Visa Information
This page serves as a comprehensive guide for international students navigating the visa application process for pursuing their studies at St. Martinus University in Curaçao.
Understanding the Student Visa Process
Type of Visa Required for Curaçao
International students will primarily require a Landing Permit issued by the Government of Curaçao, followed by a Netherlands Visa or transit visa from their home country. Upon arrival in Curaçao, a Residency Permit (Sedula) is issued by the Government of Curaçao.
Who Needs to Apply
All international students who are not citizens of Curaçao or the Kingdom of the Netherlands are required to apply for the necessary permits and visas.
When to Start the Process
Step-by-Step Visa Application Guide
Gather all required documents, ensuring they are in English or accompanied by certified English translations, and that all scanned copies are clear and legible. This includes academic certificates, passport copy, letters of recommendation, and a Statement of Purpose.
After a successful Zoom interview, you will receive a Conditional Offer Letter. A non-refundable payment of $1,000 USD is required to confirm acceptance and initiate further enrollment steps.
- Landing Permit Application: Submit the first tuition installment ($16,350 USD), Apostilled Police Clearance Certificate and Birth Certificate (issued within 3 months), six passport-size photographs, attested Sponsorship Letter and NOC from parents, a Bank Letter showing a minimum balance of $8,000 USD, signed Landing Permit application forms, and payment for Immigration and Insurance Fees.
- Netherlands Visa Application: Once the Landing Permit is approved, pay for accommodation and food. Apply for the Netherlands Visa at your local VFS center, submitting your original passport, photocopies of all stamped pages, Sponsorship Letter with sponsor’s ID, Bank Statement (showing $8,000 USD balance), sponsor’s income tax returns, signed VFS Disclaimer Form, completed Visa Global Application Form, Landing Permit Letter, Accommodation Confirmation Letter, Letter of Enrollment, round-trip flight reservation, original travel insurance ($50,000 USD minimum coverage), two recent passport-size photographs, and Visa Appointment Confirmation Letter.
- Processing Timelines: The Landing Permit typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to process. Visa processing times for the Netherlands Visa will vary depending on your local VFS center.
- Receiving the Visa Approval: Upon visa approval, notify the university immediately to coordinate your arrival, pickup, and orientation.
Required Documents for Visa Application
Valid Passport (Minimum Validity Requirement)
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel date.
Acceptance Letter from St. Martinus University
Both the Conditional Offer Letter and the official Letter of Enrollment are crucial.
Proof of Tuition Payment or Financial Support
This includes payment of the first tuition installment ($16,350 USD), a Bank Letter showing a minimum balance of $8,000 USD in the student’s name, and a Sponsorship Letter from parents.
Passport-Sized Photographs (Specifications)
Six passport-size photographs for the Landing Permit, and two recent passport-size photographs adhering to visa photo specifications for the Netherlands Visa.
Medical Clearance Certificate
Proof of health and vaccination requirements will be requested.
Police Clearance Certificate
Issued within the last 3 months and Apostilled.
Completed Visa Application Form
Signed Landing Permit application forms and a properly completed Visa Global Application Form for the Netherlands Visa.
Financial Proof Requirements
- Minimum Funds Needed for Tuition and Living Expenses: Applicants must demonstrate financial capability to cover tuition fees and living expenses. A minimum bank balance of $8,000 USD is required for the Landing Permit application, along with proof of the sponsor’s income tax returns for the visa application.
- Accepted Formats for Proof (Bank Statements, Sponsorship Letter, etc.): A Bank Letter in the student’s name and a Sponsorship Letter from parents are accepted. If the account is in a different currency, a conversion to USD must be shown.
After Visa Approval
- Booking Travel to Curaçao: Once your visa is approved, proceed with booking your round-trip flight reservation to Curaçao.
- Immigration Entry Requirements at the Airport: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready for presentation upon arrival at immigration.
- Documents to Carry While Traveling: Carry your original passport, Landing Permit Letter, Accommodation Confirmation Letter, Letter of Enrollment, flight reservation, original travel insurance, and all other supporting documents.
Visa Renewal & Extensions
- When Renewal is Required: A Residency Permit (Sedula) is issued in Curaçao and will require renewal as per local government regulations.
- Documents Needed for Extension: Information regarding documents for extension will be provided by the university’s support services.
- How to Apply for Renewal While in Curaçao: The university will guide students through the process of applying for residency permit renewal while on the island.
Common Visa Issues & Solutions
- Missing Documents: Ensure all documents are prepared and verified against the checklist before submission. Certified English translations are crucial for non-English documents.
- Delays in Processing: Processing times vary, particularly for the Landing Permit (8-12 weeks). It is essential to start the application process well in advance.
- Reapplication Process if Rejected: In case of a rejection, the university’s admissions team will provide guidance on the reapplication process and address any identified issues.
