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Visa & Immigration

Netherlands Student Visa

The Netherlands Student Visa combines two documents: the MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf), a provisional residence permit that functions as a long-stay entry visa sticker, and the VVR (Verblijfsvergunning Regulier), the residence permit that covers the full duration of study. Uniquely, students do not apply for either document themselves — only a Dutch educational institution recognised as a sponsor by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) can submit the combined application (known as the TEV procedure) on the student’s behalf. The residence permit for study is valid for the duration of the education plus 3 months, with up to 1 extra year available for preparatory education, and is issued for a maximum period of 5 years. As with every Netherlands Visa category, the final decision on approval rests solely with the IND.

Eligibility

You may obtain a Netherlands Student Visa if:

  • You have been admitted to a full-time programme at a Dutch university or university of applied sciences (HBO) recognised as a sponsor by the IND.
  • Your academic programme is officially accredited (e.g. by NVAO).
  • You can demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover your living expenses in addition to tuition.
  • You hold a valid passport with sufficient remaining validity.
  • You are not a threat to public order (confirmed via an antecedents certificate, where required).

Government Visa Fees

CategoryFee
Student residence permit (first application, change of purpose, or extension)€254 (subject to annual revision on 1 January)
MVV entry visa componentIncluded within the combined TEV application fee, collected via your institution

Costs are typically collected by your educational institution and paid to the IND on your behalf, though the exact fee amount is set by the IND and may be updated each year. Fees are non-refundable, whatever the decision on the application.

 

Processing Time

The IND must take a decision within 60 days of a complete application submission by your educational institution. This period can be extended if the application is incomplete. From offer acceptance to having your MVV in hand, the full process typically takes around 10 to 14 weeks, factoring in document preparation, IND processing, and the embassy appointment to collect the MVV sticker. Processing can take longer during peak application periods, such as before the start of the September intake.

Required Documents Checklist

Valid passport (with sufficient remaining validity, generally at least 6 months when collecting the MVV)
Official, unconditional letter of admission from a Dutch educational institution recognised as an IND sponsor
Proof of financial means to cover living expenses (in addition to tuition)
Health/travel insurance proof
Antecedents certificate (declaration regarding public order), where required
Passport photos meeting Dutch passport photo requirements
A confirmed Dutch address (university housing, private rental, or homestay)
TB test referral or exemption documentation, depending on nationality

Step-by-Step Application Process

Secure an unconditional offer of admission from a Dutch educational institution recognised as an IND sponsor, and confirm your place (e.g. by paying a tuition deposit).
Provide your institution with all required documents, including proof of finances, insurance, and a confirmed Dutch address.
Your institution submits the combined TEV application (MVV + residence permit) to the IND on your behalf.
The IND reviews the application and issues a decision within 60 days.
Once approved, book an appointment at the Dutch embassy or consulate to collect your MVV sticker, providing biometrics.
Travel to the Netherlands within 90 days of collecting your MVV.
Register with the local municipality (gemeente) to receive your BSN (citizen service number).
Complete a TB test if required based on your nationality, and collect your residence permit card at an IND desk.

Important Notes

You cannot apply for the MVV or residence permit yourself — only your recognised sponsor institution can submit the application.
The MVV sticker is valid for 90 days from collection; you must travel to the Netherlands and collect your residence permit within that window.
The residence permit is valid for the duration of your studies plus 3 months, up to a maximum of 5 years.
Some nationalities are exempt from the TB test requirement (including EU/EEA countries, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Suriname, and the UK).
If you finish your studies, you may be able to change your residence permit to look for work or to work as a highly skilled migrant.
Fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
Providing false or incomplete information about the media assignment may result in visa refusal.

Why Choose Shivansh Consultants

A Netherlands Student Visa application requires accurate documentation, a valid admission letter from a recognized Dutch educational institution, proof of financial means, and compliance with the requirements of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Missing or incorrect documents may lead to delays or visa refusal. Shivansh Consultants provides Documentation Support, Eligibility Assessment, and a thorough Application Review to help you submit a complete and accurate application.

Our experienced visa consultants offer Personalized Guidance, a Transparent Process, and End-to-End Assistance—from document preparation to application submission support. We help simplify your Netherlands Student Visa application while ensuring it meets the latest requirements. Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for my Netherlands student visa myself?
No. Only your Dutch educational institution, as a recognised IND sponsor, can submit the combined MVV and residence permit (TEV) application on your behalf.
What is the difference between the MVV and the residence permit?
The MVV is a sticker visa that allows you to travel to the Netherlands, valid for 90 days from collection. The residence permit (VVR) is the card that covers your legal stay for the duration of your studies, collected after you arrive and register with the municipality.
How much does a Netherlands Student Visa cost?
The IND fee for a student residence permit is €254, typically collected by your institution and paid on your behalf. This fee is reviewed annually.
How long does the Netherlands Student Visa process take?
The IND must decide within 60 days of a complete submission. From offer acceptance to having your MVV in hand, the overall process typically takes 10 to 14 weeks.
Do I need a TB test for a Netherlands Student Visa?
This depends on your nationality. Citizens of the EU/EEA, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Suriname, and the UK are generally exempt; others may need to undergo a TB test after arrival.