Dutch Student Visa Guide: IND Process, Costs, and Timelines

If you are coming from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you will likely need a residence permit to study in the Netherlands. The process is unique because you cannot apply for the permit yourself—your university must do it for you.

This guide explains the steps, costs, and the "Proof of Funds" requirement you must meet to secure your legal stay.

1. Do You Need a Visa?

Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality:

• EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: You do not need a visa or residence permit. You only need a valid passport or ID.
• Non-EU "Visa-Exempt" Nationalities (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, Australia): You do not need an entry visa (MVV), but you do need a residence permit (VVR) for stays longer than 90 days.
• Other Non-EU Nationalities: You need both an entry visa (MVV) to enter the country and a residence permit (VVR) for your stay.

2. The Role of Your University

In the Netherlands, your university acts as your "Recognized Sponsor." This means:

1. They verify your documents.
2. They submit the application to the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service).
3. They keep the IND updated on your study progress.

3. Financial Requirements (Proof of Funds)

To get a visa, you must prove you can support yourself financially without working. For the 2025/2026 academic year, the requirements are:

Note: You must also prove you have paid (or can pay) your full tuition fees for the first year.

How to prove your funds:

Most students use one of these three methods:

1. Transfer to the University: You transfer the full amount to the university's bank account. They hold it and refund it to your Dutch bank account once you arrive.
2. Bank Statement: Providing an official statement from a bank account in your name.
3. Scholarship: An official letter from a scholarship provider.

4. Costs and Fees

The IND charges a fee (known as leges) to process your application.

• Application Fee (2025/2026): €254
• Administrative Fee: Many universities charge an extra €35–€50 for handling the paperwork.

5. Timeline: When to Start?

The entire process usually takes 2 to 4 months.

1. Accept University Offer: April – May
2. Submit Visa Docs to University: May – June
3. University Submits to IND: June – July
4. IND Approval: 2 to 4 weeks after submission
5. Collect MVV (if applicable): At the Dutch Embassy in your home country.

6. Upon Arrival: Collecting Your Card

Once you arrive in the Netherlands, you don't need to go to the IND immediately.

• Biometrics: You will visit an IND desk to give fingerprints and a photo.
• Collection: About 2 weeks later, you will receive a notification to collect your physical Residence Permit Card.