What is the MVV Visa in the Netherlands?

If you plan to live in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, chances are you’ll need an MVV visa, also known as a long-stay visa or provisional residence permit. This visa is the first step for many non-EU/EEA nationals who wish to stay in the country for work, study, or family reunification.

In this guide, we explain what the MVV visa is, who needs it, how to apply, and what to expect after you arrive in the Netherlands.

What is an MVV Visa?

The MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) is a Dutch long-stay visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the Netherlands and apply for a residence permit. It’s not the same as a short-stay Schengen visa and is typically valid for 90 days. Once you're in the Netherlands with an MVV, you can collect your Dutch residence permit from the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
This visa is mandatory for most non-EU/EEA nationals planning to live in the Netherlands for more than 90 days unless they are exempt.

Who Needs an MVV?

You generally need an MVV if you are:
    •    A non-EU/EEA or non-Swiss national
    •    Planning to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days
    •    Coming for work, study, family reunification, or as a highly skilled migrant

Some nationalities and purposes are exempt from the MVV requirement. For example, citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the UK, and the USA can apply for a residence permit without an MVV.

What is the TEV Procedure?

If you need an MVV, your application will go through the TEV procedure (Toegang en Verblijf – Entry and Residence). This process combines the MVV visa and residence permit application into one step.
In most cases, the sponsor in the Netherlands (such as an employer, university, or family member) submits the TEV application to the IND on your behalf.

MVV Visa Requirements

The exact requirements depend on your purpose of stay, but generally, you will need:
    •    A valid passport
    •    A completed MVV application form
    •    Proof of purpose (e.g. work contract, university admission letter, marriage certificate)
    •    Sufficient income or financial means
    •    Health insurance
    •    A clean criminal record
    •    Tuberculosis test (in some cases)

For workers, additional documents like a work permit or employment sponsor approval may be required.

How to Apply for an MVV Visa

1. Submit the application to the IND:?Usually done by your sponsor in the Netherlands through the TEV procedure.
2. Wait for the IND decision:?Processing time is generally 60 to 90 days.
3. Collect your MVV at the Dutch embassy/consulate:?If approved, you'll get a notification to collect your MVV sticker at the Dutch mission in your home country.
4. Travel to the Netherlands:?Once in the Netherlands, you can collect your residence permit and register with the local municipality.

What Happens After You Arrive?

After arriving with an MVV:
    •    Collect your residence permit at the IND desk
    •    Register with the municipality (BRP) within 5 days
    •    Get your BSN (citizen service number) for tax, work, and healthcare
    •    Take a TB test if required
This process legalizes your long-term stay in the Netherlands.

Common MVV Visa Types

    •    Family reunification MVV – for spouses, partners, or children
    •    Highly skilled migrant MVV – for foreign professionals
    •    Study MVV – for international students accepted into Dutch universities
    •    Regular employment MVV – for foreign workers in the Netherlands
    •    Au pair MVV – for cultural exchange programs
Each visa type has its own documentation and requirements.

Key Tips for a Successful MVV Application

    •    Always check if your sponsor is recognized by the IND
    •    Submit complete documents; missing information may delay processing
    •    Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 more months
    •    If you don’t need an MVV, you can apply for a residence permit directly in the Netherlands

Source

    •    Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) – MVV Visa Information

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and policies may change. Always consult the official IND website or a certified immigration advisor for the most accurate and personalized information.

FAQs

Do I need an MVV for short visits under 90 days??

No. The MVV is only for stays longer than 90 days. For short stays, you may need a Schengen visa depending on your nationality.

Can I work in the Netherlands with an MVV??

Yes, if your MVV is tied to a work permit or highly skilled migrant visa. You cannot work on a family reunification or study MVV unless your permit allows it.

How long is the MVV valid??

Usually 90 days. You must enter the Netherlands during that period to collect your residence permit.

Can I apply for an MVV on my own??

Only in certain cases. Usually, your sponsor (employer, family member, or university) submits the application.

Is it possible to extend or renew the MVV??

No, the MVV itself cannot be extended. Once you're in the Netherlands, you switch to a residence permit which can be extended.

What if my MVV is rejected??

You will receive a decision letter from the IND explaining the reason for refusal. You may have the right to appeal the decision.