Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf)
For non-EU nationals from MVV-required countries who need an entry visa before collecting a Dutch residence permit.
The Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) is a Dutch visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (Included in the linked residence permit fee (TEV procedure)) and processing time (~90 days (legal maximum) for the combined TEV decision), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) is for
For non-EU nationals from MVV-required countries who need an entry visa before collecting a Dutch residence permit.
Itself only an entry visa; the linked residence permit determines any path to settlement.
Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) - eligibility criteria
- National of a country whose citizens need an MVV
- A valid purpose of stay (work, study, family, etc.)
- A recognised sponsor or qualifying applicant in most cases
- Passed any required civic integration exam abroad (family routes)
- Meets the conditions of the underlying residence permit
Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) (Netherlands) is Included in the linked residence permit fee (TEV procedure), with an indicative processing time of ~90 days (legal maximum) for the combined TEV decision. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IND (Netherlands).
| Type | Entry visa (long stay) |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Applied for via the IND (usually together with the residence permit) at a Dutch mission abroad |
| Length of stay | Valid 90 days to enter and collect the residence permit |
| Work rights | Depends on the underlying residence permit |
| Study rights | Depends on the underlying residence permit |
| Government fee | Included in the linked residence permit fee (TEV procedure) |
| Processing time | ~90 days (legal maximum) for the combined TEV decision |
| Route to PR | Itself only an entry visa; the linked residence permit determines any path to settlement. |
Pathway & next steps
Itself only an entry visa; the linked residence permit determines any path to settlement.
Many applicants also compare Partner/Spouse · Residence permit for stay with partner or spouse (family reunification), Kennismigrant · Residence permit for highly skilled migrant (kennismigrant), Student · Residence permit for study (higher education). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Dutch route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) pitfalls we fix
Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) cost?
The Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) government fee is Included in the linked residence permit fee (TEV procedure). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IND (Netherlands) before applying.
How long does the Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~90 days (legal maximum) for the combined TEV decision. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) lead to permanent residence?
Itself only an entry visa; the linked residence permit determines any path to settlement.
Can I work on the Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf)?
Work rights: Depends on the underlying residence permit.
Who can apply for the Provisional residence permit (MVV / machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf)?
For non-EU nationals from MVV-required countries who need an entry visa before collecting a Dutch residence permit.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Netherlands government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IND (Netherlands) - official Netherlands immigration authority