Netherlands Student Visa Guide
MVV + residence permit for study
Your Dutch university (a recognised sponsor) applies to the IND on your behalf for an entry visa (MVV) and residence permit. You must show €1,130.77 a month for 2026.
Last checked against the official source on 2026-09-30.
- Application fee
- €254
- Processing
- Usually a few weeks via your university; start early
- Validity
- Length of your study programme plus preparation year if applicable
- Work rights
- Up to 16 hours a week, or full-time in June, July and August (your employer needs a work permit for you). Orientation year afterwards to look for work.
Netherlands student visa costs
| Cost | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residence permit fee | €254 | About ₹28,000; often paid via your university |
| Means of support | €1,130.77 a month (2026) | About ₹14.9 lakh for 12 months |
| Tuition (per year) | Typically €10,000–25,000 | About ₹11–27 lakh; varies by programme |
| Orientation year permit (after study) | €254 | To look for work after graduating |
Document checklist
- ✓Admission from a Dutch recognised-sponsor institution
- ✓Proof of means of support€1,130.77 a month in 2026 (the IND study norm), usually for 12 months.
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Antecedents certificateA declaration about criminal history.
- ○TB test (optional)Required for some nationalities after arrival; your university will tell you.
Step-by-step process
- 1
Accept your offer
Your university starts the IND application as your sponsor.
- 2
Transfer funds and fees
Many universities ask you to pay the €254 fee and show funds (often by transferring them to the university).
- 3
IND decision
Once approved, collect your MVV entry visa at the Dutch embassy or VFS in India.
- 4
Arrive and register
Collect your residence permit and register with your municipality.
Interview tips
- There is usually no interview: the university handles the application, so reply quickly to its document requests.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using last year’s monthly amount: the study norm changes every 1 January.
- Missing the university’s deadline for visa documents, which comes well before the course starts.
- Working without the employer arranging a work permit.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need for a Netherlands student visa?
€1,130.77 a month in 2026, usually shown for 12 months. The amount changes every 1 January.
Who applies for my Dutch student visa?
Your university, as a recognised sponsor, applies to the IND on your behalf.
How many hours can I work in the Netherlands as a student?
Up to 16 hours a week, or full-time in June, July and August, and your employer must arrange a work permit.
Can I stay in the Netherlands after graduation?
Yes. The orientation year residence permit lets graduates stay for a year to look for work.
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Official source: https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits/study/student-residence-permit-for-university-or-higher-professional-education. General guidance only — verify current requirements before applying.