phd student visa netherlands

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Netherlands - Researcher

Are you a non-EU citizen wishing to carry out research in the Netherlands? You can find information below on the conditions to fulfill and procedures to follow, as well as the rights you can enjoy during your stay.

A scientific researcher under Directive 2005/71/EC is a non-EU national holding an appropriate higher education qualification, which gives access to doctoral programmes, who is selected by a research organisation for carrying out a research project for which the above qualification is normally required.

PhD students and guest researchers are also included within this scope.

You will need a provisional residence permit (mvv) and/or a residence permit . The provisional residence permit is a special visa for stays of more than three months in the Netherlands.

Not everyone needs a provisional residence permit to apply for a residence permit in the Netherlands. Nationals of Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, South Korea, the United States and the Vatican are exempt from the provisional residence permit requirement. There are also other specific circumstances under which a provisional residence permit is not required.

Conditions to migrate to the Netherlands as a scientific researcher

No information available at the moment.

• Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) (Home)
• New to Holland
• Diplomatic missions abroad

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Visa & residence information

Learn more about requesting new and extending or changing current visas or residence permits.

Are you employed by Wageningen University & Research or do you bring your family to the Netherlands? Then contact the website of the Welcome Center Food Valley to arrange your visa and residence permit. Are you a scholarship PhD candidate and are you coming to the Netherlands without a family? Then the information on this page applies to you.

New visa or residence permit

Who can apply for a visa and residence permit.

The Doctoral Service Centre can arrange a visa and residence permit for a PhD candidate if:

• The PhD candidate has been admitted to the WU PhD programme (diplomas or qualifying exam have been approved and proficiency in the English language is considered sufficient);
• The PhD candidate comes without a family;
• The PhD candidate has a scholarship or own financing for living allowances of at least the amount that the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service requires. This amount is adjusted twice a year on 1 January and 1 July and is € 1565,-/month between 1 January 2024 and 1 July 2024;
• The PhD candidate is not employed by WUR;
• The PhD candidate stays for a period longer than 3 months.

When to apply for a residence permit (and entry visa)

The Doctoral Service Centre can apply for a residence permit (and entry visa) if a contact person from the chair group sends a complete submission to the Doctoral Service Centre at the latest 11 weeks before the intended start of the visa.

The visa costs are € 228,-. These and any other additional costs related to the migration will be passed on to the chair group.

How to apply

A contact person from the chair group sends all documents stated below in one email to the Doctoral Service Centre via [email protected] .

During the course of the application procedure, the PhD candidate and the applicant will receive information and instructions from the Doctoral Service Centre.

Requested documents

( NOTE: all documents that must be signed by the PhD candidate must be checked for the right signature. The signature must be the same as on the passport)

• The forms antecedents certificate , permission to use personal details and information form PhD candidates filled in by the candidate;
• The information form chair group filled in by the contact person from the chair group;
• A clear scan of the passport (with signature, personal details page and stamped pages). The passport must still be valid for at least 6 months when the Doctoral Service Centre submits the application to the IND.;
• The signed form: Hosting agreement Doctoral Service Centre . Please see the instruction . For more information on applying 'kassier' for scholarship funds from external scholarship providers to PhD candidates see the intranet page Promovendibeleid;
• Proof of sufficient finances for the requested period of residence consisting of:
• The form Income Statement , filled in and signed by the PhD candidate;
• When a scholarship is paid directly to the PhD candidate by the scholarship provider: we need the scholarship letter (specifying the costs of living and period);
• When the PhD candidate receives the living allowances from the grant provider via WUR through the "kassiersfunctie": we need the letter of agreement and the grant award letter + a reference in the hosting Agreement at point 5 that the living allowances of the PhD candidate will be received bij WUR from the grant provider and transferred from WUR to the PhD candidate by using the kassierfunctie;
• When the PhD candidate finances the stay him-/herself: we need an recent bank statement (with an amount of at least the amount that the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service requires) for each month of the requested stay in the Netherlands. This amount is adjusted twice a year on 1 January and 1 July and is € 1565,-/month between 1 January 2024 and 1 July 2024;
• When the PhD candidate receives covid-19 compensation in the period of stay: we would like to receive the addendum Covid-19 compensation, the approval letter of the application for covid-19 compensation from the Dean of Research and a proof of payment of the covid-19 compensation to the PhD candidate (latest item can be send in later and may consist of a bank statement of the PhD candidate or a signed payment request from the chair group).

Overview of needed forms

Ind antecedents certificate, ind-tev permission to use personal details and tbc, ind-tev information form phd candidate, ind information form chair group, ind hosting agreement doctoral service centre, ind income statement, extension of residence permit, who can apply for an extension of the residence permit, when to apply for an extension of the residence permit.

The Doctoral Service Centre can extend your residence permit if a contact person from your chair group sends a complete submission to the Doctoral Service Centre at the latest  6 weeks before  the current residence permit ends.

If you have the plan to travel immediately after the start date of the extension of the residence permit, please note that the application must be submitted to us at latest  10 weeks before  the start date, otherwise it could be that the residence permit card is not ready before departure.

The costs for extension of the residence permit are € 228,-. These costs will be passed on to the chair group.

A contact person from the chair group sends all documents stated below in one email to the Doctoral Service Centre via  [email protected] .

