Avans University of Applied Sciences

If you're planning to pursue a full-time study program at Avans University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, understanding the visa and residence permit process is essential. For non-EU students, obtaining a valid visa and residence permit is crucial for your studies and stay in the Netherlands. In this guide, we will walk you through the process, eligibility requirements, necessary documents, and how to ensure compliance with Dutch regulations to make your application smooth and stress-free.

Visa and Residence Permit for Non-EU Students
As a non-EU student planning to study at Avans University of Applied Sciences, it’s mandatory to apply for a visa and residence permit if you intend to stay for more than 3 months. The visa allows you to enter the Netherlands, while the residence permit confirms your legal status as a student in the country.

Key Terms:

• Visa: An authorization for entry into the Netherlands, provided by the Dutch Embassy or Consulate.

• Residence Permit: Proof of your legal resident status in the Netherlands, which you’ll collect shortly after arrival.

• Intra-EU Mobility: If you hold a residence permit from another EU country for study purposes, you may not need a Dutch visa but should apply for an appropriate authorization.

Application Process
The Avans International Office manages the visa and residence permit application on your behalf. Once you receive an official admission offer from the university, you can initiate your application.

Eligibility Criteria:
To start the application process, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Exchange Students:

   • Official admission to a full-time study program at Avans.

2. Degree-Seeking Students:

   • Official admission to a full-time study program.

   • Positive advice following your intake interview and study check.

   • Payment of the first-year tuition fee before June 15.

Required Documents
To proceed with the application, you need to provide various documents:

• Proof of sufficient financial funds for your stay.

• Completed and signed Antecedents Certificate form.

• If applicable, a signed Declaration of Intent to Undergo a TB Test form (only if your country is not exempt from this requirement).

• Your EU residence permit if you're applying under Intra-EU Mobility.

Application Fee
The application fee is €243 and must be paid via iDEAL or credit card. Ensure you upload the invoice of the payment during your application process. However, if Intra-EU Mobility applies to you or you already have a valid Dutch residence permit, no application fee will be required.

Submission & Decision
Once your application is complete and all documents are submitted, the Avans International Office will forward your application to the IND (Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service). The IND review process may take 2-6 weeks, after which you will be informed about the decision.

If your visa application is approved, you will need to visit a Dutch embassy or consulate to collect your visa. The process may take several days to weeks depending on your nationality.

Residence Permit Collection
Upon arrival in the Netherlands, you will need to schedule an appointment with the IND to collect your residence permit card. It’s important to complete this step promptly to ensure your legal stay in the Netherlands.

Maintaining Your Residence Permit
Your residence permit is valid for the duration of your study program plus an additional three months. To maintain your status, you must:

• Provide proof of sufficient financial funds for the next academic year at the end of each year.

• Pay your annual tuition fees.

• Actively participate in your study program.

• Achieve a minimum of 50% of the required study credits (30 ECTS) per academic year.

How to Provide Proof of Sufficient Funds
As a non-EU student studying in the Netherlands, you must demonstrate sufficient financial funds to cover your living and study costs. This proof is necessary to apply for a study visa and/or residence permit with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Here’s how to provide proof of sufficient funds:

Step 1: Paying Your Tuition Fees
Before beginning the visa and residence permit application, you must pay your tuition fees to Avans University. Bachelor’s, master’s, and individual exchange students pay tuition fees directly to Avans, while contract exchange students continue to pay through their home institutions. Payment instructions are provided on the university website.

Step 2: Providing Proof of Sufficient Funds for Living Costs
In addition to tuition fees, you must have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses. The required amount depends on your study program and the duration of your studies. The following are the required financial amounts:

• Bachelor’s / Master’s degree student: €15,000 per year

• Contract exchange / Individual exchange student: €15,000 per year or €7,500 for one semester

Options for Providing Proof of Funds:
You can prove your financial capability through one of the following options:

• Option 1: Proof of Own Funds
  Provide a copy of a signed and stamped bank statement from an internationally recognized bank that meets the following criteria:

  • Written in English or Dutch (if in another language, include a sworn translation).

  • Must state the account type (current or savings).

  • Account holder must have unrestricted access to the funds.

  • The statement must be no older than 3 months.

  • Include the bank’s contact details.

• Option 2: Proof of Funds from a Financier Abroad (Non-Netherlands)
  If a sponsor is funding your studies, provide:

  • A signed and stamped bank statement from an internationally recognized bank.

  • A copy of the sponsor’s passport.

  • A signed statement of financial support (minimum €1,250 per month for the student).

• Option 3: Proof of Scholarship
  If you are receiving a scholarship, provide:

  • A scholarship declaration in English or Dutch, stating the amount, start and end dates, and the institution granting the scholarship.

  • The declaration must be signed and stamped by the institution.

Understanding the visa and residence permit application process at Avans University of Applied Sciences is vital for non-EU students planning to study in the Netherlands. By following the eligibility criteria, providing the necessary documents, and adhering to Dutch regulations, you can ensure a smooth transition to studying in the Netherlands.

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