How Long Does It Take to Get an MVV Visa for the Netherlands?

If you’re going to the Netherlands for work or study or for reunification with family, then you will need the MVV (Long-Stay Visa), which is the first step. Having said that, this could delay your start dates for jobs or university.

The new guide would include:

1. Current MVV processing times (Work, Study, Family visas).
2. What are the real causes of delay (and how to avoid them)?
3. Proven methods for speeding up approval.

If you’re going to the Netherlands for work or study or for reunification with family, then you will need the MVV (Long-Stay Visa), which is the first step. Having said that, this could delay your start dates for jobs or university.

The new guide would include:

1. Current MVV processing times (Work, Study, Family visas).
2. What are the real causes of delay (and how to avoid them)?
3. Proven methods for speeding up approval.

What Exactly Is the MVV Visa for the Netherlands?

The MVV is the provisional residence permit for those non-European Union citizens who require an entry visa to stay within the Netherlands for a period of 90 days in order to:

1. Work (via highly skilled migrant visa or job seeker visa).
2. Study at university.
3. Family reunification.

Key Fact: An MVV is just nothing other than an entry sticker-it is exchanged for a Dutch residence permit after arrival.

Netherlands MVV Visa Processing Times

1.  Work Visa (Including Highly Skilled Migrant & Job Seeker Visa)

1. Standard processing: 3-10 weeks.
2. Fastest reported approval: 2 weeks.
3. Watch out for: Delays often occur when employer documents are incomplete or when salary thresholds aren’t clearly proven.

2 . Student Visa

1. Standard processing: 3-8 weeks.
2. Fastest reported approval: As quick as 10 days.
3. Watch out for: Universities sometimes delay sending required approval letters, especially during peak intake seasons (June-August).

3. Family Reunion Visa

1. Standard processing: 5-12 weeks.
2. Fastest reported approval: 3 weeks.
3. Watch out for: Additional background checks may be required depending on family circumstances and nationalities involved.

Key Factors Affecting All MVV Processing Times:

1. Peak seasons (summer months are busiest).
2. Your nationality (some countries undergo additional verification).
3. Document quality (poor translations or unsigned forms cause setbacks).
4. IND workload (processing speeds vary monthly).

Why Timelines Vary:

1. Peak Seasons (June-August = slower for students).
2. Your Nationality (Some countries face extra checks).
3. Document Errors ( First cause of rejection → restarting the process).

Netherlands Job Seeker Visa Process & Timeline

For Indians applying for the Netherlands job search Visa, here’s the step-by-step timeline :

1. Pre-Application (1-2 Weeks)

1. Check Eligibility: Master’s/PhD degree OR meet salary threshold.
2. Gather Documents:
3. Passport (2+ years validity).
4. Degree certificates (notarized if needed).
5. Proof of funds (€1,500+/month in bank statements).
6. Health insurance covering the Netherlands.

2. Submit MVV Application (1 Day)

1. Apply at VFS Global Netherlands (India) or the Dutch embassy.
2. Pay fees.

3. IND Approval (3-10 Weeks)

1. The Dutch Immigration Service (IND) reviews your file.
2. Tip: If applying for a Job Seeker Visa, ensure your CV aligns with Dutch market needs.

4. Collect MVV Sticker (1 Week)

1. Once approved, book a VFS appointment to affix the visa.

5. Travel & Get Residence Permit (2 Weeks After Arrival)

1. Register at the Dutch municipality (BRP).
2. Your residence card arrives by post.

How to Speed Up Your MVV Visa in 2025?

Pro Tips to Avoid Delays

1. Apply Early (3+ months before intended travel).
2. Double-Check Documents (Use the IND checklist).
3. Follow Up Politely (Email IND if processing exceeds 10 weeks).
4. Avoid Peak Seasons (Student visas slow in summer).

Biggest Mistakes That Cause Rejection

1. Submitting unofficial translations of degrees.
2. Insufficient proof of funds (must cover 12 months).
3. Errors in the employer’s declaration (for work visas).

MVV Visa Denied? Here are Some Actions to Take

In the case of denial:

1. Verify the cause (a letter is sent by the IND).
2. Reapply (correct the mistakes within four weeks).
3. Appeal (only if you have very strong proof).

Note: Job Seeker Visa rejections are often because of unrecognized degrees or weak career plans.

Need Help? Let’s Get Your MVV Visa Faster!

Here at Abhinav Immigration Services we’re helping many individuals to take that next step to success with the Netherlands visa. The strategy for success in 2025 includes:

1. Make a Visa Eligibility Assessment.
2. Document Review and Error-Proofing.
3. Guide on Priority Processing.