( NOTE:  all documents that must be signed by the PhD candidate must be checked for the right signature. The signature must be the same as on the passport)

• Copy of the front and back of the current residence permit pass;
• The signed form: Hosting agreement Doctoral Service Centre . Please see the instruction ;
• When a scholarship is paid directly to the PhD candidate by the scholarship provider: we need the sholarship letter (specifying the costs of living and period);
• When the PhD candidate receives the living allowances from the grant provider via WUR through the 'kassiersfunctie': we need the letter of agreement and the grant award letter + a reference in the Hosting Agreement at point 5 that the living allowances of the PhD cadidate will be received by WUR from the grand provider and transferred from WUR to the PhD candidate by using the kassierfunctie. Voor meer informatie over het toepassen 'kassier' voor beursgelden van externe beursverstrekkers aan PhD kandidaten zie de intranetpagina Promovendibeleid;

Overview of forms needed

Ind-extension permission to use personal details, ind-extension information form phd candidate, chaging a residence permit, who can apply for a change of purpose of a residence permit.

The Doctoral Service Centre can arrange the change of the purpose of a residence permit for a PhD candidate if:

When to apply for a change of purpose of a residence permit?

The Doctoral Service Centre can assist to change the purpose of your residence permit if a contact person from your chair group sends a complete submission to the PhD office at the latest   6 weeks before   the current residence permit ends.

If you have the plan to travel immediately after the start date of the change of purpose of the residence permit, please note that the application must be submitted to us at latest  10 weeks before  the start date, otherwise it could be that the residence permit card is not ready before departure.

• Copy of the front and back of the current permit residence pass;
• When the PhD candidate finances the stay him-/herself: we need an recent bank statement (with an amount of at least the amount that the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service requires) for each month of the requested stay in the Netherlands. This amount is adjusted twice a year on 1 January and 1 July and is € 1509,-/month between 1 July 2023 and 1 January 2024;

IND-change purpose permission to use personal details.pdf

Ind-change purpose information form phd candidate.pdf.

Residence permit researcher (Directive (EU) 2016/801)

Under Directive (EU) 2016/801 you are allowed to work as a researcher in the Netherlands.  Find out what the requirements are and how your employer applies for the permit.

What is the residence permit for researcher Directive (EU) 2016/801

The researcher residence permit under Directive (EU) 2016/801 is a work and residence permit for researchers from outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland. Your employer can apply for a researcher residence permit for you in the following situations:

• You live outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you are going to conduct research in the Netherlands. You are applying for a researcher residence permit for the first time. 
• You have a researcher residence permit under Directive (EU) 2016/801 in another EU country. You plan to come to the Netherlands to conduct research for more than 180 days under the Intra-EU mobility scheme. This is called long-term mobility.

Short-term intra-EU mobility for less than 180 days

Do you want to conduct research in the Netherlands for less than 180 days? And you have a residence permit as a researcher under the Directive in another EU country? Then go to Short-term mobility as a researcher .   

Requirements

The following requirements apply to a researcher residence permit under Directive (EU) 2016/801:

• You meet the requirements that apply to everyone .
• Paid researcher.
• Unpaid researcher with a grant.
• Doctoral (Phd) candidate.
• You plan to conduct research at a research institute in the Netherlands. This research institute (hereinafter referred to as: employer) is a recognised sponsor . You can check the public register of recognised sponsors whether your employer has been recognised as a sponsor.
• You have a higher education degree. This degree gives you access to the doctoral programme. Your employer determines whether your degree is suitable. Do you not have a suitable degree? Then your employer must declare that you have the appropriate level.
• The aim of the research.
• The duration of the research.
• The amount of money needed to conduct the research.
• The title or aim of the research.
• A statement that you will try to conduct all of the research.
• A statement by the research institute that it will host you with the aim of having the research completed.
• Start date and end date of the research. Or the estimated duration of the research.
• Information on research you are going to do in other EU countries, if this information is known.
• The legal relationship between you and your employer. For example a labour contract.
• Your terms and conditions of employment. 
• You are going to earn sufficient income . Will you not receive a salary from your Dutch employer? Then you must have other income, for example a grant, stipend or money from a sponsor. Or you have sufficient money in your bank account for the time you are in the Netherlands.
• Are you going to work as an individual healthcare professional? Then you must be listed in the register of individual healthcare professionals (in Dutch: BIG-register ).

Additional requirements for long-term mobility

• You are going to conduct research in the Netherlands for more than 180 days.
• You have a residence permit for researchers in another EU country under Directive (EU) 2016/801. This residence permit will be valid for the entire period that you are in the Netherlands.
• Your research programme states that you are going to conduct research in 1 or more other EU countries.

Find which other requirements may apply to Turkish nationals and their family members .

Process and costs

These are the steps in the application process for the researcher residence permit:.

A valid provisional residence permit (MVV) is needed for this application

Make sure you meet the requirements.

The application form lists which documents you need. Collect all documents before you apply. 

Have official documents from abroad legalised and translated into Dutch, English, French or German.

The application form lists which documents you need. Collect all documents before you apply.

Your employer can submit this application online or in writing by post. Your employer applies for the MVV and the residence permit at the same time.

Your employer can submit this application online or in writing by post. Are you already in the Netherlands? Then your employer must do this within 3 months after you have travelled to the Netherlands.  

The application costs € 228,00. See the page Fees: application costs for an explanation .

Your employer pays the costs automatically by direct debit.

The IND must take a decision within a 60-day decision period.

We can extend the decision period if it takes longer to decide. For example, because the application is not complete. You will then receive a letter.

Follow the application in My IND .

What if the IND decides late

Has the decision period passed? And do you still not have a decision on your application?  Find out what you can do if the IND is late with its decision .

You will receive a message with the decision. The decision will be positive or negative.

