Discover Amsterdam
Meetings and Conventions
Business
Live, Work and Study
Do business in the Amsterdam Area
Discover Amsterdam
Meetings and Conventions
Business
Live, Work and Study
Woman working on her laptop in a work space of The Social Hub Amsterdam City.
Image from The Social Hub

Finding office space

The Amsterdam Area offers a variety of options when it comes to selecting a business location. From grand corporate offices located in bustling business areas to cutting-edge co-working spaces in re-purposed city centre spots - there’s something for businesses of every size and type.

Office and business space in the Amsterdam Area

Amsterdam’s office spaces range from modern co-working spaces in startup hubs to fully equipped corporate facilities. It’s easy for businesses to connect to the city’s creative scene and vibrant city life, have access to ICT and tech hubs or financial services, and be in close proximity to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol or the Port of Amsterdam.

Dedicated innovation districts like the Amsterdam Life Sciences District cultivate businesses operating in the field of life sciences and health, while Amsterdam Science Park offers lab/office space hybrids. Get a full overview of Amsterdam’s business locations and areas with more information on business districts, regions and neighbourhoods. This is a strong starting point, no matter what size your venture takes - from a small research lab to a new headquarters.

Find the perfect business location

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, the crucial first step is choosing the right area. Do you need to be on the doorstep of your financial clients? Within walking distance of fellow medtech companies? Or are you looking for space to accommodate your production facility? Take a deep dive into the variety of business locations for office space, industrial areas, retail and creative hubs by viewing our assets map.

Image from Niels Blekemolen

Arrange a site viewing and seal the deal

Once you've determined the right area, it’s time to see what properties are available on the market – or even plots where you can build from scratch. Commercial property listings are typically provided by services such as:

The City of Amsterdam may also be able to help you find an appropriate location. If you’re looking for a spot in an existing or developing business park, check out SADC or Amsterdam Airport City, which both cater to a variety of companies in the Schiphol region and around the outskirts of Amsterdam and Haarlem.

What about the associated costs?

Compared to most of the Netherlands, the Amsterdam Area comes with some of the highest property prices for both rentals and purchases. Of course, there are significant benefits to settling in the region. Aside from the prestige of being in a major European capital city, the access to top-quality infrastructure, innovation resources, and business community means that it regularly tops major international rankings. For startups and entrepreneurs, there are often means to access these immediate benefits via cost-effective co-working spaces or city sanctioned creative hubs.

The train station Amsterdam South at the financial center Zuidas
Image from Ralph Rozema

Understand the necessary permits and your surroundings

There are quite a few considerations when you move into a new premises. Firstly, any planned construction or reconstruction requires the necessary permits. For example, will it comply with environmental regulations? Will you be situated in an area of scenic or cultural and historic value? Do you need new access roads or sewer and water permits? Can you meet government targets for energy-saving measures – today, and in 5 to 10 years? When moving into an existing property, many of these issues will already have been taken care of. Nevertheless, it’s always good to know what permits may be required in the Netherlands.

What taxes apply to business location?

A variety of taxes and levies may apply, depending on the location, size of the property, and where it’s situated. Standard taxes include things like the water authority tax, sewage charge, and property tax. But it’s also good to keep in mind that even having your company branding on display or specific types of signage can result in advertising tax or fees for encroaching on public land. This is a broad topic, so be sure to review this comprehensive list of taxes that may affect business locations.

When moving into the region from abroad, choosing the right business location is key. Remove the guesswork and contact amsterdam inbusiness for customised advice and free assistance to make your landing a little easier and foster new connections within the area.