Embassy of India
The Hague
******

Advisory for Indian students seeking admission/studying in the
Netherlands

• Credentials of universities: Students are advised to check the reputation, ranking, quality and background of institution/ university, before applying.

• Accommodation:  Please ensure that you have rented an accommodation before arriving in the Netherlands.  There is considerable shortage of housing in the Netherlands.

• Traveling to the Netherlands: Do carry financial instruments sufficient to meet your needs while traveling to the Netherlands. Carry proofs of payment of university fees and tuition deposit (if any) along with confirmation of accommodation before entering the country.

• Student registration: Students are advised to register themselves with Embassy of India, the Hague at https://indianembassynetherlands.gov.in/student_register/ 

• Know the university/institution: Know various services offered by your university and avail them. Generally, most of these services are funded from tuition fees. Enquire about them at the International Student Services Office of the university/institution.

• Learn the Dutch language: Speaking Dutch is important if you want to integrate with the Dutch society and to connect with fellow students. It is also very useful to know some Dutch if you want to do an internship or to find a part time job. In some cases, it may even be a requirement. You have to pass the Inburgeringsexamen (civic integration exams) at A2 level to get Permeant Resident permit in the Netherlands.

• Where to start learning Dutch: You can start learning Dutch before you come to the Netherlands. For example, by taking lessons with a Dutch teacher. You may be able to find one via the Dutch Embassy. Ask your institution’s international office if they can put you in touch with Dutch exchange students before you leave. They can tell you about Dutch student life and maybe even teach you some basic Dutch.

• Remain connected: Be in touch with the Embassy, local mentors/ guardians and Indian community organizations. Update your whereabouts with family and close friends especially when moving outside alone.

• Seek help if depressed/ anxious: It is natural to feel lonely while being in a new environment, away from home. Share your feelings with family, fellow students and teachers and feel free to connect with the Embassy. Do not hesitate to call professional help or seek university services if you are feeling depressed or having anxiety attack.

• Medical insurance: Make sure you have valid and adequate medical insurance during your stay in the Netherlands, preferably as recommended by the university.

• Keep your personal information and documents safe: Keep your personal details and documents safe, including your bank account, credit card details, passport/ visa, identification, immigration forms etc. since they can be easily misused. It may be useful to keep the softcopies of identity and immigration documents accessible.

• Beware of money mules/cat catcher: Anyone can be approached by money mules but criminals often target students. Beware of such people, social networking scams and telephone calls requesting for your personal information and/or bank account details for money transfer.

• In case of emergency while in the Netherlands: Dial 112 and connect with information line. In case of any untoward incident, report to the administrative division and International Students Office at the university immediately.

• Embassy: Please note the Embassy’s emergency number 0031 643743800. In case of any difficulty, please reach out to the following points of contact at the Embassy: 

Ms. Tara Pathak,
Counsellor (PIC & Education)
Email: fspic.thehague@mea.gov.in 

Mr. Rajesh Kumar Sinha,
Attaché (Consular)
Email: attcons.thehague@mea.gov.in   
                     

*****