International Service Desk

The International Service Desk (ISD) processes visa applications for all international employees, PhD candidates and guest lecturers of Utrecht University.

What does the ISD do?

What does the ISD do? The ISD is responsible for all immigration procedures across the university, including visa, residence permit, and work permit applications and extensions. The ISD also advises international employees and guests on housing, citizen service numbers (BSN), health insurance, and other matters related to their stay in the Netherlands, including family immigration procedures. The ISD does not provide services for students; they are referred to as Student Services.

What do the faculty HR departments do?

The faculty HR departments are responsible for contracts and hospitality agreements for international employees and guests. HR also provides information on working at the faculty, terms of employment (CAO), and all matters not related to housing, relocation, or the international aspects of employment.

Supervisors

Supervisors are advised to discuss the employment of a new international employee as soon as possible with the faculty HR advisor. In particular internationals from non-EU countries, who require a visa, need to prepare for their stay at least three to four months in advance. Non-compliance with legal procedures (IND) may result in serious consequences for the international or for the university as a whole. HR will register the new international employee or guest with the ISD as soon as possible.

Hospitality

International employees and guests also benefit from the university’s hospitable policy. Twice a year, the ISD organises welcome (network) meetings for all UU international staff, alongside annual themed webinars on health insurance and taxation. To support their relocation to Utrecht and the university, a welcome package has been prepared to assist internationals during their first days in the Netherlands. Among others, this package includes a grocery bag, an information guide on living in the Netherlands, and a sports pass.

Partner program

Often, the life partner accompanying an international employee wishes to continue their own career, but may need support in building a new social and professional network or adjusting to life in Utrecht. Utrecht University’s Dual Career initiative (Partner Program) is designed to provide this support.

Utrecht International Center – partner of Utrecht University

The Utrecht International Center (UIC) is a trusted guide for internationals in the Utrecht Region and is located in the Utrecht Municipality building. It offers practical information on education, housing, healthcare, language, culture, and more, and hosts (network) events for internationals.

The ISD and the UIC work closely together to provide a one-stop-shop service for internationals. This service assists with formalities such as municipal registration, obtaining a citizen service number, and accessing information on living and working in the Netherlands.

Privacy Statement

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Location ISD

The ISD is located on the Utrecht Science Park/De Uithof campus. Walk-in hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 am till 12.30 pm From Monday-Friday we can also be reached by email: internationalservicedesk@uu.nl

Visiting address: Heidelberglaan 8, 
3584 CH Utrecht Room 0.38 
Email: internationalservicedesk@uu.nl