Apart from being known to have the tallest people in the world, the Netherlands also stands tall when it comes to higher education. It boasts several top-ranking schools like the University of Amsterdam, the University of Groningen, Utrecht University, and the Eindhoven University of Technology among others. If you dream of studying in any of these institutions, you must obtain a student visa (MVV) and/or a residence permit depending on your nationality.
Navigating the process of obtaining these crucial documents can be both exciting and daunting for international students. This guide aims to simplify the visa application process by outlining the essential steps, requirements, and tips to help prospective international students secure their student visa and residence permit.
Let’s dive in!
Steps on Applying for a Netherlands Student Visa
If you are ready to start the process of applying for a Netherlands student visa, here is the general process to follow:
Step 1. Check the Application Requirements
You must first ensure that you have an official acceptance letter from a recognized Dutch educational institution. This will act as your sponsor and therefore must be a recognized sponsor by the IND. The school will outline the requirements you need to meet as they may vary by institution. Ensure you contact the relevant department to understand all the requirements well in advance so you can gather everything on time. You should start this step ideally 3-4 months before your studies begin.
Step 2. Gather Required Documents
You must attach all the required documents for your application to be complete. Collect all necessary documents, including:
GENERAL
DOCUMENTS |
DOCUMENT DETAILS |
| Valid Passport |
You need to have a passport or any other travel document that is valid for at least the duration of your stay in the Netherlands. |
| Proof of Admission |
An official acceptance letter from a recognized Dutch educational institution, confirming your enrollment in a full-time study program. The school must be a recognized sponsor by the IND and your program must be accredited. |
| Appendix Antecedents Certificate |
This certificate will indicate whether you have committed any offense or crime and will prove whether or not you pose any danger to national security or public order. |
| Proof of Sufficient Funds |
Evidence that you have enough financial resources to support yourself during each year of your studies. This amount is called the study norm. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or a declaration of financial support. |
| Language Proficiency Proof |
Depending on your program, you may need to provide proof of proficiency in English or Dutch, typically through standardized test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, and the Certificate of Dutch as Foreign Language). |
Depending on your nationality, you may be required to show a TB certificate. Otherwise, some nationalities will have to take the test once in the Netherlands. Ensure that your documents are notarized and translated into Dutch, English, French, or German.
Step 3. Submit Your Visa Application
Your school will submit the complete application and apply for your MVV and student residence permit. They will submit the details to the Immigration and Naturalization Service for processing. In case of any additional requirements, they will reach out to you on behalf of the immigration department.
Step 4. Pay the Application Fee
To finish the application process, you will need to pay an application fee of €228. Ensure that you pay it when submitting your application. All these will be done through the educational institution where you are admitted.
Step 5. Await Application Decision
Once the submission has been made, you will have to wait for about 60 days within which the Immigration system will make a decision. During this period, you may be requested through your institution to provide more information or documents before they make a decision. Ensure that you check your email frequently in case of any feedback from your school and avail the required information on time to prevent delay in processing your application.
Step 6. Receive Your Visa
If your application is approved, you will receive your visa or MVV. Make sure to check that all details on the visa are correct. Once you have your visa, you can start thinking about traveling to the Netherlands and the relevant documents and essentials you’ll need. Remember that this visa (MVV) is valid for 90 days but you will be issued with a residence permit once in the Netherlands. Once you travel, ensure you report to your school within 3 days of your arrival in the Netherlands for further instructions on how to make your transition.
Where to Apply for a Netherlands Student Visa?
Many universities in the Netherlands handle visa applications on behalf of students. They will guide you through the process and submit the application to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). For example, if admitted to Utrecht University, they will make the application on your behalf and inform you of any details by email. They further advise that you get health insurance once you get to the Netherlands before you can be given your residence permit.
How Much is the Visa Issuance Fee for a Student Visa?
The Netherlands student visa for international students costs €228. Note that this cost is not refundable should the visa be rejected. However, in case your visa application is denied, you can lodge an objection. However, this process can be too long hence making a new application could be an option for you. In this case, you will have to pay the visa fees again.
Securing a student visa (MVV) for the Netherlands is a crucial step in embarking on your academic journey. By following the outlined procedures and ensuring you meet all requirements, you can navigate the application process with confidence. Remember to stay organized, adhere to deadlines, and seek assistance from your university’s international office if needed. Once your visa is approved, you’ll be one step closer to experiencing the enriching educational environment and diverse culture that the Netherlands promises.
We hope that this article on applying for a student visa in the Netherlands was helpful. If you are interested in studying abroad, make sure to check out the Netherlands Guide and Available Programs in Europe!
