The Netherlands is a top study destination, known for high-quality education and English-taught programs. If you’re an international student (non-EU/EEA/Swiss), you’ll need to secure a Netherlands Student Visa (entry visa and residence permit) before enrolling. This guide walks you through the entire visa process from eligibility and required documents to application steps and insider tips. Read on to make your Dutch study dreams a reality.
Why You Need a Visa & Who Qualifies
If you plan to study in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, most nationalities must obtain a student visa (MVV) and residence permit. (EU/EEA/Swiss citizens only need to register locally, no visa required.) Your university or college – as an IND-recognized sponsor must apply for your visa on your behalf. In practice, this means: once you accept an offer, your school’s international office will initiate the application with the Dutch Immigration Service (IND).
The visa types are: a short-stay Schengen visa (for programs under 90 days) or a long-stay MVV/residence permit (for full-degree study). Most international students opt for the long-stay permit. In summary, ensure your passport is valid (at least 6 months beyond your travel date), and get ready to prove you have admission, funds, and health insurance.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here are the key steps to apply for a Netherlands student visa:
- Get Admitted to a Recognized School. Apply and receive an official letter of acceptance from a Dutch university or college. The program must be full-time and accredited, and the school must be a certified IND sponsor. Keep this admission letter – it’s your primary proof of purpose.
- Prepare Your Documents. Gather all required paperwork early (start months ahead). This typically includes:
- Valid Passport: At least 6 months validity beyond arrival.
- Photos: Two passport-sized photos meeting Dutch requirements.
- Passport Copies & Forms: Filled MVV application form (handled by your school).
- Educational Records: Transcripts, diplomas, and proof of prior study. (These must be legalized/apostilled in your home country and translated to English/Dutch/French/German).
- Proof of Admission: Your official acceptance letter or enrollment confirmation.
- Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds (see next step).
- Health Insurance: Basic coverage for the Netherlands.
- Make sure to legalize/apostille foreign documents well in advance and use certified translators, as required. Missing this step is a common delay – start as soon as you can.
- Show You Can Afford It (Income Requirement). Dutch rules require students to prove enough money to live here (the “study norm”). For 2025, the study norm is about €1,094 per month for higher education (around €13,128 per year). You can show this via:
- Personal bank account or blocked account funds.
- Depositing 12× the monthly norm into the university’s account.
- A scholarship letter or sponsor statement.
- A company or parent’s bank statement with the required amount.
- Your bank statements (or scholarship letters) must be up-to-date and, if foreign, legalized and translated. Insufficient funds is a top visa rejection reason, so double-check the amount required
- School Submits the Visa Application (TEV). Once your documents are ready, your school’s Visa Office applies online for an MVV + residence permit (Entry & Residence procedure). You pay the visa fee (around €210–€243) through the institution. The IND will only start processing once all paperwork is complete and the fee is paid.
- Wait for IND Decision & MVV Issuance. A full application is usually processed in a few weeks (legally up to 90 days). If approved, you’ll get an “inwilliging” letter confirming your residence permit. If you need an MVV (entry visa), the school will tell you when it’s ready for pickup. You then have up to 3 months to collect the MVV from the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country. (If you don’t need an MVV – for example, you already have a long-stay visa – your school still can apply for the residence permit while you are abroad.)
- Fly to the Netherlands and Register. With your MVV visa sticker in hand, travel to the Netherlands within 90 days. Upon arrival, register at the local IND (Immigration) office to collect your residence permit (usually within two weeks). Keep in mind: you must begin your studies and make at least 50% progress each year to keep your permit.
- Understand Your Rights (Work & Stay). Your student permit lets you stay for your study duration plus 3 months (max 5 years total). You may work up to 16 hours/week during term, or full-time during summer months (with a work permit/TWV). After graduation, you can apply for a 1-year orientation year permit to look for work (another €210 fee).
Read More: Giles Family Foundation Scholarship 2025
Additional Resources and Tools
- Your University’s Visa Office: They handle the visa application and will guide you through each step. Keep in close contact and promptly send any requested documents.
- IND Website & Portal: Check the official IND site for up-to-date requirements (e.g. IND’s “Income requirements for study”) and use the “My IND” portal to follow your application status (your school will have login access).
- Study in NL / Nuffic: The Dutch education authority’s site provides student-specific info, including visa FAQs and timelines.
- Schengen Visa Calculator: If you’ll travel in Europe, use an online Schengen 90-day calculator to plan trips.
- Embassy Scheduling: Once you’re in the Netherlands, make sure to book your IND residence permit appointment in time (the IND site has an appointment link).
- Checklist: Create a checklist (your school may provide one) to ensure no document or step is overlooked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid / Pro Tips
- Start Early: Collect and legalize documents months in advance. Ministries can take a long time for apostilles. Missing docs or late submissions are the biggest delays.
- Check Passport Validity: Many forget this: your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the MVV sticker is issued. Renew early if needed.
- Follow Instructions Closely: Use the exact format and translations required. For example, some forms or bank letters must follow IND templates. Checklists from your school are usually very detailed – follow them exactly.
- Proof of Funds: Don’t underestimate living costs. Be conservative in your estimates and provide clear, official proof (older bank statements or borderline amounts often raise red flags).
- Health Insurance & TB Test: Arrange Dutch basic health insurance before arrival. If your institution flagged a tuberculosis test, schedule it at a GGD clinic within 3 months of your permit (required in some cases).
- Correct Fees: The standard student visa fee is ~€210–243, but always confirm current rates (paid through the school. Keep receipts.
- Document Copies: Make copies of everything and keep them handy. If originals are sent, retain certified copies for reference.
- Stay Organized: Label your files by category (e.g. “Financial Proof,” “Academic Records”). This makes it easier to re-submit if the IND asks for more.
- Follow Up Quickly: As soon as your acceptance is confirmed, respond promptly to your university’s requests. Late responses can push your start date.
By staying organized and starting the process early, you can avoid common pitfalls. Remember that your school’s international office is your partner – they have seen it all and can answer questions about your specific case.
Conclusion
Getting your Netherlands Student Visa is a crucial step toward studying in this exciting country. With a clear plan and good preparation meeting the requirements, submitting complete documents, and working with your university you can navigate the process smoothly. Follow each step carefully, and you’ll soon be enjoying Dutch student life. Start your visa application today and take one step closer to your study abroad dreams. Don’t miss this opportunity your future in the Netherlands awaits!
