Quick Answer: Netherlands students need a Student visa (Tier 4) to study in the UK, costing £490 with additional healthcare surcharge of £776 per year. The process takes 3-8 weeks with a 98% approval rate for complete applications. You'll need a CAS from your UK university, proof of funds (£1,334 per month for living costs), and English proficiency evidence.

Introduction

As a Netherlands student planning to study in the UK, navigating the student visa application process can seem complex, especially with post-Brexit changes. The good news is that Dutch students continue to have relatively straightforward access to UK education, though the process now requires careful preparation and documentation.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a UK student visa from the Netherlands in 2026, including updated requirements, costs, and insider tips to ensure your application succeeds.

Understanding UK Student Visa Requirements for Netherlands Students

Visa Type: Student Visa (Previously Tier 4)

Netherlands students must apply for a Student visa to study in the UK for courses longer than six months. This visa replaced the Tier 4 General Student visa and maintains similar requirements with some streamlined processes.

Key Eligibility Criteria

Academic Requirements:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK institution
• Meeting English language requirements (IELTS 6.0+ typically required)
• Academic qualifications equivalent to UK entry standards

Financial Requirements:

• Tuition fees for first year (as stated on CAS)
• Living costs: £1,334 per month for areas outside London, £1,483 for London
• Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days before application

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Dutch passport
• Tuberculosis test certificate (if applicable)
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Personal statement or study plan

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Secure Your University Place

Before applying for your UK student visa from Netherlands, you must first receive an offer from a UK university and obtain your CAS number. When you find UK courses that match your interests, ensure the institution is on the UK government's list of approved sponsors.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Essential Documents:

1. Passport - Valid for entire study period
2. CAS Statement - Issued by your UK university
3. Financial Evidence - Bank statements showing required funds
4. English Language Certificate - IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent
5. Academic Certificates - Translated if not in English
6. Passport Photos - Meeting UK visa specifications

For Netherlands Students Specifically:

• Dutch bank statements are accepted (no translation needed)
• EU academic qualifications are recognized
• Previous UK study history (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Online Application

Access the UK government's official visa application website and complete the online form. The application typically takes 30-45 minutes and requires:

• Personal information and travel history
• Course and university details
• Financial information
• Supporting document uploads
• Biometric appointment booking

Step 4: Attend Biometric Appointment

Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre in the Netherlands. Available locations include:

• Amsterdam - Multiple centres available
• The Hague - Central location
• Rotterdam - Limited slots, book early

During your appointment, you'll provide fingerprints and photographs. Arrive 15 minutes early with all required documents.

Step 5: Track Your Application

After submission, track your application status online. Most applications are processed within 3-8 weeks, though peak periods (July-September) may take longer.

Financial Requirements Breakdown

Visa Application Costs (2026)

Cost Component	Amount (EUR equivalent)
Student visa fee	£490 (€570)
Immigration Health Surcharge	£776 per year (€904)
Biometric services	£19.20 (€22)
Priority processing (optional)	£500 (€582)
Total for 1-year course	£1,285 (€1,498)

Maintenance Funds Required

For courses outside London:

• £1,334 per month × course duration
• Example: 9-month course = £12,006 (€14,000)

For courses in London:

• £1,483 per month × course duration
• Example: 9-month course = £13,347 (€15,550)

Banking Requirements for Netherlands Students

Dutch banks like ABN AMRO, ING, and Rabobank statements are accepted. Ensure:

• Statements show 28 consecutive days of required funds
• Official bank letterhead and stamps
• Account holder name matches visa application
• Statements are recent (within 31 days of application)

Processing Times and Success Rates

Standard Processing

Timeline Breakdown:

• Application submission: Same day
• Biometric appointment: 1-5 days after submission
• Processing time: 3-8 weeks from biometric appointment
• Passport return: 1-2 working days after decision

Priority Services Available

For Netherlands applicants, priority processing options include:

• Priority Visa Service: 5 working days (£500)
• Super Priority Service: Next working day (£1,000)

Success Rates

Netherlands students historically show high visa approval rates:

• Overall approval rate: 98%
• First-time applications: 96%
• Applications with complete documentation: 99%

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: Financial Documentation

Issue: Many Dutch students struggle with the 28-day funds requirement.

Solution: Start saving early and avoid large transactions in the 28 days before application. Use a dedicated savings account for visa funds.

Challenge 2: English Language Requirements

Issue: Some Dutch universities don't require IELTS, but UK visas do.

Solution: Book IELTS early as test dates fill quickly. IELTS Academic required (not General).

Challenge 3: CAS Delays

Issue: Universities sometimes delay issuing CAS numbers.

Solution: Contact your university's international office directly. CAS is typically issued 3-4 months before course start.

