How to obtain a Visa & Residence Permit
Whether or not you need a visa and a residence permit depends on: your purpose of stay, the length of your stay and your nationality.
Visa & Residence Permit
Both a visa (MVV) and a residence permit (VVR)
Who needs both a visa and a residence permit, application requirements, procedure & TB test.
Only a residence permit (VVR)
Who needs a residence permit (VVR), but not a visa?
Short Stay / Schengen Visa
Stay of up to 90 days
Change of "Purpose of stay"
When is a new residence permit required? How do I arrange a change of “purpose of stay”? Staying in the Netherlands to seek work after graduation.
Extension of your Dutch Residence Permit
All Dutch residence permits for the purpose of study are issued for up to 1 academic year only. If your residence permit expires and you wish to continue your studies at Leiden University you will need to extend your residence permit (VVR).
Re-entry visa (Return visa)
If you want to travel abroad and you do not (yet) have a valid residence permit or your permit expired, you can leave the Netherlands, but not re-enter.
Visa & Residence Permit Finances
Non-European students who come to the Netherlands for study at a university may need an entry visa (MVV) and/or a residence permit (VVR). To obtain these permits you will have to prove that you have enough money to cover your entire stay (living expenses excluding tuition fees). The Dutch ministry of Justice has set standard amounts for this purpose. On this page you can read more about financial aspects to consider.
Required documents and fees
The Admissions Office will apply for the entry visa (MVV) and residence permit (VVR) on your behalf once you have returned your ‘acceptance of admission offer form’ and provided the following documents, fees and information.