Relocating from the Netherlands to the United States opens the door to incredible professional and lifestyle opportunities — but it also introduces a complex financial landscape. The US tax and financial systems differ significantly from those in the Netherlands, and without proper planning, you could face double taxation, compliance challenges, or inefficient investment structures.
At Blacktower Financial Management, we specialise in cross-border financial planning for individuals and families moving between Europe and the US. With nearly 40 years of experience, our advisers help expatriates protect, manage, and grow their wealth when relocating — ensuring your finances are fully optimised for both jurisdictions.
Understanding US Tax Residency and Compliance
Once you become a US tax resident under the Substantial Presence Test, the IRS taxes you on your worldwide income — including income, pensions, and investments from the Netherlands.
While the US–Netherlands Double Taxation Treaty helps prevent double taxation, it’s essential to ensure that your financial affairs are properly declared and structured. You’ll also be subject to the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Reporting) rules, requiring disclosure of overseas accounts and investments.
Blacktower’s international advisers help you understand how your Dutch income and assets will be treated under US tax law, ensuring compliance, transparency, and tax efficiency.
Reviewing Dutch Investments and Wealth Structures
Dutch investment products such as beleggingsfondsen, lijfrenteverzekeringen, or Box 3 savings accounts are unlikely to be recognised as tax-efficient under US law. Many are treated as PFICs (Passive Foreign Investment Companies) by the IRS, which can trigger punitive taxation and complex reporting obligations.
Before relocating, it’s crucial to:
- Review and potentially restructure your Dutch investments into US-compliant solutions.
- Consider timing the sale or transfer of assets to minimise capital gains exposure.
- Assess how your Dutch pension and savings plans will be taxed once you establish US residency.
Our advisers will help you reposition your portfolio using US-approved, tax-efficient investment structures that align with your financial goals.
Pensions and Retirement Planning
If you hold a Dutch pension (pensioenregeling or lijfrente), understanding how it will be treated under the US–Netherlands tax treaty is vital. Pension withdrawals and contributions may be taxed differently once you’re resident in the US.
Blacktower can help you:
- Evaluate your pension options before and after your move.
- Create a tax-efficient retirement income strategy.
- Integrate your Dutch pension assets into your long-term US-based financial plan.
Why Choose Blacktower
At Blacktower Financial Management, we provide bespoke cross-border financial advice for clients relocating from the Netherlands to the United States. Our international team helps you navigate:
- Tax and residency transitions.
- Investment and pension restructuring.
- Estate and inheritance planning for transatlantic families.
- Currency management between euros and dollars.
We combine global expertise with personal service — ensuring your move is financially smooth, compliant, and secure.
Speak to us today to arrange a confidential consultation with a Blacktower adviser and discover how to protect and grow your wealth when moving from the Netherlands to the US.