• Positive decision: you will get an MVV and a residence permit.
• Negative decision: you will not receive an MVV and residence permit. You can object against this decision .

You will receive the decision in a letter. The decision will be positive or negative.

• Positive decision: you will get a residence permit.
• Negative decision: you will not receive a residence permit. You can object against this decision . 

You can travel to the Netherlands with the MVV. You collect the MVV at the Dutch representation that is filled in on the application form.

The MVV is valid for 90 days.

Collect MVV within 3 months of decision

Make an appointment at the Dutch representation to collect the MVV.

Valid passport required

When the Dutch representation places the MVV in your passport, your passport must be valid for at least another 6 months.

You must have your biometrics taken when you collect the MVV. You must take 1 new passport photo with you. You will also provide your signature and have your fingerprints taken.

When the residence permit is ready at an IND desk, you will receive a letter. You must make an appointment to collect it. Make an appointment to collect the residence document .

When the residence permit is ready at an IND desk, you will receive a letter. You must make an appointment to collect it. Make an appointment to collect the residence document .   

Application forms

Your employer can submit this application online., more information on access to and the possibilities in business portal, written application forms, the residence permit, find out what else you need to know about the residence permit:.

Did your employer indicate at the time of the application that you will take a TB (tuberculosis) test? Then make an appointment with the public health service (in Dutch: Gemeenschappelijke Gezondheidsdienst or GGD). Do this within 3 months after you have received your residence permit. Bring to the appointment the

Working with the residence permit

With this residence permit, you may work without a work permit (in Dutch: tewerkstellingsvergunning or TWV). The back of the residence permit says in Dutch ' Arbeid vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist ' (Work permitted without restrictions. TWV not required). However, you must continue to meet the requirements for the researcher residence permit under Directive (EU) 2016/801.

Legal obligations

As a recognised sponsor, your employer has an obligation of due care, an obligation to provide information and an obligation to keep records. Only an obligation to provide information applies to you. 

Find out more about the legal obligations of the sponsor or recognised sponsor and the foreign national’s obligation to provide information . 

The IND checks whether you meet your obligations. And if you do not do so? Then you can get an administrative fine .

Validity of residence permit

The residence permit is valid just as long as your contract with the research institute. The residence permit is valid for 5 years at most.

In case of long-term mobility, the residence permit is valid for just as long as your host agreement with the research institute in the Netherlands.

Intra-EU mobility: conducting research in another EU country

Under the Directive, you can conduct research temporarily in another EU country (except Denmark and Ireland). This is called intra-EU mobility. There are 2 types of intra-EU mobility:

• Short-term mobility for 180 days at most. As long as your Dutch residence permit is valid, you do not need to apply for a residence permit in the other country. But you may have to report your stay to the immigration service of the other country.
• Long-term mobility for more than 180 days. You must apply for a separate research residence permit in the other country. Inquire at the immigration service of the country where you want to conduct research.

Notification of research in another EU country

Are you also going to conduct research in another EU country? Then your employer must notify  the IND of this. This must be done 4 weeks at most before the mobility starts. Your employer must use the following form to do so:

Other applications

Replacement of residence permit.

Has the residence permit been damaged, lost or stolen? Then have the residence document replaced. Visit the web page residence permit damaged or change details or residence permit lost or stolen .

Extension of residence permit

Will the residence permit expire soon? Then you can extend the residence permit .

Permanent residence permit

Have you had a residence permit for 5 years? Then you can apply for a permanent residence permit . 

• Living in the Netherlands
• Travelling with a residence permit and return visa
• Short-term mobility as a researcher
• Recognition as a sponsor
• Coming to work in the Netherlands 3086 (PDF, 588.87 KB)
• Employing a foreign national

Rules and regulations

• ​ Directive (EU) 2016/801
• Article 3.33 Aliens Decree (Vreemdelingenbesluit 2000)
• B6/2.4  Aliens Act Implementation Guidelines (Vreemdelingencirculaire 2000)
• B6/3.1.3 Aliens Act Implementation Guidelines (Vreemdelingencirculaire 2000)
• B6/4.4 Aliens Act Implementation Guidelines (Vreemdelingencirculaire 2000)
• Article 3.20d Aliens Regulations (Voorschrift Vreemdelingen 2000)
• Article 4.36 Aliens Regulations (Voorschrift Vreemdelingen 2000)

Responsible organisation

Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst

Questions? ​

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Residence permit for orientation year

Highly educated persons can apply for a residence permit for orientation year. As a holder of this residence permit, you are allowed to work in the Netherlands without any restrictions for 1 year. Find out who can apply for this residence permit and how to apply.

On this page

A residence permit for highly educated persons, apply for the ‘orientation year’ within 3 years, application conditions, how to apply for the residence permit, validity of the residence permit, changing the residence permit, do you have more questions about the ‘orientation year’.

The Dutch government considers it important that highly educated persons have time to launch their careers or start a business in the Netherlands. Dutch employers also benefit because recently graduated talent stays in the Netherlands or is attracted to move here. This is why the residence permit for orientation year was created.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘orientation year for highly educated persons’ or ‘orientation year’, this is a 1-year residence permit for recently graduated students, PhD graduates, and researchers. The permit offers the holder time to search for a job as a highly skilled employee or to develop a business idea. During the year, employers do not need to apply for a separate work permit ( tewerkstellingsvergunning , TWV) for the employee.

You can apply for the ‘orientation year’ within 3 years of completing your studies, obtaining your PhD, or finishing your research. The permit is often used by students and researchers who were based in the Netherlands for their study or research programme. Students from other international educational institutions can also apply if they meet the conditions mentioned below.

