|
If you are staying in the Netherlands for over three months, you need to obtain a visa, called a Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf (MVV) in Dutch. Applying for a visa Many Dutch higher education institutes, once you are accepted as a student, will apply for the visa on your behalf by sending the appropriate information to the authorities. You will need to send the school your IELTS or TOEFL scores and show that you have adequate funds for one year of study. The application process usually takes about three weeks, and does not include a personal interview. If your host institution does not apply for the visa for you, you can apply in person at the Dutch embassy or consulate. You will need to fill out an application form, present a valid passport and relevant documents, including an acceptance letter from the institution where you will study, your IELTS or TOEFL scores and proof that you can support yourself financially. Applying for the visa on your own will take at least three to six months, sometimes longer, so it is best to start as soon as possible. Proof that you can support yourself financially. You will need to prove that you will have enough money to support yourself while you are in the Netherlands. The monthly amount considered adequate depends on your status, but is approximately € 7515 to € 9036 (USD 9,870 to USD11,867) a year for an undergraduate student. Acceptable proof of your finances can include a bank statement in your name from a Dutch or international bank showing that there are adequate funds for your costs in the Netherlands. If your studies are funded by a sponsor or relative, then proof of that person’s financial capacity to cover your costs for one year will be required. Residence permit Within three days of arriving in Holland, all foreign nationals must register with the local municipality (town hall). Those intending to stay for longer than three months also need to obtain a residence permit (verblijfsvergunning) at the local municipality. You will have to present a number of documents and pay a fee of approximately €188 (USD 247). Working while studying If you have a residence permit for study purposes you may work to earn money on the side. This work must be either seasonal (in June, July and/or August) or comprise no more than ten hours a week. Your employer must apply for the work permit for you. For additional information about visas for the Netherlands, visit http://www.nuffic.nl/immigration/ .
|
