Apart from being known for its tall population, the Netherlands also stands out when it comes to higher education. It has several well-known universities, including the University of Amsterdam, the University of Groningen, Utrecht University, and the Eindhoven University of Technology, among others. If you plan to study in the Netherlands for more than 90 days and you are not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you will generally need a student residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need an entry visa called an MVV.
Navigating the process of obtaining these crucial documents can be both exciting and daunting for international students. This guide aims to simplify the visa and residence permit application process by outlining the essential steps, requirements, and tips to help prospective international students prepare for studying in the Netherlands.
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 or residence permit, here is the general process to follow:
Step 1. Check the Application Requirements
You must first ensure that you have proof of admission or registration from a Dutch educational institution. For higher education, only your educational institution can apply for your student residence permit, and the institution must be a recognized sponsor by the IND. Your study program must also be accredited, and you must enroll in a full-time program. The school will outline the requirements you need to meet, as they may vary by institution. Contact the relevant department well in advance so you can gather everything on time, and always follow your university’s visa instructions and deadlines.
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 a valid passport or another valid travel document. If you need an MVV, your passport must be valid for at least six more months when the Dutch representation places the MVV sticker in your passport. The MVV itself is valid for 90 days. |
| Proof of Admission or Registration | You need proof of registration or temporary proof of registration as a student at a university or institute of higher professional education. The school must be a recognized sponsor by the IND, your program must be accredited, and you must enroll full time. |
| Appendix Antecedents Certificate | Everyone over the age of 12 must complete the Appendix Antecedents Certificate and include it with the application. This certificate indicates whether you have committed an offense or crime and helps show whether you pose a danger to public order or national security. |
| Proof of Sufficient Funds | You must show that you have enough money to live and study in the Netherlands for 12 months. For 2026, the study norm for higher professional education or university is €1,130.77 per month. Your educational institution will tell you what evidence it accepts, such as bank statements, scholarship letters, or financial support documents. |
| Language Proficiency Proof | This is usually an admission or program requirement rather than a separate IND-wide requirement. Depending on your program, you may need to provide proof of proficiency in English or Dutch, typically through standardized test scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, or a Dutch language certificate. |
After you arrive in the Netherlands, you may have to take a tuberculosis (TB) test unless you are exempt. If a TB test is required, make an appointment with the public health service (GGD) within three months after receiving your residence permit. Official foreign documents must be legalized and translated into Dutch, English, French, or German when required.
Step 3. Submit Your Visa Application
Your school will submit the complete application to the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). If you need an MVV, your educational institution applies for your MVV and student residence permit at the same time. If you do not need an MVV, your institution applies for the student residence permit only. If the IND needs additional information, your educational institution will be notified and will contact you.
Step 4. Pay the Application Fee
To finish the application process, you will need to pay the IND application fee, which is currently €254 for a higher education student residence permit. This fee is paid through the educational institution where you are admitted. Fees can change each year, so check the current IND fee page before applying.
Step 5. Await Application Decision
Once the submission has been made, the IND must take a decision within 60 days. This is called the decision period. The decision period can be extended if the application is incomplete or if the IND needs more time to decide. During this period, your institution may ask you to provide more information or documents. Check your email frequently and submit any requested information on time to prevent delays.
Step 6. Receive Your Visa
If your application is approved, your educational institution will receive the decision letter. If you need an MVV, you must make an appointment with the Dutch embassy or consulate within three months after the IND decision. Make sure all details on your MVV sticker are correct. The MVV is valid for 90 days and allows you to travel to the Netherlands and collect your student residence permit. Once you arrive, follow your university’s arrival instructions, collect your residence permit when it is ready, and complete any required post-arrival steps, such as the TB test if applicable.
Where to Apply for a Netherlands Student Visa?
For higher education, you do not apply directly to the IND for a student residence permit. Your Dutch educational institution submits the application on your behalf and acts as your point of contact during the procedure. For example, if admitted to Utrecht University, the Visa Office applies on your behalf and informs you of the details by email. Utrecht University also notes that non-EU full-degree students must arrange appropriate health insurance, and students who start working in the Netherlands are required to take out Dutch basic health insurance.
How Much is the Visa Issuance Fee for a Student Visa?
The IND application fee for a Netherlands student residence permit is currently €254. This fee covers the assessment of the application and is not refunded if the application is rejected. If your application is denied, read the IND decision carefully. You or your recognized sponsor may be able to object to the decision, and in some cases it may be better to submit a new application after addressing the reason for refusal. If you submit a new application, you may need to pay the application fee again.
Securing a student visa or residence permit 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, follow your university’s deadlines, and seek assistance from your university’s international office if needed. Once your visa or residence permit is approved, you’ll be one step closer to experiencing the enriching educational environment and diverse culture that the Netherlands offers.
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!
