How to get a Netherlands student visa: fees, funds, documents and timeline
MVV entry visa and residence permit, applied for by the university at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa | MVV entry visa and residence permit, applied for by the university |
| Application fee | €243 (2025), paid to the university |
| Health cover | Student insurance, budgeted above |
| Funds to show | About €1,250 a month for the year (the 2025 norm), usually transferred to the university in advance |
| Validity | Length of the study programme plus 3 months |
| Post-study route | Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) residence permit: 12 months |
How to apply, step by step
- Accept the offer and pay tuition and living-cost transfer as instructed
- The university applies to the IND on your behalf
- Collect the MVV sticker at the Dutch embassy once approved (usually within 2 to 4 weeks)
- Register with the municipality and collect the residence card after arrival
Documents checklist
- Admission letter
- Proof of funds (transfer to university or bank statements)
- Passport and photo
- Antecedents certificate
- TB test after arrival for some nationalities
- Diplomas and English test (IELTS 6.0 to 6.5)
Financial evidence
About €1,250 a month for the year (the 2025 norm), usually transferred to the university in advance. Education loans from recognised lenders are accepted. Money must be in your name or a parent's with a consent letter, and statements must be recent. Our loan partners issue sanction letters that visa offices recognise.
After you graduate
Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) residence permit: 12 months. Apply within 3 years of graduation. Work freely during the year.
Working on a student visa
16 hours a week during term (employer needs a work permit) or full time in June, July and August. Minimum wages of €14.06 an hour minimum wage for over-21s (2025).
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Do Dutch universities need IELTS?
Yes in most cases, typically 6.0 for HBO and 6.5 for research universities. Some accept TOEFL, Cambridge or a degree taught in English.
How hard is it to find housing in the Netherlands?
Very hard in Amsterdam, Utrecht and Leiden. Universities have limited reserved rooms; apply for them the day you accept your offer. We help students search from home and avoid scams.
Can I stay after graduating?
Yes, the Orientation Year gives 12 months to look for work. Many students use it to move into a Highly Skilled Migrant permit.