Student Residence Permit
Netherlands
Last updated: December 26, 2025
Maximum 5 years
$254
2-4 months
Medium
About this Visa
This is a visa that lets international students study at Dutch universities and colleges. You can stay for the entire length of your study program (up to 5 years) and work part-time while studying. You can apply if you are accepted to a recognized Dutch school. The government gives you a residence permit after you arrive in the Netherlands. Before arriving, you need an entry visa from a Dutch embassy or consulate. In July 2025, the Dutch government decided not to restrict English-language university courses. This means you can still study in English if your program teaches in English.
Key Benefits
- Work part-time 16 hours per week during school, or full-time June-August
- Start your own business (no special permit needed)
- Travel freely throughout Europe
- Get Dutch health insurance
- Work for 1 year after graduation to find a job
- Bring spouse and children once settled
- Path to permanent residency (5 years continuous stay)
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- 18 or older
- Accepted to full-time Dutch school program
- Enough money for tuition and living costs
- English language ability (IELTS 6.0+ usually)
- No serious criminal record
- Pass TB test (unless from low-TB country)
- Valid passport
Financial Requirement
Show €1,094 per month (~$1,290 USD) for living expenses, plus proof of full tuition. That is €13,130 per year. Many Dutch universities want €13,200-€13,800 for safety buffer.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be valid for at least 6 months
- Admission letterProof you are accepted to a Dutch school
- School transcriptsYour high school or previous university grades
- Proof of moneyBank statements showing €13,130+ for the year
- Language test scoreIELTS 6.0+ or equivalent
- Statement of intentWhy you want to study and why this program
- Health insurance proofFor your first 3 months
- Criminal record declarationProof you have no serious crimes (if 12 or older)
- TB test resultRequired unless from low-TB country
- Proof of accommodationConfirmation you have a place to live in Netherlands
- Translated documentsAll non-English/Dutch documents officially translated
- Nuffic CertificateFor Chinese students: most universities still require this to prove education is real
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.