To make use of the residence permit for orientation year, you must meet the following conditions:

• you have a valid passport or another travel document;
• you are not a risk to public order or national security;
• you are willing to undergo a tuberculosis test upon arrival in the Netherlands. Certain nationalities are exempt from this obligation ;
• you have not previously had a residence permit to look for work after study, doctoral programme, or scientific research on the basis of completing the same study or doctoral programme or performing the same scientific research.

Study or research conditions

In the past 3 years, you have:

• completed an accredited bachelor's or master's programme in the Netherlands; or
• completed a postgraduate study of at least 12 months in the Netherlands; or
• completed a study in the Netherlands in the context of the Cultural Policy Act; or
• completed a study in the Netherlands that is provided in relation to the development cooperation policy of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs; or
• obtained a master's degree in the context of an Erasmus Mundus Masters Course ; or
• completed a higher education programme designated by Ministerial Decree; or
• completed scientific research at any time. For this, you have had a residence permit in the Netherlands for the purpose of scientific research within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/801, or as a highly skilled migrant to undertake scientific research; or
• achieved a minimum score of 6.0 for the International English Language Testing System; or
• achieved a comparable minimum score in an English language test in accordance with the Code of Conduct for international students in Dutch higher education; or
• acquired a diploma, certificate, or another document as mentioned in Article 2.3, (1) of the Civic Integration Decree (only in Dutch); or
• completed a Master’s degree programme, a doctoral programme, or a post-Master’s programme in the English language or in Dutch.

What is a designated international educational institution?

A designated international educational institution is one listed in the top 200 of at least 2 of the main general rankings, or available rankings per faculty, or academic subject. The educational institution must have been in the top 200 of these rankings on the date that you completed the study programme or doctoral programme. The rankings that include your educational institution must come from at least 2 different publishers. Rankings published by the same publisher count as one.

You apply for the residence permit for orientation year at the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). If you have completed your education abroad, are still living there, and want to apply for the ‘orientation year’, you may require a provisional residence permit ( machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf , mvv). Use the interactive Coming to the Netherlands tool to find out if you need a provisional residence permit.

If you do need a provisional residence permit, you need to start the procedure with the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence. In this procedure, you apply for a provisional residence permit and a residence permit simultaneously.

If you are already living legally in the Netherlands, you can apply for the residence permit for orientation year on the IND website .

For more information on how to enter the Netherlands, please check the procedure .

The application fee must be paid when you submit your application. Please note that you pay for processing the application, not for the residence permit. The fee will therefore not be refunded if your application is refused.

The next steps

Are you already legally resident in the Netherlands? And have you enclosed a certified copy of a (foreign) diploma, certificate, a ‘statement on completion of study’, or proof of scientific research conducted? Then you are free to work in the Netherlands while awaiting the decision on your application.

You can collect a residence endorsement sticker at an IND office. This sticker states ' arbeid vrij toegestaan, tewerkstellingsvergunning (TWV) niet vereis t' (work freely permitted, no work permit required). You have to make an appointment online to collect the sticker.

If you had another Dutch residence permit prior to this application, you will retain that employment status until you have received the residence permit for orientation year.

IND will send a letter to successful applicants indicating when you can collect your residence permit. For this, you have to make an appointment at the IND desk named in the letter.

The residence document shows the employment status ( arbeidsmarktaantekening ). A holder of a residence permit for orientation year’ is allowed to work in the Netherlands without any restrictions. An employer does not need to apply for a work permit.

The ‘orientation year’ residence permit is issued for a maximum period of 1 year. It is not possible to extend the validity. If you want to extend your stay in the Netherlands after the ‘orientation year’ has ended, you have to apply for another type of residence permit.

If you find a job as a highly skilled migrant during the ‘orientation year’, the potential employer must apply for a residence permit for you as a highly skilled migrant. Changing from a residence permit for an orientation year to a residence permit as a highly skilled migrant means a lower income requirement applies. This lower amount also applies if you switch to a highly skilled migrant residence permit directly within 3 years after having graduated in the Netherlands.

If you do not find a job as a highly skilled migrant, but a different job, then the new employer must apply for a single permit for residence and employment.

If you start your own business, you must apply to change your residence permit to employment as a self-employed person or startup .

If you stay in the Netherlands illegally after your residence permit expires, you risk being issued an entry ban for the Schengen area.

Take a look at the frequently asked questions on the IND website.

Related articles

• Residence permit for foreign startups
• Regulation: Highly skilled migrants

External links

• Watch the webinar: 'Work in Holland: special permit for alumni of higher education'

Questions relating to this article?

Please contact the Immigration and Naturalisation Service, IND

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Graduate School of Humanities

International PhD candidates

If you wish to come to the Netherlands, there are certain immigration procedures you need to follow. Leiden University can apply for a visa and residence permit on your behalf.

Visa, residence and work permit

Using one of our checklists, you can see what you need to do. The  Immigration Wizard  can help you determine which category applies to you. Make sure you select the appropriate category for your country of origin:

• Checklist 1:   TEV Nationality (visa and permit)
• Checklist 2:  VVR Nationality (permit)
• Checklist 3:  EU/EER countries or Switzerland

After concluding the employment agreement with your respective institute, the HR department of the Faculty of Humanities will request the Service Centre International Staff of Leiden University to start up your immigration procedure in the ISD webportal.

