Studying in NL
Non-EU students need to be aware that an authorization for temporary stay (MVV) in the Netherlands is needed and the educational institution plays an important role in the application procedure. They will apply for the MVV on the student’s behalf and they make use of the so called "accelerated application". The normal procedure for obtaining an authorization for temporary stay (MVV) usually takes between 3 and 6 months. If the educational institution brings in trainees or students from abroad on a regular basis, they may be eligible for the accelerated MVVprocedure, which will take take just a few weeks.
Visa, residence permit and city registration
An entry visa (MVV) is a sticker in your passport issued by the Dutch Embassy or Consulate in your home country (or the country in which you legally reside) and which you might need to enter the Netherlands. A residence permit is a card which allows you to legally reside in the Netherlands. Whether you will need an entry visa and/or a residence permit depends on your nationality. As a residence permit for study purposes is valid for a certain number of years and universities monitor the study progress of all non-EU/EEA students to make sure they can complete their studies within the allowed time frame. Note: Students should always contact the Admissions/Administration Office of an University in view of steps to be taken.
Registration with the municipality
In the Netherlands, all citizens are registered in a national database. This is required by Dutch law. Once you register with the city, you will automatically receive a BSN number, which you need to (for example) open a bank account. All students who are staying in the Netherlands for more than 4 months are required by law to register.
Needed documents
EU/EEA & Swiss students registered as citizens in a country other than the Netherlands need to bring:
Valid passport and/or EU Identity card
If you were born outside the Netherlands a legalized copy of your birth certificate*
For students from the Dutch Antilles, a proof that you have discontinued your registration as a citizen of the Antilles.
*not older than 6 months
All non-EU/EEA students who require a residence permit need to bring:
Valid passport with the MVV-sticker in your passport if your nationality requires this
Legalized copy of your birth certificate*
Letter from the IND confirming your application for the MVV
*not older than 6 months
For more information please check: service desk IND