ACCESS NL > Education in the Netherlands > Dutch higher education > Universities in the Netherlands > Do I need a residence permit to study in the Netherlands? And how long can I stay?

Universities in the Netherlands

I gained my diploma in another country. How can I evaluate and/or have it recognised in the Netherlands?

Do I need a residence permit to study in the Netherlands? And how long can I stay?

If you are not a EU/EEA (European Economic Area) or Swiss citizen, you will need a Provisional Residence Permit (MVV) or/and a residence permit (VVR). Only a recognised educational institution can submit an application on behalf of a student. The educational institution is your recognised sponsor. A residence permit for study purposes is issued for the duration of your study programme plus three months for the administrative completion of the programme, and, if applicable, the preparatory year. The maximum period of the validity of the residence permit is five years. Before the end date of your residence permit, your recognised sponsor may apply for an extension of your stay for the duration of your study programme.

More information about the procedure is available on https://ind.nl/en/study/Pages/study-at-university.aspx.

How does it work once I have a residence permit for studies purpose?