Benefits of the Startup Visa Program
Beyond mere immigration status, this pathway grants unparalleled access to one of the world's most robust digital economies. Successful applicants routinely leverage generous tax incentives and a massive pool of highly educated talent.
1-year Dutch residency with the potential to extend
Fast-track growth through expert guidance
Access to The Unusual Space’s extensive entrepreneurial network
Eligibility for the Dutch 30% tax ruling for skilled migrants
Gateway to EU and international markets
Access to a highly skilled and multilingual workforce
What’s Included in The Unusual Space’s Startup Program?
We provide a holistic, 360 degree support structure designed to eliminate operational friction during your critical first year. From premium workspaces to top tier mentorship, our hub equips you with every resource needed to thrive.
When you join our Startup Visa Program, you gain more than a visa you become part of a thriving international community. Our program includes:
A 1 year facilitation and mentorship program tailored to your startup’s needs
Access to expert advisors and business professionals
Invitations to exclusive networking and knowledge-sharing events
Access to the various features offered by our Facility, including; to our co-working space, event venue, and meeting rooms
A direct connection to a diverse and supportive ecosystem
Ready to bring your startup to the Netherlands?
Let The Unusual Space help you launch, grow, and thrive. Apply for our Startup Visa Facilitation Program and take your business to the next level. For more information and to begin your journey, visit The Unusual Space today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the facilitation program?
You can initiate the process by booking an introductory consultation through our website. During this call, we will evaluate your business plan and assess your startup's innovative potential. If there is a mutual fit, we will guide you through signing the official facilitation agreement.
Do I need a completed business plan to apply?
While a final, polished document isn't required for the first introductory call, having a comprehensive draft or pitch deck is essential. The Dutch government requires a highly detailed operational plan to approve the visa. We will help you refine your draft to meet these strict national standards.
What happens after my first year in the program?
Upon successfully proving your business viability during the first year, you can transition your visa to a standard Dutch self employed residence permit. Our team provides ongoing support to ensure your metrics and progress reports meet the IND requirements for this extension. Many founders choose to stay within our coworking ecosystem long after.