We will apply for:

• the Dutch entry visa (MVV) on your behalf (at least 8 weeks before the start date of your contract) if applicable. Do not apply for the MVV yourself;
• a residence permit for you and any accompanying family members;
• a work permit (at least 6 weeks before the start date of your contract if applicable).

You will receive an e-mail from the SCIS with login details and the documents needed to complete the application procedure.

If you have any questions regarding immigration procedures you can contact the  Service Centre International Staff  at  [email protected] , +31(0)71 527 7300.

Insurance and taxes

When moving to The Netherlands, it is important to know whether you are considered a resident tax payer or non-resident tax payer. Both residents and non-residents are taxed on their taxable income. A number of criteria help determine your status as resident or non-resident.

For more information on insurance and taxes, please consult the   Service Centre International staff  website .

Are you an international researcher working for Leiden University? Please note that you are probably legally obliged to take out health insurance. On  this page  of the Service Centre International Staff website, you find more information on the type of health insurance you need and how to apply for it.

If you have any questions regarding insurance and taxes you can contact the Service Centre International Staff by  email  or by phone  +31(0)71 527 7300 or visit them at Rapenburg 70, Leiden, on weekdays from 08.30-12.30 (no appointment needed).

Visa & residence permit: overview

If you require an entry visa and/or a (new) residence permit, you will be contacted by email to guide you through each step of the process. 

According to Dutch law, students cannot apply for a visa themselves. All applications and extensions for (entry) visas, residence permits and Change of Purpose are coordinated by the University of Twente. The Visa Office coordinates the on-campus bachelor's, master's and exchange students.

• How to obtain a visa? To start the visa application process, you first have to accept your Offer of Admission.
• Deadlines The visa/residence permit procedure will start after you accept the Offer of Admission.
• Details on visa en residence permit Such as visa requirements and instructions on what to do in different situations.

ITC and PhD students

Students from the faculty ITC will be assisted by the ITC faculty , whereas PhD students will be assisted by our Office Foreign Employees . Please refer to their respective websites for more information.

Obligation of Identification

As a resident of the Netherlands, you must be able to identify yourself to authorities at all times. Hence, we strongly encourage you to always carry your passport, ID card and/or residence permit with you.

Everything international students need to know about student visas in the Netherlands

This table explains deadlines, costs, language requirements and post-study work options for a student visa in the netherlands.

Many students choose to study in the Netherlands for the high-quality education, programmes taught in English and the more affordable student lifestyle. 

But finding all the information on student visas can be tricky. To help you through this process, we have put together a handy table that covers all aspects of a Netherlands student visa. 

Dream global, study global: get involved today

Below we cover everything from visa types and costs to deadlines and work options. 

Graduate employability: top universities in the Netherlands ranked by employers Scholarships to study in the Netherlands for international students  

Please note all costs and conversion rates were correct at the time of publication. These might vary over time. 

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Moving to the Netherlands to Research or Study

The Netherlands is one of the happiest and safest countries in the world making it a great place for researchers. Here are some practical things to know before you move to help you settle in quickly.

Visas and Permits

Citizens of the EU/EEA or Switzerland do not need a work or residence permit to study or research in the Netherlands. However, if you plan on staying for more than three months, you should make an appointment to register with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). Once you register, you will receive a registration statement (v erklaring van inschrijving ) which you may have to show when you take out health insurance or if you apply for a mortgage.

If you are coming to the Netherlands from outside the EU/EEA as a PhD student, paid scientific researcher, or unpaid scientific researcher with a grant you will apply for a residence permit for scientific researchers . Citizens of certain countries will also need an entry visa (a Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf or MVV) to enter the Netherlands. Your research institution will apply for your residence permit and MVV (if required). Once your application is approved you will collect your MVV from the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence and provide biometric information. Once you arrive in the Netherlands, make an appointment with Immigration and Naturalisation Services to pick up your residence permit card.

Bringing Your Family

It is easiest to submit your family members’ visa applications with your own. Family members include a spouse/cohabitating partner/civil partner and children under 18. Your partner will have the same rights as you with regards to work. If your residence permit allows you to work without a work permit then theirs will too, whereas if you are only allowed to work with a work permit, they will also need a Dutch work permit. Your spouse’s employer will be responsible for the work permit application.

Registering and Getting a BSN

Students or researchers who are going to be in the Netherlands for more than four months (regardless of their nationality) must make an appointment to register in the Personal Records Database (BPR) with their local municipality. You must register in person along with all family members who have moved with you. You will have to present your passport or ID card, legalized birth certificate and proof of address, in addition to a marriage certificate or children's’ birth certificates. Once you’re registered, you will be assigned a Citizen Registry Number (BSN) which is used by government agencies.

Health Insurance

Residents and employees of the Netherlands are obligated to take out Dutch public health insurance ( zorgverzekering or basisverzekering ) within four months of their arrival in the Netherlands, even if they already have coverage in their home country. Dutch public health insurance covers basic medical care such as a visit to your family doctor and most necessary hospital treatments. Although the Dutch health system is a public one, it is not free. You do get to choose your insurance company and monthly premiums are around €100. Policies are taken out on an individual basis, although you don’t have to pay premiums for public health insurance for children under 18.

If you plan to be in the Netherlands for longer than six months, opening a Dutch bank account is recommended. To open a bank account in the Netherlands, you will need your BSN, passport and a Dutch address. Major banks in the Netherlands include ING , Rabobanks , and ABN AMRO .

It is a good idea to have a few weeks worth of living expenses available in your home bank account as it may take some time to get your Dutch bank account and salary deposit set up. Check with your home bank before you travel to make sure you will be able to use your bank card abroad.

