1. Apply for visa/residence permit
To study in the Netherlands as an international student, your educational institution will apply to the IND for a residence permit. The institution must be recognized as a sponsor and takes care of the application. You only need to provide a valid passport, sufficient financial resources and health insurance.
During your studies, there are important rules: you must obtain at least half of your credits per year and report any changes, such as a transfer to another course, to the IND. You are also allowed to work a maximum of 16 hours per week, with the exception of the summer months, when full-time work is allowed.
You can find more information in this document: Studying in the Netherlands – IND *
2. Registering with the municipality
If you move to the Netherlands and stay longer than 4 months, you have to register with the municipality where you will live within 5 days. Make an appointment for this and bring a valid proof of identity and proof of residence. The municipality will register you in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP) and give you a Burgerservicenummer (BSN), necessary for banking, work and healthcare.
Report your move on time, otherwise you risk a fine of up to €325. Are you staying for less than 4 months? Then you can register as a non-resident.
More information can be found here: Moving to the Netherlands – Government.nl. And to make an appointment at Gemeente Amsterdam: Amsterdam Registration.
3. Bank account
To easily pay and receive money in the Netherlands, it is convenient to open a Dutch bank account with, for example, ING, Rabobank, ABN AMRO or Bunq. Some banks offer a special student bank account, which can offer additional benefits, such as lower fees. You will need valid proof of identity (passport, European ID card or residence permit) and your Citizen Service Number (BSN). Also bring your proof of registration with you. When opening online, make sure these documents are available.
4. Health insurance
If you want to work in the Netherlands, you will need Dutch health insurance, even if you have a part-time job alongside your studies or are doing an internship for which you receive the minimum wage. Students who do not work do not need to take out health insurance.
Basic health insurance costs about €1500 a year with a deductible of €385. If you are entitled to care allowance, this can help reduce costs. Basic insurance covers essential care, such as GP visits and hospital admissions, but not dentistry.
For more information on care allowance, see here: Care allowance – Tax Office *
5. Language and translation
Although English is widely used, it is useful to learn the basics of Dutch. This can be done for free through apps such as Duolingo or by taking affordable courses at the university, for example through UvA Talen: UvA Languages – Dutch.
To translate legal documents or contracts, you can use translation websites. One reliable option is DeepL, an excellent translation website: DeepL Translator. In addition, if you want to read a page in English or another language, you can translate the page by clicking on the three dots in Google Chrome and selecting ‘Translate’
