How to Apply for a Netherlands Student Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

The first step to apply for a Netherlands student visa is to enrol as a student in a Dutch educational institution. The institute then begins the visa processing. It submits your admission-related documents to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Once they get approval, you can begin the visa process by submitting relevant documents at a Dutch immigration portal online.

To know more about the Netherlands student visa requirements, its success rate and how to apply, read on.

How to Apply for a Student Visa for the Netherlands?

The 90% to 98% Netherlands student visa success rate encourages international students to apply and immerse themselves in world-class education, picturesque landscapes, eventful and vibrant student life, and so much more.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a student visa for the Netherlands:

Step 1: Receive your admission letter from a Dutch Education Institution.

Step 2: Gather necessary documents before filling out the visa application form for a Netherlands student visa online. For a complete visa application, the Netherlands study visa requirements are:

1.  A valid passport
2. Health Insurance
3. Financial statements
4. Address proof
5. Admission Letter
6. Academic transcripts
7. Accommodation proof in the Netherlands
8. Language Proficiency (TOEFL, GRE, IELTS)
9. Passport-sized photograph

Step 3: Submit your visa application form online along with the soft copies of the above-mentioned documents.

Step 4: Pay the Netherlands visa fee, which is €76 for multiple entries and remains valid for 5 years.

Step 5: After payment completion, you will receive a date for an interview at a Dutch consulate or embassy. The interview helps in identifying your preparedness and verifying your intent to visit the Netherlands.

Step 6: Depending on the city you are applying from and the volume of applications, the visa processing time varies. Generally, it takes 4 to 8 weeks.

Step 7: You will receive your Netherlands student visa once the verification and approval are complete.

Who Can Apply for a Netherlands Student Visa?

Students from Non-EU (Outside of the European Union) or European Economic Area (EEA) countries require a student visa to be eligible to live and study in the Netherlands. Such countries include India, China, Brazil, Nigeria, etc.

What are the Types of Netherlands Students Visa?

There are two types of Netherlands study visa:

Netherlands Short-stay Student Visa (Schengen Short-stay Visa or Type C visa)

A short-stay student visa (Type C) enables you to study or visit the Netherlands or any other Schengen country for a maximum of 90 days within a total of 6 months' period. The visa could be shorter than 90 days. Students visiting the Netherlands to participate in exchange programs and short-term training courses are eligible for this kind of visa. 

Netherlands Long-stay student Visa (MVV and VVR)

The MVV or the Netherlands long-stay student visa (Type D) allows students who are planning to stay and study in the Netherlands for a period of more than 90 days. This provisional residence permit remains valid for 3 months and provides students sufficient time to get their VVR or residence permit. An applicant can apply for a VVR after reaching the Netherlands.

Whereas for MVV, the applicant must enrol at a Dutch education institution, for a VVR, it is crucial to show sufficient financial means to cover living expenses in the Netherlands.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for a Netherlands Student Visa?

To obtain a student visa for the Netherlands, the applicants need to meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. They need to have an official admission letter to a Dutch educational institution.
2. Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through tests such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or GRE.
3. It is mandatory to demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover living expenses.
4. Students with scholarships need to submit relevant scholarship documents.
5. Health insurance is valid throughout the course period.
6. Relevant academic qualification records that meet the admission standards at the institution the applicants are applying to. 

When to Apply for a Netherlands Student Visa?

The best time to apply for a student visa for the Netherlands is three to six months prior to the beginning of an academic year. Such as:

1. For the September intake, you need to apply between February and May
2. For February intake: Apply between August and October

When you apply at a Dutch institution, it takes about 2 to 4 weeks for your visa request to reach the IND. So, it is ideal to wait during this time.

Final Words

For Indian students, the primary eligibility criteria for a Netherlands student visa are being enrolled at a Dutch educational institution. If you are concerned about financial arrangements, you can apply for the Amsterdam Merit Scholarships for students of science, the Ritchie Jenning Memorial Scholarship for students of law, finance and business administration. It is important to note that only students with outstanding academic records are eligible to apply for these scholarships.

Planning to apply for a Netherlands student visa? Do not forget to get travel insurance from Bajaj General Insurance. Although it is not a legal mandate to enter the Netherlands, travel experts recommend it highly since it helps in avoiding additional unexpected expenses while staying in the Netherlands.

FAQs

How Much financial balance do I have to show to get a Netherlands student visa?

While applying for a Netherlands student visa, you have to show sufficient financial proof of at least €1200 per month. It is the minimum amount to cover living expenses in the Netherlands. However, the amount you need to show during a student visa application varies from one university to another, and is subject to change. Therefore, it is necessary to check with the university you are applying to beforehand.

What is the processing time for a Netherlands student visa from India?

The processing time for a Netherlands student visa usually ranges between 4 to 8 weeks. It may vary depending on document verification, university approval, and embassy workload.

How do I apply for a student visa for the Netherlands?

The process of applying for a Netherlands student visa begins with securing admission to a recognised Dutch institution. Next, gather the required documents, such as academic records, ID proof, address proof, and financial statements.

Complete the visa application form, submit the documents, book an interview, and attend it at the Dutch embassy or consulate. After paying the visa fee, your application undergoes verification, which may take several weeks. Once approved, you can collect the visa or receive it at your address.

How long is a Netherlands student visa valid for?

A Netherlands student visa is generally valid for the duration of your academic programme. It may be issued initially for one year and renewed annually based on course continuation.

Do I have to apply for a Netherlands student visa online?

Yes, Indians have to start the application for a Netherlands student visa online via the VFS Global portal. After you start the initial process online by submitting the application form and necessary documents, you have to visit the Dutch consulate or the embassy in person for the further steps. It includes an interview, visa fees payment and physical document verification.

Is it possible to work if I go to the Netherlands with a student visa?

Yes, it is possible to work if you go to the Netherlands with a student visa. However, there are certain rules. You can only work for 16 hours a week during the academic year and full-time during the summer months, June, July and August.

What are the Netherlands student visa requirements?

To apply for a Netherlands student visa, you need a valid passport (minimum 6 months' validity), proof of sufficient funds, academic records, birth certificate, photographs, health insurance, and a completed application form. Although travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to avoid unexpected expenses during your stay.

Can I get a Scholarship for studying in the Netherlands as an Indian?

Yes, there are multiple scholarships for which you, as an Indian, can apply to be able to study in the Netherlands, such as Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship, Amsterdam Merit Scholarship, Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award and so on. These scholarships cover tuition fees, admission fees and sometimes even living expenses. However, these scholarships are extremely competitive and require excellent academic records.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.