Residence permit for study purposes
This route is for individuals admitted to a Dutch higher education institution to follow a full-time study programme. The institution must be a recognised sponsor.
Specification reviewed on
Required documents
The list below is exhaustive. Each document is described as it must be submitted, including the most common errors that lead to rejection.
Identity
Copy of the student's passport
You must provide a copy of the pages of your valid passport that contain identity details, as well as of all stamped pages. The copies must be clear and legible.
Common errors
- The copies are illegible, required pages are missing (especially pages with stamps), or the passport is no longer valid.
Antecedents Certificate
This form must be completed by any applicant aged 12 or over. You declare in it that you have no criminal record. The sponsor declares that you have signed it, but the form must be attached if you declare any antecedents.
Common errors
- The form is not completed truthfully, is not signed, or is not attached to the application when it is required.
Copy of a valid residence permit from another Schengen Area member state
This document is only required if you already reside in the Netherlands, your nationality requires a provisional residence permit (MVV), and you hold a residence permit from another Schengen country. The permit must be valid.
Common errors
- Providing an expired residence permit or one that is not relevant to the application's situation.
Biometric data enrolment
You must have your fingerprints, passport photograph and signature enrolled. This procedure takes place either at the Dutch embassy or consulate, or at an IND desk after your arrival in the Netherlands. An appointment is required.
Common errors
- Not making an appointment or not attending the appointment, which prevents the creation of the verblijfsdocument.
Identity photograph
An identity photograph is required at your appointment for the collection of biometric data. It must comply with the requirements for Dutch passports. A non-compliant photograph may cause delays.
Common errors
- The photograph does not meet the required standards in terms of size, background, framing, or facial expression.
Resources
Direct debit collection appendix
This form authorises the IND to collect the application fees directly from the bank account of the sponsor (the educational institution). It must be completed and signed by an authorised person from the institution for each applicant.
Common errors
- The form is incomplete, the bank details are incorrect, or the signature of an authorised person is missing.
Other documents
Application for the purpose of residence of ‘study’ (recognised sponsor)
This form (model 7504) is completed and submitted by the Dutch educational institution acting as your recognised sponsor. It contains your personal information, the details of the study programme, and the institution's declarations on compliance with the required conditions.
Common errors
- The form is incomplete, contains incorrect information, or is submitted by an entity that is not a recognised sponsor by the IND.
Have your situation reviewed
Having the list does not indicate whether your situation will lead to a successful outcome. The questionnaire takes a few minutes and an adviser will send you a written opinion within one working day, whether your application is admissible or not.