Opening a barbershop in the Netherlands can be an excellent business opportunity. The men's grooming market is growing, and more customers are looking for quality services and a professional experience in modern barbershops.
In this complete guide, we explain step by step everything you need to know to open your barbershop in the Netherlands: from legal requirements and KVK (Chamber of Commerce) registration, to initial investment in Euros, strategic location, equipment, and management tools that will help you succeed from day one.
8 Steps to Open Your Barbershop in the Netherlands
Research and Business Plan
Before opening your barbershop in the Netherlands, it's essential to conduct thorough market research and create a solid business plan. Many barbershops we see struggle with unclear pricing and target market—this step helps you avoid that.
Key elements to research:
- Competition analysis: Identify how many barbershops are in your area, what services they offer, their prices (typically €15–€40 for a haircut in major cities), and what differentiates them. Use Google Maps and local directories to analyze competition.
- Target audience: Define your ideal client: age, budget, and preferences. In the Netherlands, barbershops often serve professionals, students, and families—tailor your offer to your location.
- Average market prices: Research what other barbershops charge. Prices vary by city: Amsterdam and Utrecht tend to be higher; smaller cities may be lower. Typical range: €15–€35 for a basic cut, €25–€55 for cut + beard.
- Service demand: Evaluate if there's sufficient demand. Consider population density, nearby offices or universities, and foot traffic in areas like Amsterdam Centrum, Rotterdam Centrum, Utrecht, or The Hague.
- Peak hours: One common issue in the Netherlands is not matching operating hours to when people actually come—observe local patterns and consider lunch and evening slots.
Legal Requirements and Permits in the Netherlands
To legally operate a barbershop in the Netherlands, you need to comply with the following. Requirements may vary slightly by municipality (gemeente). One common issue in the Netherlands is operating without KVK registration—this can lead to fines.
KVK Registration (Kamer van Koophandel)
Register your business with the Chamber of Commerce (KVK) in the Handelsregister (Trade Register). This is mandatory for anyone running a business in the Netherlands. You will receive a KVK number (KvK-nummer), which you need for contracts, banks, and tax. You can register as a sole proprietor (eenmanszaak) or set up a company (e.g. BV).
Where: KVK office or online (kvk.nl)
Estimated time: Same day to a few days
Cost: Around €50–€75 (one-time for Handelsregister)
KVK →Belastingdienst (Tax Registration)
Register with the Belastingdienst (Tax Authority) for income tax and, if applicable, BTW (VAT). If your turnover is below €20,000 per year, you may use the Kleinondernemersregeling (small business scheme) and not charge BTW. Above that threshold, you generally need to register for BTW and charge 21% VAT (9% for some services—check current rules). The Belastingdienst is often notified when you register with the KVK, but confirm and complete any forms they send.
Where: Belastingdienst (belastingdienst.nl)
Estimated time: 1–2 weeks after KVK registration
Cost: No registration fee (but you will pay income tax and possibly BTW on turnover)
Belastingdienst →Hygiene Regulations
Barbershops and hairdressing salons in the Netherlands must comply with hygiene regulations (e.g. Warenwet, hygiene code for hairdressers). This includes clean tools, disinfection, and a hygiene plan. The GGD (municipal health service) or NVWA may carry out inspections. Many barbershops we see struggle with incomplete hygiene documentation—get clear on requirements from the start.
Where: Information from KVK, GGD, or sector organisations (e.g. ANKO)
Cost: No permit fee, but you must invest in disinfection and hygiene measures
Liability Insurance (Aansprakelijkheidsverzekering)
Business liability insurance (bedrijfsaansprakelijkheidsverzekering) is strongly recommended for barbershops. It covers claims for injury or damage to clients. Some landlords or contracts may require it. In our experience working with barbershops, having insurance from day one avoids stress if something goes wrong.
Cost: Roughly €150–€500 per year depending on coverage and insurer
If You Hire Employees: Payroll and Social Security
If you employ staff, you must register as an employer with the Belastingdienst, deduct wage tax and social contributions, and comply with Dutch employment law (minimum wage, contracts, holiday pay, etc.). Consider using a payroll service (salarisadministratie) or accountant (administratiekantoor) to avoid errors.
Estimated Initial Investment
The initial investment to open a barbershop in the Netherlands can vary significantly. Here's an approximate breakdown in Euros (EUR):
Note: A small barbershop with basic equipment can start around €15,000–€35,000. A larger or more premium setup in Amsterdam or Utrecht may require €50,000–€75,000 or more. In our experience working with barbershops, keeping 3–6 months of operating expenses as working capital reduces stress in the first year.
Strategic Location
Location is one of the most important factors for success. Look for areas with good foot traffic, visibility, and access. In the Netherlands, being near offices, universities, or busy high streets often helps.
Key cities and areas:
Amsterdam
Centrum, Jordaan, De Pijp, Oud-West—high rent but high traffic. Good for premium or mid-range barbershops.
Rotterdam
Centrum, Kralingen, Noord—strong market with slightly lower rents than Amsterdam.
Utrecht
Centrum, Lombok—vibrant city with good foot traffic and student population.
Other cities
The Hague (Den Haag), Eindhoven, Groningen, and Haarlem offer strong markets with varying rent levels.
Equipment and Furniture
Quality equipment is essential for providing excellent service. Invest in professional chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, and good lighting. Add a management system like BarberíaClub to manage appointments and clients from day one.
Note: For a small barbershop with 2–3 chairs, equipment can cost roughly €5,000–€22,000 depending on quality and brand.
Staff Hiring
Hire barbers with good skills and a professional attitude. Define clear schedules, wages, and policies. Register employees for payroll and social security and comply with Dutch employment law. A good team creates a memorable experience and brings clients back.
Management System and Technology
A good management system helps you organize appointments, manage clients, and send reminders. Many barbershops we see struggle with no-shows and double bookings—software like BarberíaClub solves this and offers online booking that Dutch clients increasingly expect.
Marketing and Promotion
Effective marketing is crucial to attract clients. In the Netherlands, Google and Instagram are widely used—post your work, location, and prices. Get your barbershop on Google Maps (Google My Business) and encourage reviews. Offer opening promotions and rely on word of mouth by delivering excellent service.
- Google Business Profile: Register and keep your address, hours, and photos updated
- Instagram: Post regularly; consider paid ads for your area
- Encourage happy clients to leave reviews on Google and refer friends
Tips and Best Practices for Success
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to open a barbershop in the Netherlands?
You need KVK (Chamber of Commerce) registration in the Handelsregister, tax registration with the Belastingdienst (BTW if applicable), and compliance with hygiene regulations. There is no specific barber license for basic operation. Liability insurance is strongly recommended. If you hire employees, you must comply with payroll and social security (UWV).
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in the Netherlands?
The initial investment can range from €15,000 to €75,000 depending on size, location, and equipment. A small barbershop can start around €15,000–€35,000; a larger or premium setup in Amsterdam or Utrecht may require €50,000–€75,000 or more.
What is the first step to open a barbershop in the Netherlands?
Register your business with the KVK (Kamer van Koophandel) in the Handelsregister. After that, the Belastingdienst will typically contact you for tax registration (and BTW if applicable). Doing market research and a simple business plan first will help you choose location and pricing.