Netherlands Student Visa for Indian Students: The Ultimate Guide (2025-2026)

The Netherlands, with its world-class universities, innovative research opportunities, and welcoming, multicultural environment, is an increasingly popular destination for Indian students. If you’re planning to pursue your higher education in this beautiful country, understanding the student visa process is the first crucial step. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Netherlands student visa in 2025 and beyond.

Types of Netherlands Student Visas for Indian Applicants

For Indian students, there are primarily two types of visas to consider, depending on the duration of your course:

Short-Stay Netherlands Student Visa (Schengen Visa)

If your course or research program lasts for less than 90 days, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to travel within the Schengen Area for the duration of your stay.

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Long-Stay Netherlands Student Visa (MVV & VVR Residence Permit)

For courses longer than 90 days, such as a Bachelor's or Master's degree, you will need a long-stay visa, which is a two-part process:

• MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf): This is a provisional residence permit, or an entry visa, that allows you to travel to the Netherlands.
• VVR (Verblijfsvergunning Regulier): This is the residence permit that allows you to live in the Netherlands for the duration of your studies.

A key point to remember for long-stay visas is the TEV (Toegang en Verblijf) procedure, which combines the applications for both the MVV and VVR. The great news for students is that your Dutch university will act as your "recognized sponsor" and apply for the TEV on your behalf.

Netherlands Student Visa Eligibility for Indian Students in 2025-2026

To be eligible for a Netherlands student visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Admission to a Recognised Dutch Institution: You must have a confirmed offer of admission from a Dutch university or educational institution that is recognised by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
• Sufficient Financial Means: You need to prove that you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for at least the first year of your studies. The Dutch government revises this amount periodically, so it's essential to check the latest figures with your university.
• Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance that provides coverage in the Netherlands. Most universities offer special insurance packages for international students.
• Academic and Language Proficiency: You need to meet the academic requirements of your chosen program and provide proof of English language proficiency, typically through IELTS or TOEFL scores.

Documents Required for the Netherlands Student Visa Application

Your university will provide you with a detailed checklist of the documents you need to submit. Generally, this includes:

• A valid passport with at least two blank pages and a validity that extends beyond your intended stay.
• Two recent passport-sized photographs that meet the Dutch specifications.
• A completed and signed visa application form (usually provided by the university).
• The official letter of acceptance from your Dutch university.
• Academic transcripts, diplomas, and certificates.
• Proof of financial resources (e.g., bank statements, scholarship letters, or education loan documents).
• Proof of tuition fee payment.
• Evidence of accommodation arrangements in the Netherlands.
• Your birth certificate.
• A tuberculosis (TB) test may be required upon arrival in the Netherlands.

Netherlands Student Visa: Application Process for Indians in 2025-2026

The application process for a long-stay visa is streamlined, as your university handles a significant portion of it. Here's a step-by-step overview:

1. Receive Your Admission Letter: The process begins once you have been accepted into a full-time program at a recognised Dutch university.
2. Submit Documents to Your University: Your university will request the necessary documents from you to initiate the TEV procedure.
3. University Application to the IND: Your university will submit your visa application to the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
4. Pay the Visa Application Fee: The visa application fee is typically paid to the university, which then pays the IND.
5. IND Decision: The IND usually takes 60 to 90 days to process the application.
6. MVV Approval: Once your application is approved, your university will notify you. You will then need to make an appointment at the VFS Global Centre for the Netherlands in India to have your MVV sticker placed in your passport.
7. Biometrics: At your VFS appointment, you will submit your passport and provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a digital photograph).
8. Travel to the Netherlands: With the MVV in your passport, you can travel to the Netherlands.
9. Collect Your VVR (Residence Permit): Upon arrival, you will need to collect your VVR from the local IND office. Your university will guide you on this process.

Netherlands Student Visa Fees for Indian Students (2025-2026)

The visa fees are subject to change, so it's always best to confirm the latest amounts. As of early 2025, the approximate fees are:

• Long-Stay Visa (MVV + VVR): The fee for the TEV procedure is approximately €210. This is equivalent to roughly ~₹21,063, depending on the exchange rate. This fee is usually paid to your university.
• VFS Global Service Fee: In addition to the visa fee, there will be a service fee charged by VFS Global for their services.

Netherlands Student Visa Processing Time (2025)

The entire process, from the time your university applies to the IND until you receive your MVV, can take 2 to 3 months. It's crucial to start the process as soon as you receive your admission letter to avoid any delays.

Working on a Netherlands Student Visa: Rules for Students

Indian students are permitted to work part-time while studying in the Netherlands. The regulations are as follows:

• You can work for a maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year.
• Alternatively, you can work full-time during the summer months of June, July, and August.

Your employer will need to obtain a work permit (TWV) for you.

Post-Study Work Visa: Staying in the Netherlands After Graduation

The Netherlands offers an "Orientation Year" visa for international graduates, which allows you to stay in the country for up to one year to look for a job or start your own business. This is an excellent opportunity for those who wish to gain international work experience after completing their studies.

Key Takeaways for Your Netherlands Student Visa Application

Embarking on your educational journey to the Netherlands is an exciting prospect. By understanding the visa requirements and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)