Long-stay visas (Type D)
Dutch Student Residence Permit (University or Higher Professional Education)
A residence permit for non-EU students admitted to a recognised Dutch university or higher-education institution, applied for on their behalf by the school.
Important information
- Issued by
- Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
- Who applies
- The recognised educational institution (sponsor), not the student
- Financial requirement
- Proof of sufficient means to live and study for 12 months
- Progress requirement
- At least 50% of annual study credits each year
- Duration
- Length of the programme plus 3 months
Who it's for
International students from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland admitted to an accredited Dutch higher-education programme at a recognised institution.
Requirements
- Admission to a full-time programme at an IND-recognised educational institution
- Proof of sufficient financial means for living and study costs for 12 months
- A valid passport
- No public-order objections; TB test where required by nationality
- Commitment to achieve at least 50% of annual credits
What you can do
- Study full-time at your Dutch institution
- Work a limited number of hours (part-time during the year, or full-time in summer) with a work permit arranged by the employer
- Apply for the Orientation Year after graduating to seek skilled work
- Bring family members under family reunification (subject to conditions)
How to apply
Your educational institution submits the combined MVV and residence permit application to the IND on your behalf.
You provide proof of funds and documents to the institution, which handles the IND process.
After approval, collect the MVV abroad if required, travel to the Netherlands, register with the municipality and collect your residence card.
Documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of admission / enrolment at the recognised institution
- Proof of sufficient financial means for 12 months
- Antecedents (public order) declaration
- TB test appointment/exemption depending on nationality
Frequently asked questions
No. Only the recognised educational institution can apply for your study residence permit and MVV. You supply the required documents and funds proof to the school.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Dutch visas
- WORKEMPLOYER SPONSORSALARY THRESHOLDHighly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant)The Netherlands' main work route, in which an IND-recognised employer sponsors a foreign national who earns above a set gross monthly salary threshold.View visa details
- WORKEU-WIDEHIGHLY QUALIFIEDEuropean Blue CardThe EU-wide highly qualified worker permit, granted on a recognised higher-education qualification plus a salary above the Blue Card threshold.View visa details
- JOB SEEKERGRADUATESONE YEAROrientation Year for Highly Educated Persons (Zoekjaar)A one-year job-seeker permit letting recent graduates and researchers find skilled work or start an innovative business in the Netherlands.View visa details
