Starting a Childcare Business

There are several types of childcare businesses you can start. For example, consider:

daycare center
childcare agency
after-school care (BSO)

Tip: First, check out thestep-by-step guide to starting a childcare center at or the step-by-step guide to starting a child care agency at on Ondernemersplein.

Would you like to become a child care provider? For more information,visit the Dutch government’s website at.

Why Quality Is Important

Good child care is very important. Children need to feel safe and be given the space to develop. That is why the national government has established quality standards that child care organizations must adhere to.

What You Need to Arrange

Location and Permits

Check the municipality's zoning plan.
Check which permits you need.
Is the location unsuitable according to the zoning plan? Request permission from the municipality.

Fire Safety

Do you have more than 10 children under the age of 12? If so, you’ll need a fire safety permit from the municipality.
Fewer than 10 children? In that case, a notice of use is sufficient.

Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG)

Apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct for Legal Entities for your organization.
All employees must have a Certificate of Good Conduct for Private Individuals (screening profile 84 or 86).
Employees can apply for this through Justis or by submitting a form to the municipality.
With a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG), you and your employees can register in DUO’s childcare personnel registry.

Register with the Child Care Dispute Resolution Committee

Register your child care facility with the Child Care Disputes Committee at . You cannot register with the LRK without first registering with the Disputes Committee.

Register with the National Child Care Registry (LRK)

Parents can view information about daycare centers and inspection reports in the LRK.
Apply to the municipality to register your business at least 10 weeks before opening. To do so, use one of the following forms:

Daycare or After-School Care

Child Care Agency

Childcare at a Family Daycare Provider's Home

Educational Policy Officer

Since 2019, it has been mandatory to have an educational policy officer.
He or she coaches educational staff and develops educational policies.

How long does it take?

The GGD will verify that your childcare facility meets all requirements. You will receive the municipality’s decision no later than 10 weeks after submitting your LRK application.

More information

For registration and questions, please email lrk@voorschoten.nl