Can I start a business alongside my job?

  • Edited 30 April 2026
  • 1 min
  • Starting
  • Rules and laws

Can you earn extra money by running your own business alongside your job? In most cases, yes. More and more people are starting out as zzp'ers (self-employed professionals), for example, to start small without giving up their fixed salary.

In this video, KVK presenters Max and Lisanne explain in 1 minute what you need to bear in mind:

  • Check your contract: are you allowed to have a business on the side? Is there a non-compete clause?
  • Discuss your plans with your employer
  • Check whether you need to register with the KVK and Netherlands Tax Administration.

Good to know: even if you only work as a zzp'er for a few hours a week, you will still have to deal with matters such as records, taxes and insurance.

Check out the step-by-step guide to running a business alongside your job.