Pakistani students admitted to a Dutch university do not apply for their visa themselves — the university handles the immigration process as a recognised sponsor. This guide explains the official requirements published by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) so you know exactly what to prepare and what to expect.

Visa Requirements

  • Students from Pakistan need both an MVV (entry visa) and a VVR (study residence permit) for stays over 90 days.
  • Per the IND, you must: be registered with an educational institution recognised as a sponsor; be enrolled in a full-time daytime course; have sufficient money to support yourself for at least one year (the standard monthly amount is set by the IND and revised periodically — confirm the current figure with your university); hold a valid passport; have no relevant criminal record; be insured for healthcare costs in the Netherlands; and undergo a TB examination by the Municipal Health Service within 3 months of the permit being issued.
  • To keep the residence permit, you must obtain at least half of the required study credits in each academic year.

Application Process

  • Your university applies for the MVV and residence permit on your behalf through the IND’s combined TEV (entry and residence) procedure.
  • Once approved, you collect the MVV sticker at the Dutch embassy in Pakistan (the MVV is valid for three months).
  • After arrival in the Netherlands, you provide biometric data at the IND desk and receive your VVR residence permit card.
  • Apply as early as your admission allows — the process can take several weeks to a few months, with the May–August peak season the slowest.

Fees & Processing Time

  • The IND charges an application fee for the MVV/residence permit procedure, collected through your university; the amount is set by the IND and revised periodically, so always confirm the current figure with your university before budgeting.
  • Processing takes several weeks to a few months; start the process the moment your admission is confirmed.

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