Netherlands Student Visa (MVV) Guide for Nepali Students 2026

The Netherlands student visa process is university-sponsored — your Dutch institution handles the IND application on your behalf. But there are critical steps, documents, and deadlines that Nepali students must prepare for. This guide walks you through the entire MVV process.

The Netherlands student visa process is university-sponsored — your Dutch institution handles the IND application on your behalf. But there are critical steps, documents, and deadlines that Nepali students must prepare for. This guide walks you through the entire MVV process.

Understanding the Netherlands Student Visa System

Unlike many other countries where students apply for a visa themselves, the Netherlands operates a university-sponsored system. Your Dutch higher education institution is a recognised sponsor with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), and it applies for your residence permit on your behalf. This means the process only begins after you have formally accepted your offer of admission and paid any required deposit.

The MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) is the entry visa you collect from the Dutch embassy before travelling. Once you arrive in the Netherlands, you collect your residence permit sticker (or card, depending on the process) from your university or the IND.

The MVV Application Process: Step by Step

The Netherlands student visa process follows a clear sequence:

• Step 1 — Receive and formally accept your offer of admission from a Dutch university
• Step 2 — Your university submits an IND application for your residence permit on your behalf
• Step 3 — IND processes the application (typically 8–12 weeks)
• Step 4 — Once approved, you are invited to collect your MVV from the Dutch Embassy in Kathmandu or New Delhi
• Step 5 — Travel to the Netherlands with your MVV
• Step 6 — Collect your residence permit from your university or IND desk
• Step 7 — Register at your local municipality (Gemeente) to receive your BSN (Burgerservicenummer — citizen service number)

Key Documents Required

While your university manages the IND application, you must provide the following documents:

• Formal admission letter from your Dutch university
• Proof of financial means — the Dutch standard requires approximately €900 per month (€10,800 per year) in living expenses, plus tuition fees
• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned stay
• Health insurance valid in the Netherlands (your university will advise on suitable providers)
• TB test results — critically important for Nepali nationals (see below)
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or as specified by your university)

TB Test: Critical Requirement for Nepali Students

Nepal is on the Netherlands’ list of countries with elevated tuberculosis risk. All Nepali nationals applying for a Dutch residence permit of 3 months or longer must undergo a TB test. This test must be conducted by a designated doctor — your university or the IND will provide a list of approved clinics. The test must typically be completed before or shortly after arrival. Failure to complete this requirement can result in permit refusal or revocation.

BSN Registration and Part-Time Work

Within 5 days of arrival in the Netherlands, you must register at your local Gemeente (municipality) to receive your BSN (Burgerservicenummer). The BSN is your Dutch identification number and is required to open a bank account, access healthcare, pay taxes, and work legally.

Students on a Dutch residence permit are permitted to work 16 hours per week during term time and full-time during June, July, and August. Your employer must hold an IND work permit on your behalf (TWV — Tewerkstellingsvergunning), which your university’s international office can advise on.

MVV Process Timeline

Frequently Asked Questions