Sufficient means for a Dutch student residence permit

What the amounts are

The IND publishes a table every year. For 2026 it lists €1,130.77 a month for higher education and €928.58 a month for MBO (senior secondary vocational education). They apply when the student finances their own stay. If someone living in the Netherlands finances your studies, income requirements for that person apply instead: the 2026 table runs from €2,564.48 to €3,654.73 a month depending on circumstances.

How you prove it

The institution applies for your permit, so the institution is who tells you what evidence it wants and how it wants it presented. Ask the admissions or international office before you move any money. Accepted forms can include a bank statement or a scholarship letter; confirm with your institution rather than assuming.

How this differs from other countries

Some countries use a blocked account or a fixed sum. Here the IND sets a monthly amount and your institution handles the evidence. Do not copy the arrangements of a country you read about elsewhere.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using last year’s number. The IND publishes a new table every year, so check the current one.
• Assuming a part-time job covers it. Work rights are limited, so plan to cover the amount without work.
• Forgetting tuition and the other costs. See tuition fees and cost of living.