Checklist: Study in the Netherlands

Disclaimer: This checklist provides general guidance for international students moving to the Netherlands. It does not constitute personal, legal, or financial advice. Rules, fees, and allowances can change annually.

Moving to a foreign country involves a lot of administration. Whether you are coming to the Netherlands for a full degree or a short internship, you need to arrange housing, register with the government, and navigate the healthcare system. This step-by-step checklist will help you organize your move and avoid common administrative fines.

Step 1: Finding a University and Study Program

The Netherlands offers over 2,100 international study programs taught entirely in English. Dutch higher education is generally divided into two main types of institutions:

Applied Sciences vs. Research Universities

• Universities of Applied Sciences (HBO): Focus on the practical implementation of knowledge. These programs often require students to complete one or multiple internships and focus heavily on team projects.
• Research Universities (WO): Focus more on theoretical and academic research. Internships are less common during the bachelor’s phase, and independent study is highly emphasized.

Step 2: Visas, Permits, and Tuition Fees

If you are from outside the EU/EEA, your host university will typically initiate your student visa and residence permit application after you are accepted. Ensure you submit all required financial documents on time.

Tuition fees vary significantly based on your nationality:

• EU/EEA Students: Pay the statutory tuition fee, which is set annually by the government (usually around €2,530 for standard programs in 2026).
• Non-EU/EEA Students: Pay institutional fees, which generally range between €8,000 and €20,000 per year, depending on the degree and university.

Step 3: Housing and Rent Allowance

Finding a room in the Netherlands can be highly competitive. Start your search months before your arrival. If you find an independent apartment or studio, you might be eligible for the Dutch rent allowance (huurtoeslag) to help cover costs. To qualify, you generally must:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Rent an independent living space (with your own private kitchen and bathroom).
• Be registered at that address with the municipality.
• Have a rent price that does not exceed the legal cap (for 2026, check current limits on the Belastingdienst website; there are different limits for those under 23).
• Meet specific income and capital limits.

Step 4: Registering at the Municipality (BSN)

If you plan to stay in the Netherlands for more than four months, you must register at your local town hall (gemeente). Registration generates your Citizen Service Number (BSN). You need a BSN for almost everything: opening a bank account, getting a job, and applying for health insurance.

You usually need to register within five days of arriving, provided you have a valid rental contract. To make an appointment, check your municipality’s website or call them directly. Here are the general contact numbers for major student cities:

• Amsterdam: +31 20 624 11 11
• Rotterdam: +31 10 267 16 25
• Utrecht: +31 30 286 00 00
• The Hague: +31 70 353 30 00
• Groningen: +31 50 367 70 00

Step 5: Getting a Dutch Bank Account

While international cards are becoming more widely accepted, the Netherlands heavily relies on standard debit cards (historically Maestro/V-Pay, now transitioning to Debit Mastercard/Visa Debit). Having a Dutch bank account saves you money on conversion fees and makes it easier to pay rent, tuition, and groceries. Most traditional banks require a BSN to open an account, though some modern online banks allow you to open one upon arrival while waiting for your registration.

Step 6: Health Insurance Rules for Students

Healthcare in the Netherlands is not free, and the rules depend strictly on your employment status.

When Do You Need Dutch Basic Insurance?

You cannot simply choose which system to join. The law dictates your obligation:

• Study-Only (No Job): If you are only studying and do not work, you are not allowed to take out Dutch basic insurance. EU students can use their EHIC; non-EU students must rely on private international student insurance.

• Working Students: The moment you take on a part-time job, you usually fall under the health insurance rules for working students and must take out Dutch basic insurance. Paid internships require a separate SVB/Wlz check: since 1 September 2025, payment, country group and employee-insurance status matter.

Warning: If you work without having Dutch basic insurance, the CAK (the regulatory authority) can issue severe fines. You will be forced to pay back missed premiums retroactively, plus an additional penalty, which can easily total hundreds of euros.

Costs: Premiums and the Eigen Risico

If required to take out Dutch insurance, expect to pay a monthly premium (typically between €140 and €155 in 2026). In addition to the premium, you are subject to the mandatory annual deductible (eigen risico), legally set at €385 for 2026. This means you pay the first €385 of most specialized medical care yourself before the insurer covers the rest (GP visits are exempt).

Applying for Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)

If you have a Dutch basic policy and a low student income, you can apply for the healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag). For single individuals in 2026, this subsidy from the Dutch Tax Administration (Belastingdienst) can be up to approximately €129 per month, significantly reducing your insurance costs.

Step 7: Working Alongside Your Studies

Many students take part-time jobs to help cover living expenses. If you have an EU/EEA or Swiss nationality, you can work without restrictions. If you are from outside the EU/EEA, your employer must apply for a work permit (TWV) on your behalf, and you are restricted to working either a maximum of 16 hours per week year-round OR full-time during the summer months (June to August).

If you are setting up your life in the Netherlands and know you will be taking a part-time job, take a moment to compare basic health insurance options so you are ready to comply with the law from your first working day.