Learning Dutch

While English is the working language of many universities and research institutions, learning Dutch will help you immensely in your daily life. Many universities offer Dutch courses for their international students and staff that are either fully or partially subsidized. There are also Dutch courses offered at a variety of price points at language centres across the country. Here is some more information about Dutch courses available in Amsterdam .

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Residence permit for the orientation year as a highly educated migrant seeking employment

The government feels it is important to give highly educated migrants enough time to find a job or set up their own company in the Netherlands after they have graduated. To this end, they can apply for a residence permit for the orientation year as a highly educated migrant seeking employment or as a start-up.

Applying for a residence permit for the orientation year as a highly educated migrant seeking employment

The residence permit for the orientation year as a highly educated migrant seeking employment came into effect on 1 March 2016. This residence permit is intended for:

• foreign students studying in the Netherlands;
• foreign students who graduated from a top university outside the Netherlands;
• foreign scientific researchers who have carried out research in the Netherlands.

These highly educated migrants will be given the chance to apply for a residence permit for an orientation year within three years of graduating. This allows graduates to return home after graduating and then come back to the Netherlands. But they can also apply for an orientation year straight away. They can then use their residence permit for the orientation year to find a job as a highly skilled migrant. Foreign nationals are only allowed to work in the Netherlands if they have a residence permit. With the orientation year residence permit, graduates and researchers are free to work in the Netherlands during the orientation year. For an overview of the terms and conditions and the application procedure for the orientation year residence permit , please consult the IND website.

PhD in Netherlands – Your Complete Guide

The Netherlands is one of the prestigious destinations for all international students for higher education. It has some of the well-known and top-ranked universities in Europe. It is a country that has developed rich traditions of artistic, cultural, and scientific achievement. The country’s multicultural and multilingual population also means that most of its doctoral programmes are taught in English.Like in the UK, PhD in Netherlands is carried out on a specific topic and documented in a thesis that presents the student’s results and conclusions. In most countries, a doctoral candidate is considered a student who studies and does research. But in the Netherlands, PhD candidates are traditionally researchers employed by a university to complete a dissertation or thesis. Since these jobs allow you to complete your PhD degree while earning a salary and without paying tuition fees, they are highly competitive. Once you are hired, your research will be conducted on the topic specified in the vacancy and in conjunction with a faculty, research institute or research school. Most candidates complete their PhD within four years. So, this means you have social security, build up retirement funds, pay taxes, and are expected to perform like an employee, fulfilling certain functioning criteria.

All PhD candidates are part of a graduate school or research school. Research schools are partnerships between multiple research universities and research institutes, while graduate schools are organised within universities. Both provide an inspiring research environment, offering tailor-made study programmes, master classes, seminars and conferences.

PhD Supervision in Netherlands

PhD students have a supervisor, who is an expert academic university professor, responsible for overseeing your research and thesis writing. They will also need to approve your final thesis for submission.

Depending on the specific structure and requirements of your doctoral programme, this supervision may involve regular progress checks and formal review points. You may also have a co-supervisor.

Length of PhD in Netherlands

PhD in Netherlands generally lasts for a minimum of four years. This is partly due to the employment status as a doctoral researcher and the additional teaching and administrative responsibilities that this entails.

Doctoral researchers that are not formally associated with a university (i.e., external doctoral candidates) may take longer to complete their studies.

Cost of PhD in Netherlands

Most PhD students in the Netherlands are considered  university employees  and therefore receive a salary to fund their research. Therefore, there are  no traditional tuition fees  for doctoral candidates or doctoral fellows.  However, there are other types of doctoral candidates that may not be considered university employees. These are:

• contract doctoral research associates  have their research sponsored by an external source such as a scholarship or external employer
• external doctoral candidates  are self-funded and work on their PhD research in their free time

Scholarships/ Funding for PhD in Netherlands

In Netherlands, there are generally 3 ways to fund PhD studies:

• employed by the PhD-awarding institution;
• with a fellowship or grant awarded by a supporting body;
• with sponsorship from the employer.

Employed by an institution The majority of PhD candidates in the Netherlands have an employment contract with the institution where they will be conducting their research.

Fellowship or grant About one-sixth of PhD candidates in the Netherlands find funding in the form of a fellowship or grant, and many of these come from abroad. Once you have found a fellowship or grant, you will need to find a supervisor at a research institution willing to support you. Organisations offering fellowships and grants can be found on the EURAXESS website and at our Finances overview.

Sponsored by your employer It is sometimes possible to study for a PhD part-time while working. If you and your employer are interested in this option, you should contact the institution of your choice for more information.

Application Process for PhD in Netherlands

Admission for a Ph.D. programme in Netherlands involves various steps which are discussed below:

• Finding a supervisor: the PhD programme involves one-on-one interaction with the supervisor and the college or university may not assign a faculty for your guidance. You should make sure that you find a guide in your area of study from the college/ university that you want to apply for.
• Once the supervisor agrees to act as your guide and to support your application for the School’s Ph.D. programme, you will be required to submit an official application to the university.
• You will be asked to provide your contact details, curriculum vitae and supporting documents including the research proposal, personal statement, transcript and references.
• Prepare a Research Proposal : This holds the key in the application process for the Ph.D. programme. Normally a proposal should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words. The proposal should explain your area of study, the aim of your research and your hypothesis.
• Personal statement:  The most important challenge is to put down in words the reason for pursuing the particular programme, what attracts you to the subject area and how your studies or work experience has influenced you to take up PhD studies. It is a very important document and holds a lot of value in eyes of the admission committee.
• References : All programmes will ask for referees who can provide details about your academic abilities and motivation. In some cases, there will be specific referee forms available on the school site. And in other cases, a referee may be asked to provide a letter of reference in his/her own words.