Brexit Impact on Netherlands Students

Changes Since 2021

• No longer eligible for EU/home fee status
• Must apply for student visa (previously could study without visa)
• Cannot work unlimited hours (20 hours per week limit)
• Need visa for courses longer than 6 months

Continued Benefits

• No English language requirement changes
• Academic qualifications still recognized
• Travel between UK and Netherlands remains straightforward
• Strong bilateral education agreements continue

Working Rights and Post-Study Options

During Studies

Work Permissions:

• 20 hours per week during term time
• Unlimited hours during holidays
• No restriction on type of work
• Can work for university as teaching/research assistant

After Graduation: Graduate Route Visa

Eligibility:

• Complete eligible UK degree
• Apply before current visa expires
• Duration: 2 years for Bachelor's/Master's, 3 years for PhD
• Can work in any job at any skill level

Tips for Netherlands Students

Before Applying

1. Start Early: Begin preparation 4-6 months before course start
2. Check University Requirements: Confirm specific English language and academic requirements
3. Financial Planning: Open dedicated UK study savings account
4. Document Preparation: Get all certificates translated and certified if needed

During Application

1. Double-Check Information: Errors cause significant delays
2. Upload Clear Documents: Ensure all scans are readable
3. Book Biometric Appointment Early: Slots fill quickly in summer
4. Keep Copies: Maintain copies of all submitted documents

After Submission

1. Track Progress: Check application status regularly
2. Prepare for Arrival: Research accommodation and banking options
3. Understand Rights: Know your work and study permissions
4. Plan Extensions: Understand requirements for visa extensions if needed

Conclusion

Applying for a UK student visa from Netherlands requires careful preparation but follows a straightforward process for well-prepared applicants. With a 98% approval rate and clear requirements, Dutch students can confidently pursue their UK education goals by following this comprehensive guide and ensuring all documentation is complete before submission.

Key Statistics

📊 98% visa approval rate for Netherlands students applying to UK universities in 2026

💰 £1,334 monthly living costs required outside London, £1,483 in London for Netherlands students

🎓 £490 student visa application fee plus £776 annual immigration health surcharge for Dutch applicants

📈 3-8 weeks standard processing time from Netherlands to UK, with priority services available

🏛️ 20 hours weekly work permission during studies, unlimited during holidays for Netherlands students

⏰ 28 consecutive days of funds required in bank account before UK visa application from Netherlands

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for a UK student visa from Netherlands?

Complete the online application on the UK government website, gather required documents including CAS, financial proof, and English language certificate, book a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre in Amsterdam, The Hague, or Rotterdam, and submit your documents. The process takes 3-8 weeks with a 98% approval rate for complete applications.

What is the cost of a UK student visa for Netherlands students?

The total cost includes £490 visa application fee, £776 per year immigration health surcharge, and £19.20 biometric services fee. For a one-year course, expect to pay approximately £1,285 (€1,498) in visa-related costs, plus priority processing fees if you choose expedited service.

How much money do I need to show for a UK student visa from Netherlands?

You need to show tuition fees for the first year plus living costs of £1,334 per month (outside London) or £1,483 per month (in London). These funds must be held in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before application. Dutch bank statements are accepted without translation.

How long does UK visa processing take from Netherlands?

Standard processing takes 3-8 weeks from your biometric appointment. Priority processing (£500) reduces this to 5 working days, while super priority service (£1,000) offers next working day processing. Peak application periods (July-September) may experience longer processing times.

Can Netherlands students work while studying in the UK?

Yes, Netherlands students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and unlimited hours during holidays. You can work in any job type and also work for your university as a teaching or research assistant without hour restrictions. After graduation, the Graduate Route visa allows 2-3 years of unrestricted work.

What English language requirements apply to Netherlands students?

Most universities require IELTS Academic with minimum 6.0 overall score, though specific requirements vary by course and institution. TOEFL, PTE Academic, and some other tests are also accepted. Even though many Dutch students speak excellent English, you'll still need to provide official test results for visa purposes.

How has Brexit affected UK student visas for Netherlands students?

Since 2021, Netherlands students must apply for student visas and pay international fees (no longer EU/home rate). You're limited to 20 hours work per week during studies and need visas for courses over 6 months. However, academic qualifications are still recognized and the application process remains straightforward.

Where can I attend biometric appointments in Netherlands for UK visa?

Visa Application Centres operate in Amsterdam (multiple locations), The Hague (central location), and Rotterdam (limited slots). Book appointments early, especially during peak periods. Arrive 15 minutes early with all required documents, and you'll provide fingerprints and photographs during the appointment.

Key Takeaways

✅ Netherlands students need Student visa costing £1,285 total for one-year courses including health surcharge

✅ 98% approval rate with 3-8 weeks processing time from biometric appointment to decision

✅ Must show £1,334-£1,483 monthly living costs held for 28 consecutive days in Dutch bank account

✅ Can work 20 hours weekly during studies, unlimited during holidays, with Graduate Route visa available post-study

✅ Brexit means international fees and visa requirements, but streamlined process continues for Dutch applicants

✅ CAS from UK university, English language certificate, and complete financial documentation essential for success