Netherlands Student Visa Requirements Netherlands Student VisaStudying in the Netherlands offers international students a world-class education, a welcoming culture, and access to many post-study work opportunities. This FAQ guide explains everything you need to know about the Netherlands student visa requirements and admission process in 2025, from choosing a university to getting your residence permit.
🎓 Admission Process for Netherlands Universities
❓1. How can I apply to a Dutch university?
To apply to a Dutch university:
- Choose a program: Visit www.studyinnl.org to explore bachelor’s or master’s programs.
- Check eligibility: Ensure you meet academic and English language requirements.
- Apply via Studielink: This is the national application portal used for most universities.
- Submit documents: Each university may also ask for additional documents via email or their own portal.
- Pay application fee: Usually €50 to €100 per application.
❓2. What documents are needed for admission?
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts & certificates (translated to English)
- English language proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo)
- CV/resume
- Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
- Reference letters (optional but recommended)
- Portfolio (for art/design programs)
❓3. What is the language requirement?
Most programs are in English. Common requirements:
- IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5 overall (varies by program)
- TOEFL iBT: 80 – 90
- Duolingo: 105 – 115
- Some universities accept alternative qualifications or internal tests.
❓4. How long does the admission process take?
- Application review: 4–8 weeks
- Admission result: Issued via email or portal
- Visa process: Starts after receiving Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
🛂 Netherlands Student Visa Requirements
❓5. Do I need a visa to study in the Netherlands?
Yes, if you are a non-EU/EEA student, you need:
- MVV (Provisional Residence Permit)
- VVR (Residence Permit for Study)
Good news: The university applies for the visa on your behalf once you’re accepted.
❓6. What are the basic student visa requirements?
- Valid passport
- Acceptance letter from a recognized Dutch institution
- Proof of sufficient financial means (2025 rate: €1,300/month for living expenses)
- Tuition fee payment or proof of scholarship
- Tuberculosis test (only required for some nationalities)
- Health insurance (international or Dutch)
❓7. How much bank balance is required for a student
visa?
You must show proof of funds for the first 12 months of stay:
- Living costs: 12 × €1,300 = €15,600
- Tuition fee: Depends on university (average €8,000 – €16,000/year)
- Total proof of funds: Around €24,000–€30,000
This can be shown via:
- Bank statement
- Sponsor’s financial documents
- Scholarship or grant confirmation
❓8. Who applies for the visa – student or university?
The university’s international office submits your visa and residence permit request to the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) after you:
- Accept the admission offer
- Pay part of your tuition fee
- Submit proof of funds
You do not apply independently for the visa.
🗂️ Required Documents for Dutch Student Visa (MVV & VVR)
❓9. What documents do I need for the student residence permit?
You’ll need:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Copy of your birth certificate (apostilled and translated)
- Admission letter
- Proof of paid tuition fee
- Financial documents (bank statement or scholarship letter)
- Proof of accommodation (rental contract or university housing)
- Health insurance
- Tuberculosis test certificate (if applicable)
- Completed application form (the university usually helps)
❓10. What is the processing time for a Netherlands student visa?
- IND decision: Around 60 days
- MVV stamping in your home country: 7–14 days after approval
- Total visa process: 6–10 weeks from university submission
Apply early to avoid delays.
💰 Tuition Fees, Scholarships & Funding
❓11. What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Bachelor’s programs: €6,000 – €12,000/year
- Master’s programs: €8,000 – €20,000/year
Some public universities charge lower fees, but private institutions may be more expensive.
❓12. Are there scholarships available?
Yes! Major options include:
- Holland Scholarship (€5,000 – one-time grant)
- Orange Tulip Scholarship
- University-specific merit scholarships
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
Check your university’s international office website for deadlines.
❓13. Can I work while studying?
Yes, international students can work:
- Up to 16 hours/week during term
- Full-time during holidays
- Must apply for a work permit (TWV) via employer
- OR work as a self-employed freelancer (with limitations)
🏠 Accommodation & Health Insurance
❓14. How can I find student accommodation?
Options include:
- University-managed housing
- Private student dorms (like StudentStay, The Social Hub, etc.)
- Private apartments or shared rooms
Expect to pay:
- €350 – €650/month for shared
- €600 – €900/month for private studio
Start looking as soon as you get your admission letter – housing is limited in big cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht.
❓15. Do I need health insurance?
Yes. All students must have valid health insurance.
- EU students: European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- Non-EU students: Buy private international insurance before arriving
- If you work or intern in NL: You may need Dutch basic health insurance
Recommended insurers: Aon, InsureToStudy, Allianz Global Assistance
✈️ Arriving in the Netherlands
❓16. What happens after my visa is approved?
After approval:
- You receive MVV (visa sticker) from the Dutch embassy.
- Book your flight and travel to the Netherlands.
- Report to your university and city hall (gemeente).
- Register your BSN (citizen number) and open a bank account.
- Collect your residence permit card from IND.
❓17. What is a BSN number?
BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is your Dutch citizen service number. You need it to:
- Work part-time
- Open a Dutch bank account
- Access healthcare
- Rent housing
📅 Key Dates & Deadlines
❓18. What are the intake seasons?
- September (Fall) – Main intake (most programs open)
- February (Spring) – Limited programs
Apply at least 6–8 months in advance for visa processing and housing.
❓19. What are application deadlines?
- September intake: Between January and May
- February intake: By October or November
Check your specific program’s page for deadlines.
🔄 Post-Study Options
❓20. Can I stay in the Netherlands after graduation?
Yes! After completing your degree, you can apply for:
- Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar): 1-year post-study work visa for job hunting
- No sponsorship needed
- Allows full-time work and startup opportunities
If you find a job, your employer can sponsor a highly skilled migrant (HSM) visa.
✅ Final Checklist Before Applying
- 📘 Choose a university and course
- 📝 Check entry requirements
- 📤 Apply through Studielink
- 📧 Receive conditional/unconditional offer
- 💳 Pay tuition (partial/full)
- 💼 Submit financial and visa documents
- 🛂 University applies for your visa
- ✈️ Receive approval and travel to the Netherlands
- 🏠 Find accommodation and register locally
📝 Summary
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | MVV (entry visa) + VVR (residence permit) |
| Tuition Fee | €6,000 – €20,000 per year |
| Living Cost Proof | €15,600 for 12 months |
| Processing Time | 6–10 weeks (after document submission) |
| Work While Studying | Yes – part-time allowed |
| Post-Study Visa | 1-year orientation year visa |
If you’re serious about building a future through international education, the Netherlands is a top choice with clear pathways and generous post-study work options. Start early, gather your documents, and don’t hesitate to apply!