Post-Study Work Visa in Netherlands

Graduates of higher education or university studies (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees) can apply for a  Dutch orientation year visa  within three years of graduating. This gives you one year to look for employment, during which time you can work without any restrictions or the need for an employer to hold a work permit for you.

Family visa norms in Netherlands

This depends on the conditions of the residence permit held by your partner in the Netherlands. The back of your own residence permit will tell you if you are allowed to work in the Netherlands, and if so, under what conditions.

Broadly speaking (but not always – see below), as a non-EEA spouse/partner of a person based in the Netherlands, you will be given the same rights to work as your partner.

If your partner is a Dutch citizen, whether, by birth or acquisition, the back of your residence permit should state the words ‘ arbeid vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist ’, which means “work freely allowed. TWV not required”. TWV stands for ‘ tewerkstellingsvergunning’,   which means work permit.

If your partner in the Netherlands is not a Dutch citizen, but they have a residence permit, the Dutch immigration service will give you the same work rights as your partner.

If your partner in the Netherlands requires a TWV to work, then you will also need a TWV to seek employment.

If your partner in the Netherlands is not permitted to work, then you will also not be able to work.

Can I work in Netherlands part-time during my studies?

Most PhD students in the Netherlands are employed by their universities, and therefore there may not be much scope for additional work. Nonetheless, in some cases, you may wish to undertake additional employment.

EU / EEA / Swiss students are free to work alongside PhD studies without restrictions. Other international students will require a work permit from the UWV (which is generally applied by the employer and not the student) and are permitted to work a maximum of 16 hours per week and full-time during the summer.

How can “Road to Abroad” help you?

We provide the best PhD Assistance across the globe. We provide the right guidance and support needed to complete the tedious and time-consuming PhD admission process. Our flawless track record and very high success rate have fulfilled the dreams of many students who aspire to gain a doctoral degree. We will help you secure a fully-funded PhD position and help you in all the steps from application to immigration. For more information, visit our PhD Consultation Page .

Searching for Open PhD Positions Abroad? Click here

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Aljawaz Your guide to study abroad

How to get a student visa in the netherlands.

Herilalao Study in Netherlands Leave a comment

The Netherlands is a destination that grows in popularity among international students. With several reputable universities providing a world-class education, the Netherlands also has a relatively clear and simple student visa process. Once you get your letter of acceptation from a Dutch university, this is the next step. 

And as it is the case in most EU countries, the Netherlands have a student visa process that takes into account your country of origin. Carry on reading to learn how to get a student visa in the Netherlands: process, requirements, cost, processing time and more. 

Read also our guide on how to apply to universities in Holland .

Study visa process in the Netherlands

Non-EU and non-EEA international students go different steps from EU/EEA ones to get their study visa to Holland. A particularity of the student visa in the Netherlands is that it’s the university who has accepted you who takes care of the visa application for you. And the process starts once you confirm your admission at the Holland International Study Centre . 

They then will let you know the documents you need to gather and send to your university as part of your visa application. When the university receives all the necessary documents and processed your application, they will send your application to the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).  

Once your university’s request is approved, the next step is to apply for an entry permit at a Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country. This visa, officially known as MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf), allows you to enter the Netherlands for a period of six months. You, then, need to apply for a residence permit or VVR at your arrival in the country. 

Student visa vs Residence permit in the Netherlands 

Like for the MVV, it’s also your university that initiates the VVR application. It’s only logical, since it’s your permit to stay in the Netherlands for study purposes. In this case, the VVR remains valid for the duration of the study program you enrolled in. The other condition is for the student to score 50% of credit throughout the duration of the program.

In case you decide to change your major during your studies, the validity period of your VVR will be reduced of the time you’ve already spent in the previous program. However, you can apply for an extension of your stay duration for the rest of your new course’s duration. 

If you discontinue your studies, your host university must inform the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). It’s also the case if you stop your registration as a student or have no longer sufficient funds to cover your costs of subsistence. The IND might then cancel your visa/residence permit. 

Lastly, non-EU and non-EEA students need to go through this process of MVV followed by a VVR application. There is however an exception for students from Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, South Korea, Vatican City State and USA, who only need a VVR. 

Student visa requirements in the Netherlands

Here are the main requirements to comply with to get a study visa in Holland: 

Netherlands student visa document checklist 

To obtain a student visa in the Netherlands, you must submit the following documents: 

• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport
• 2 photographs
• Birth certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Official letter from the university stating that you confirm your admission 
• Proof of payment of the student visa application fee
• Health insurance
• Proof of financial means for the entire period of study

IELTS requirements for the Netherlands student visa 

To be able to study in the Netherlands, you need to have a minimum level of proficiency in the English language. And this is a requirement not only for programs which language of instruction is English, but for some programs in Dutch also. 

If your native language is not English and you have never studied at a university in an English-majority country, you’ll need to provide a proof of language proficiency. For that, you need to provide your score at tests such as: 

• IELTS Academic
• PTE Academic

The minimum IELTS band requirement to study in the Netherlands is 6. However, some institutions might accept lower scores. Make sure to check your university’s website to find out. 

To help you out, check here our list of the 10 best universities in the Netherlands with their official websites.

How much money is required for a student visa in the Netherlands? 

