Netherlands Student Visa Guide

Dec 7, 2024 - 10:41

Studying in the Netherlands is a great opportunity for international students due to the country’s high-quality education system and welcoming atmosphere. Here’s a guide on the visa requirements and application process for students planning to study in the Netherlands:

Types of Student Visas

Short Stay Visa (Schengen Visa): For courses or programs lasting up to 90 days.
Long Stay Visa (MVV) and Residence Permit (VVR): For programs longer than 90 days.

Do You Need a Visa?

EU/EEA and Swiss Nationals: Do not need a visa or residence permit to study in the Netherlands.
Non-EU/EEA Nationals: Need both a Long Stay Visa (MVV) and a Residence Permit (VVR).

Visa Requirements

To apply for a student visa, you will generally need the following:

Proof of Admission: A letter from a Dutch educational institution confirming your admission.
Proof of Sufficient Financial Means: You must show you have enough money to support yourself during your studies, typically around €12,000 per year.
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your intended stay in the Netherlands.
Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage.
Proof of Accommodation: Confirmation that you have arranged accommodation in the Netherlands.
Birth Certificate: In some cases, a certified birth certificate is required.
Tuberculosis Test: If you are from a country where tuberculosis (TB) is common, you may need to undergo a TB test.

Application Process

Admission to a Dutch Institution: First, you must be accepted into a full-time accredited program at a Dutch educational institution.
Visa Application by the University: After your admission, the institution usually applies for your visa on your behalf through the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Submit Documents: You will need to submit the required documents to the Dutch consulate or embassy in your home country.
Biometrics: You may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a Dutch embassy or consulate.
Visa Decision: The IND will process your visa application. This typically takes 2–3 months.
Collect Your MVV Visa: Once your visa is approved, you can collect it from the Dutch embassy or consulate.

Residence Permit (VVR)

After Arrival: Within five days of arrival in the Netherlands, you must register with the local municipality.
Residence Permit Application: The Dutch educational institution typically arranges your residence permit, which allows you to stay for the duration of your studies. This process usually takes 2-3 months.
Work Permission: Students are allowed to work part-time (up to 16 hours per week) or full-time during the summer months with a work permit.

Renewal and Extension

Extension of Residence Permit: If your study program is extended, you must apply for an extension of your residence permit.
Post-Graduation: After graduation, you may apply for a one-year “Orientation Year” residence permit to look for a job or start a business.

Cost of Visa

Visa Application Fee: The MVV visa application fee is around €210, though this may vary.

Important Notes

Early Application: Start the visa application process as early as possible, as it can take several months.
Language Requirements: Some institutions may require proof of English or Dutch language proficiency.

Where to apply?