Students who want to take courses in the Netherlands no longer pay six hundred euros for their entry visa and residence permit, but only three hundred. Scientific researchers benefit from the same measurement. The renewal fees for residence permits have also been lowered: from 375 to 300 euros. For students, that sum remains the same at 150 euros.

The price reduction has come into effect after a verdict by the Council of State. In October the body ruled the Netherlands does not adhere to the European guidelines for family reunification, and charges too much money for residence permits. Since the same can be applied for students, minister Fred Teeven (Safety and Justice) decided to change the fees for them as well.

Students and researchers who’ve paid the previous rate may be reimbursed if they paid after the verdict of the Council of State, Teeven said in a letter to parliament. PVV fears a major influx of immigrants and students, but Teeven is confident that won’t be the case.

On July 1, 2011, the costs for entry visa and residence permits saw a steep increase. According to Gerd Leers, who was minister of Immigration at the time, the increase was needed to cover IND expenses. Nonsense, according to several institutions. The European Committee also rules member states can only charge the actual expenses for a permit.