Visa & Residency
What You Need to Legally Study in the Netherlands
Admission alone does not give you the legal right to live in the Netherlands. Your residency depends on nationality, registration, and financial proof.
This guide explains what you must arrange before and after arrival.
EU / EEA Students
EU students do not need a visa to study
However, you must:
Register with your municipality
Obtain a BSN number
Provide proof of enrolment
Registration is required if staying longer than four months.
Municipal Registration (BRP)
You need:
Housing address
Passport or ID
Rental contract
University enrolment confirmation
Without registration, you cannot:
Work legally
Open bank account
Apply for DUO
Housing is required first.
University Scholarships (Major Institutions)
Many universities offer scholarships.
Examples include:
University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship
Utrecht Excellence Scholarship
Maastricht High Potential Scholarship
Delft Excellence Scholarship
NHL Stenden also offers scholarships for selected international students.
Competition is high.
Non-EU Students
Non-EU students require:
Entry visa (MVV)
Residence permit (VVR)
Financial proof
Health insurance
Your university usually coordinates the process.
Residence Permit (VVR)
You must provide:
Passport
Admission letter
Financial proof
Processing is handled by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
Financial Requirement
You must prove sufficient funds for:
Tuition
Living expenses
This is typically calculated for 12 months.
Timeline for Non-EU Students
4–6 months before start:
Accept admission
Submit documents
2–3 months before start:
Receive visa approval
After arrival:
Register municipality
Collect residence permit
Do not travel without confirmation.
BSN (Citizen Service Number)
The BSN is essential
You need it for:
Employment
Bank account
Health insurance
Student finance
You receive it after municipal registration.
Health Insurance Requirements
EU Students
May use EHIC temporarily.
If working, Dutch public insurance becomes mandatory.
Non-EU Students
Must have:
Dutch insurance if employed
OR
Approved international insurance
Insurance is required by law.
Working While on a Student Visa
EU Students
No work restrictions.
Non-EU Students
Maximum 16 hours per week during term.
Employer must arrange permit.
Residence Permit Duration
Valid for programme duration.
Requires continued enrolment.
Post-Graduation Stay (Orientation Year)
Non-EU graduates may apply for a 12-month orientation visa to find work.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Arriving without housing
Missing registration deadlines
Ignoring insurance
Plan carefully.
City Registration Delays
Appointments fill quickly in major cities.
Leeuwarden and Groningen often have faster availability.
Book early.
Checklist Before Arrival
Passport
Admission letter
Housing contract
Financial proof
Insurance
Final Advice
Legal preparation is essential
Housing enables registration
Registration enables everything else