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Step-by-Step Process for Netherlands Study Visa Requirements

Post Date:- November 25, 2025
Author:- Shiva Krishna HR

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Table of contents

Understanding The Netherlands Study Visa

Step-By-Step Process To Apply For Netherlands Study Visa

Student-Friendly Dutch Banks

How To Open a Bank Account Before Or After Arrival

Affordable Health Insurance For Students

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Conclusion

Are you dreaming of studying in the Netherlands but unsure how to get a study visa? You are not alone. Every year, thousands of Indian students plan to join Dutch universities, yet many face challenges navigating the visa process.

This demand is reflected in the numbers. According to Nuffic, 131,004 international students were enrolled in Dutch higher education in 2024–25, showing how popular it has become. Securing a study visa is the first and most important step because nothing else can happen without it.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through each step of the process, helping you understand what to do and how to prepare so your study abroad journey becomes smoother and less stressful.

Let’s begin by understanding what a Netherlands study visa really is.

Understanding the Netherlands Study Visa

A Netherlands study visa lets non-EU students study in the country for over 90 days because any stay longer than 90 days is treated as long-term under Dutch immigration rules, requiring official permission to enter, study, and live in the Netherlands. If your course is shorter, you might only need a short-stay visa. But most students need an MVV visa, which means a long-stay visa.

To meet the Netherlands study visa requirements, you must have a confirmed admission to a recognised Dutch university. You also need to prove you can support yourself financially, have proper health insurance, and show you intend to return after your studies. Basically, the visa ensures you are a genuine student and will follow the rules while in the Netherlands.

Now that you know what a study visa is, let’s move further.

Step-by-Step Process To Apply For Netherlands Study Visa

Step 1: Get Admission from a Recognized Dutch Institution

Admission is the starting point. You can’t apply for a study visa without it. Most universities will ask for your previous academic records, a personal statement or motivation letter, and proof of English proficiency like IELTS or TOEFL.

Once you receive your acceptance letter, keep it safe as it is required for your visa application. It confirms your admission and may assist with the visa process, so apply on time and follow university deadlines carefully. With your admission confirmed, it’s time to gather all the required documents.

Step 2: Understand the Required Documents

Getting your documents in order is key. Here’s a checklist of what you typically need for a Netherlands study visa:

Valid passport with at least six months of validity left.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
Proof of sufficient funds with at least €1,094.12 per month (or around €13,100 per year or ₹13.46 lakh) such as bank statements or a scholarship letter, showing you can cover tuition and living costs.
Health insurance coverage for your time in the Netherlands.
A motivation letter or statement of purpose explaining why you want to study there.
Academic transcripts and diplomas from your previous education

It is important to provide certified copies and, if needed, translations of documents in Dutch or English. Organising your documents neatly can save you from delays or complications later. After your documents are ready, the next step is applying for the visa itself.

Step 3: Apply for the MVV (Long-Stay Visa)

The MVV visa is required for most students staying in the Netherlands for more than 90 days. You can apply through the Dutch embassy or consulate in India, or sometimes online. The process includes submitting your application, providing all documents, and paying the fee.

Processing usually takes 6 to 12 weeks, though some universities offer assistance to speed it up. Make sure to check the specific Netherlands study visa requirements at your embassy or consulate, as missing documents can delay approval.

Step 4: Apply for the Residence Permit (If Required)

A residence permit is often linked with the MVV visa. Some students receive their permit automatically when their MVV is approved. Others may need to apply separately through the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) in the Netherlands.

You need the same documents as for your visa, and it is essential to keep your residence permit valid so you can live, study, and work legally in the Netherlands.

Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview (If Required)

The next step is interviews, as some embassies or consulates ask students to attend one. This can sound scary but it’s usually simple. The interview helps officials understand your plans and ensures you are a genuine student.

You can prepare by:

Most students find that the interview goes smoothly if they have all their documents and have thought about their answers.

Step 6: Wait for Visa Approval

Visa approval usually takes anywhere between 6 to 12 weeks. Track your application online and avoid non-refundable travel plans. Make sure to use this time to prepare your move, research accommodation, pack essentials, and learn about life in the Netherlands to feel ready and less stressed.

Step 7: Travel and Register in the Netherlands

Once you get your visa, confirm your travel and accommodation. When you arrive, register at your local municipality (BRP) to become a legal resident. If you haven’t received your residence permit yet, collect it. Open a Dutch bank account that meets the required proof of funds, and arrange your health insurance, which costs about €130–€160 per month (₹13,390–₹16,500 per month). Taking care of these steps will help you start your studies smoothly and avoid common problems.

Student-Friendly Dutch Banks

Opening a Dutch bank account is essential for students as it makes paying rent, tuition, and everyday expenses much easier. Here are some banks that are especially student-friendly:

ABN AMRO – Offers a free student account for international students with no monthly fees.
ING – No monthly fees and allows account opening even if you don’t have a Dutch citizen number (BSN) yet
Rabobank – Popular for in-person services and widely used by students.
Online Banks – Digital banks like bunq and Revolut are convenient if you prefer managing your account entirely online.

Let’s get to know how you can open a bank account before reaching Netherlands.

How to Open a Bank Account Before or After Arrival

Start Online: You can apply using your passport and proof of enrollment.
BSN Submission: If you don’t have a BSN yet, most banks give you 90–120 days to provide it.
Required Documents: Passport, proof of admission, and sometimes proof of address.
Backup Option: Keep an international card or some cash handy until your Dutch account is active.

Having a Dutch bank account ensures you can manage your finances smoothly during your studies.

Affordable Health Insurance for Students

Health insurance is mandatory for all students living in the Netherlands. The basic Dutch health insurance, called basisverzekering, usually costs€130–€160 per month (₹13,390–₹16,500)

VinkVink – Fully digital and affordable, starting around €141/month.
VGZ Bewuzt Basis, United Consumers UC Bewuste Keuze, Univé Zorg Select – Plans start at about €129.90/month, making them popular with students. Having proper health insurance ensures you can access medical care and meet legal requirements without stress while studying in the Netherlands.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even small mistakes can delay your visa approval. So make sure to avoid these common issues:

Double-checking everything before submission can save you from stress later. Being organized and careful is always better than rushing at the last moment.

Conclusion

Studying in the Netherlands is exciting, but meeting the Netherlands study visa requirements takes careful planning. By following each step, from admission to registration, you can make the visa process much smoother. Stay organised and keep track of deadlines to make your journey manageable and stress-free.

If you need study abroad loans, QCK Loans is your partner. For expert advice on career consulting, Career Gyan can help you make the right choices. Starting early and getting proper guidance will make your dream of studying in the Netherlands real without stress.

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FAQs

1. How much bank balance is needed according to Netherlands study visa requirements?

You need to show a minimum of €1,094.12 per month (around €13,130 per year) to cover your living costs, in addition to paying your tuition fees.

2. How long does it take to get a Netherlands student visa?

It can vary between 14 and 90 days. Factors such as your nationality, the details of your application, and the time of year can affect how long it takes, with peak months (May to August) often taking longer

3. Are students allowed to work while studying in the Netherlands?

Yes. As a non-EU student with a valid study visa, you can work up to 16 hours per week during the school year or full-time during the summer months (June to August).