The Dutch government has set the minimum financial means to support yourself during your studies to at least €850 per month. In order to prove you have the necessary fund, you need to provide either a bank statement or a scholarship offer. 

The bank statement must be less than 3 months old and certified by the bank. Moreover, if you are unable to provide a bank statement, you can opt for depositing funds with your university. They then will keep your money until your arrival in the Netherlands to set up a Dutch bank account. 

Learn here about the best scholarships in the Netherlands and how to apply and get one.

Application fee 

International students who apply for a visa in Netherlands will have to pay a fee of around €171. There might be however some slightly changes from a university to another, since they are the ones who handle the application. The difference in the costs might be service fees, handling charges, etc. Again, make sure to check with your university to find out. 

Netherlands student visa processing time

Once you’ve secured your enrollment in a Dutch university at Holland International Study Centre, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks to get your MVV (entry visa). It’s then advised to start the application process as soon as possible. This also depends on the student’s nationality. But to avoid any delay, start the procedure up to 3 months before the beginning of your program. 

Can I work in the Netherlands with a student visa? 

Non-EU and non-EEA international students need to apply for a permit to be able to work in the Netherlands. The legal limit is 16 hours a week during study periods and full-time during vacation months. Moreover, it’s the prospective employer who applies for a work permit on your behalf. 

Furthermore, in order to be paid, you must have a Burger Service Number or a citizen service number. You’ll receive this number once you register with your local municipality in Holland. 

Lastly, students who work and study at the same time in the Netherlands must file and pay income tax. Even those who have a scholarship need to do so in some cases, since scholarships can be counted as an income, therefore taxable. 

Read also our overview of the study and living cost in the Netherlands .

Student visa acceptance rate in Netherlands

As long as you meet all the requirements, have all your documents in order, the Dutch immigration department won’t deny you a visa. The other main condition is also for the student to provide only correct information, as a proof of their good faith. That’s why the acceptance rate for student visas in the Netherlands is nearly 99%. 

The major reasons for visa rejection in the Netherlands would be the usual insufficient financial means, inappropriate or missing documents, poor education performance, or any wrong information.

Lastly, once you get your residence permit in Netherlands, it will be valid for the duration of your course to a maximum of 5 years. To this period, you get an additional 3 months and a preparatory year before the beginning of your courses.

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A millennial who moved to Canada for the quality of life shares why he wants to go back to Texas — and why he regrets not waiting to relocate until later in life

• A millennial moved from the South to Montreal in 2015 to "get cultured" and attend graduate school. 
• He said food, safety, healthcare, and quality of life are the biggest perks of living in Montreal. 
• But he said he wants to move back to Texas for the weather, lower cost of living, and his family. 

If you ask Dexter Linton, there aren't many downsides to living in Montreal . But it might not be enough to keep him there.

The 33-year-old sales professional grew up in Arlington, Texas, attended college in Kansas, and then landed a post-graduate internship in Georgia, he told Business Insider via email. In 2015, he decided to move to Montreal on a student visa to pursue a Master's degree in sports business management.

In addition to attending graduate school, Linton said one of the main reasons he moved to Montreal was to "get cultured" and experience something different. The city didn't disappoint him in this regard.

"It's extremely cultural, great food scene, safe, bilingualism is an asset," he said.

But Linton always planned to move back to Texas someday, and he said his feelings haven't changed.

In recent years, millions of Americans have moved south. Between July 2022 and 2023, South Carolina, Florida, and Texas were the three fastest-growing states by population in the nation. Business Insider has spoken with several people who've relocated to the South in recent years, both from other regions of the US and Canada . Weather, lower cost of living, and job opportunities were among the reasons they made their moves.

However, there are some Americans who — rather than heading south — have moved north to Canada . US-to-Canada movers told Business Insider they did it for more affordable healthcare , a different political culture , and a fresh start .

To Linton, both Montreal and Texas have their pros and cons.

Montreal has better healthcare and quality of life, but Texas has nicer weather and a lower cost of living

While Montreal's culture initially drew him to the city, Linton said there are several more reasons he and his wife might want to raise their family there rather than in Texas.

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"My wife often brings up the comparatives: healthcare system , education quality, and overall quality of life ," he said.

He said he also feels safer sending his children to school in Canada, given the gun violence that has occurred in the US in recent years.

However, Linton said he thinks Texas edges out Montreal in three areas.

"Down South the weather is better, there are more career opportunities , and the cost of living is lower — for now."

While lower housing costs , for example, have drawn some people to the Lone Star State, the demand uptick associated with a booming population has caused home prices to spike in recent years. Texas still has the perk of no state income tax .

Ultimately, Linton said being closer to his family — many of them still live in Texas — is a big reason he wants to move back someday. However, some of his wife's family lives in Montreal.

"You make your money in the US, and you get out before it's too late"

The timing of Linton's move back to the US is very uncertain. He said it would be difficult to relocate his family given his children are young, but that he hopes to move back sometime over the next decade.

In hindsight, Linton said he regrets moving to Montreal as early in his life as he did.

"If I knew what I knew today, I would have established myself in Texas, while making frequent trips to Montreal to visit my wife's family instead of vice versa," he said.

Linton recalled the advice of a friend, who told him, "You make your money in the US, and you get out before it's too late." Linton said the friend was alluding to strong economic opportunities in the US but insufficient support for older Americans — compared to some other countries — to help pay for healthcare costs in retirement.

"I wish we lived in Texas now and moved to Canada later in life," Linton said.

Have you recently moved to a new state or country and are willing to share your story? If so, reach out to this reporter at [email protected] .

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