Final Pre-Departure Checklist for the Netherlands
The last things to check before you leave India or Pakistan for the Netherlands, and what to do right after you land.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Final Pre-Departure Preparation
Your university has given you a place and the IND (the Dutch immigration office) has approved your permit. Use this list to check the last things before you fly.
Why This Checklist Is Essential
- Without a rental contract you cannot register with your city.
- Most banks need a BSN to open an account (ABN AMRO does not). You need a BSN to work.
When To Complete This Checklist
- After the IND decision: Book your MVV appointment within 3 months. India: Dutch embassy in New Delhi or consulate-general in Bangalore or Mumbai. Pakistan: embassy in Islamabad.
- Before you fly: Sign your housing contract and arrange insurance.
- First 5 days in Delft or Utrecht: Register with your city office (municipality). Other cities may differ.
- Within 3 months of getting your permit: Take your TB (tuberculosis) test at the public health service (GGD).
One tab at a time
Go through each tab and tick things off.
Originals with you
Keep original papers in your hand luggage, not your checked bag.
Ask your university
Your international office knows your IND file and your arrival days.
Collect your MVV before you fly
Comprehensive Checklist
Travel papers
The sticker lets you enter the Netherlands.
Your file number at the IND. Your university gives it to you.
For your city appointment
You need it to register on the city's list of residents (the BRP).
Some cities ask for it if you have not registered before. India: apostille (an official stamp that shows a paper is real). Pakistan: legalised (stamped as real) by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad or a camp office.
For your health
Take it to your public health service (GGD) appointment within 3 months of getting your permit.
If you only study, you can use health insurance from your home country or a private plan.
Baggage Allowances
- Passport with MVV sticker
- Rental contract
- Birth certificate
- Email with your V number
- Bank card
Initial Financial Planning
- Never pay an agent a fee to find you a room. You do not need to.
- Never sign a rental contract without seeing the room, at least in an online tour.
- Bank statement not older than 3 months
- Scholarship letter, if you have one
Additional Support Resources
Emergency services
112
Police, fire and ambulance in life-threatening situations. Free.
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