Netherlands Moving to the Netherlands

Student visa

Students from a EU/EEA country or Switzerland do not need a specific permit to study in the Netherlands. A valid passport or identity card is sufficient. If you stay in the Netherlands for more than 4 months, you need to register in the Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen or BPR) at the municipality where you live. You will automatically receive a Citizen Service Number (BSN) which you will need for administrative purposes.

Health insurance

As long as you do not work or take up a paid internship in the Netherlands, you are not obliged to take out any additional insurance in the Netherlands. As a citizen from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will cover your necessary medical costs during your stay.

Accommodation

In the Netherlands, students usually do not live on campus. Only some higher education institutions offer on-campus accommodation options. In most cities finding suitable accommodation can be difficult. Therefore, it is important to start looking for a room or an appartment as early as possible. 

On studyinnl you can find a list of websites to search for accommodation.

Living expenses

Prices can vary considerably depending on how and where you live. International students usually spend between 800 € and 1.100 € per month.

Prices for accommodation are around 300 € to 600 € a month. The costs depend on the city you will be living in and what is included in the rent. Accommodation in Amsterdam, for example, is more expensive than in smaller cities.

Student job & internship

Besides helping to cover your costs, a job can also give you useful work experience and it might help you to learn the language.

Students from the EU/EEA or Switzerland can work freely, without restrictions. However, as soon as you start a job or a paid internship, you are obliged to register with the Dutch basic healthcare insurance. This applies regardless of how many hours you work per week.

How to find a student job?

The easiest way to find a job is through an employment agency, or "uitzendbureau". You can also contact the student affairs office at your university.

Students with special needs

On the Handicap + studie site, you will find the most extensive information on legislation, study adjustments, internships, studying abroad and educational institutions. You will also find a description of Handicap + studie's publications, training courses and other services.