Visa and Entry Requirements

In order to study in the Netherlands as an Australian national without an EU passport you will need a study visa. The visa needs to be issued by the Dutch embassy or a consulate here in Australia. You are advised to apply for the visa well in advance.

Obligations after you arrive

Once you have arrived in Holland you will are required to report to the local immigration authorities (Aliens Police) within three days of your arrival. You also need to register with the local municipality (Gemeentelijke Basisadministratie, GBA) as an inhabitant of the municipality within five days of your arrival. Furthermore you need to apply for a residence permit. Note that for this you may also need health insurance. Your host institution (university or hogeschool) can apply for the permit on your behalf, but until August 1st, 2008, you can also do it yourself. Residence permits are normally only issued for one year but in the case of a longer degree this may be varied. Note that a residence permit cannot be issued for a short stay visa, you need to have a correct study visa.

You also need to register at your host institution (university or hogeschool) when you arrive, not only for getting your class schedules, but also to comply with immigration procedures. The host institution will want to see proof that you have reported to the Aliens Police/the municipality and, if applicable, applied for a residence permit.