Start Strong in the Netherlands With Full Student Visa Support

For studies lasting longer than 90 days, you will need a Dutch residence permit for study purposes. As a U.S. citizen, you are typically exempt from the initial MVV (Provisional Residence Permit) entry visa requirement. Your educational institution will usually apply for this residence permit on your behalf.

The main requirements are:

• Acceptance Letter: Unconditional acceptance to a full-time study program at a recognized Dutch educational institution.

• Sufficient Financial Means: Proof that you can financially support yourself during your studies. The IND (Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service) sets a minimum monthly amount (approx. €900-€1,100, updated annually) that you must have available for living expenses, in addition to your tuition fees.
  

• Tuition Fee Payment: Proof of payment of your tuition fees, or arrangement for payment (e.g., scholarship).
  

• Health Insurance: Proof of comprehensive health insurance valid for the entire duration of your stay.

• No Criminal Record: You must not pose a threat to public order or national security.

Many Dutch universities offer a wide range of programs taught entirely in English. While knowing some Dutch is always beneficial for daily life, it's generally not a requirement for admission or for your student visa if your program is English-taught. You will likely need to demonstrate English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores).

Once your university submits a complete application to the IND, processing generally takes around 4-6 weeks. However, it can sometimes take up to 3 months, especially during peak application periods. It's vital to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

• Non-EU/EEA students (like Americans) can work a maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year, or full-time during the summer months (June, July, August).
  

• Your employer must apply for a work permit (TWV) for you with the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency). You cannot apply for this yourself.
  

• Internships that are part of your study program generally do not require a separate work permit, but an internship agreement signed by you, your employer, and the university is mandatory.

Yes! The Netherlands offers an excellent "Orientation Year" permit, also known as the zoekjaar visa. This permit allows non-EU/EEA graduates of Dutch universities to stay in the Netherlands for up to one year to look for employment or start their own business. During the "zoekjaar," you have unrestricted access to the labor market. This is a fantastic bridge from academia to a career in the Netherlands.