Introduction
The Netherlands is a popular destination for travelers, students, and professionals alike. Whether you’re planning to visit for leisure, study, work, or live permanently, you will need the right visa. With various types of Netherlands visas available, it’s crucial to understand the differences, requirements, and processes involved to ensure a smooth application. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Netherlands visas, from the types of visas to the associated expenses and fees.For More Visas Visit Visaprocedures.com
Little About the Country
Currency: The official currency of the Netherlands is the Euro (€). One Euro is equivalent to approximately 1.10 USD (depending on the current exchange rate).
Language: Dutch is the official language, though English is widely spoken, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.
Religion: The Netherlands is a largely secular country, though Christianity is the most widely practiced religion, followed by Islam.
Economic Situation: The Netherlands boasts a strong, stable economy and is considered one of the wealthiest nations in the world. The country has a high standard of living, and it’s a hub for international trade, finance, and technology.
Phone Code: The international dialing code for the Netherlands is +31.
Step-by-Step Categories & Visa Types
1. Schengen Visa (Short-Stay Visa)
The Schengen Visa allows you to stay in the Netherlands for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is typically used for tourism, business trips, or visiting friends and family.
- Requirements: Valid passport, completed application form, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Supporting Documents: Travel itinerary, bank statements, invitation letter (if applicable).
- Application Process: Submit the application to the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Fees: €80 for adults, €40 for children (approximately $88 and $44 USD).
2. Long-Stay Visa (MVV)
For those who intend to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, the MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) is the visa you will need. Common reasons for obtaining an MVV include studying, working, or family reunification.
- Requirements: Proof of purpose (e.g., admission to a Dutch institution, employment contract), valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, health insurance.
- Supporting Documents: Birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), residence permit application.
- Application Process: Apply at a Dutch embassy in your home country or online through the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
- Fees: Approximately €174 ($192 USD).
3. Student Visa
For international students accepted into a Dutch educational institution, a student visa allows them to live and study in the Netherlands for the duration of their studies.
- Requirements: Proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution, sufficient financial means to support yourself, valid passport, health insurance.
- Supporting Documents: Admission letter, proof of financial means (bank statement or scholarship details), accommodation confirmation.
- Application Process: Your university usually submits your application to the IND.
- Fees: Approximately €174 ($192 USD).
4. Work Visa
If you have secured a job in the Netherlands, you will need a work visa. There are various work visas depending on your profession, including highly skilled migrant visas, seasonal worker visas, and entrepreneur visas.
- Requirements: Valid job offer from a Dutch employer, employment contract, proof of qualifications, valid passport.
- Supporting Documents: Employment contract, company registration (if self-employed), health insurance.
- Application Process: Your employer typically applies on your behalf to the IND.
- Fees: Approximately €320 ($352 USD).
5. Family Reunification Visa
For individuals who wish to join their family members already residing in the Netherlands, the family reunification visa allows them to stay long-term.
- Requirements: Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate), valid passport, proof that your family member is legally residing in the Netherlands.
- Supporting Documents: Marriage or birth certificate, proof of sufficient income from your family member in the Netherlands.
- Application Process: Apply through the IND, often with the help of your family member.
- Fees: Approximately €174 ($192 USD).
6. Working Holiday Visa
The Netherlands offers working holiday visas for young people from specific countries. This visa allows you to work while traveling in the country.
- Requirements: Must be between 18-30 years old, valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, health insurance.
- Supporting Documents: Proof of funds, return ticket.
- Application Process: Submit your application to the Dutch embassy in your home country.
- Fees: Approximately €57 ($63 USD).
Visa Requirements
For all types of visas, the following requirements are commonly necessary:
- A valid passport
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photos (meeting specific size and background requirements)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements)
- Travel or health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Purpose-specific documents (such as a letter of admission for students or an employment contract for workers)
Supporting Documents
Each visa type has its specific supporting documents based on the purpose of the stay. Always ensure to double-check the specific requirements before submitting your application to avoid delays or rejections.
Application Process
- Gather Necessary Documents: Ensure you have all the required documents, including application forms, passport photos, and supporting documents.
- Submit Application: Depending on the visa type, you will submit your application either online through the IND or in person at a Dutch embassy.
- Pay Fees: Visa application fees vary by type. Ensure to pay the appropriate fee during your application submission.
- Biometrics: For most visa applications, you will need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- Wait for Decision: Processing times vary by visa type but generally range from 2-6 weeks for short-term visas and 3-6 months for long-term visas.
Fees (Local Currency and Dollars)
- Schengen Visa: €80 for adults, €40 for children ($88 and $44 USD)
- Long-Stay Visa (MVV): €174 ($192 USD)
- Student Visa: €174 ($192 USD)
- Work Visa: €320 ($352 USD)
- Family Reunification Visa: €174 ($192 USD)
- Working Holiday Visa: €57 ($63 USD)
Pre-Arrival Expenses
- Flight Costs: Depending on where you’re coming from, expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $1500 for a round-trip ticket to the Netherlands.
- Travel Insurance: Approximately €30-€100 ($33-$110 USD) per month, depending on the coverage.
- Visa Fees: As outlined above, these vary depending on the visa type.
- Accommodation Deposits: If renting, expect to pay one to two months of rent upfront, ranging from €500-€1500 ($550-$1650 USD) depending on location.Link for more Cost
Post-Arrival Expenses
- Rent: Monthly rent in the Netherlands varies widely based on the city. In Amsterdam, expect to pay around €1000-€2000 ($1100-$2200 USD) per month, while smaller towns may be less expensive.
- Utilities: Expect to pay around €150-€250 ($165-$275 USD) per month for electricity, water, and internet.
- Groceries: Monthly grocery costs typically range between €200-€400 ($220-$440 USD) depending on your lifestyle.
Timeline
The visa application process can vary in duration:
- Schengen Visa: 2-4 weeks.
- Long-Stay Visa (MVV): 3-6 months.
- Work and Student Visas: 4-8 weeks.
- Family Reunification Visa: 3-6 months.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of Netherlands visas is crucial for anyone planning to visit or live in the country. Whether you’re a student, worker, or just visiting, each visa type comes with specific requirements, processes, and expenses. To ensure a successful visa application, it’s important to gather the necessary documents, meet the requirements, and be aware of the associated costs.
For more detailed information, be sure to visit the official Dutch government website at www.netherlandsworldwide.nl.
If you have any questions or would like to share your experience with obtaining a Netherlands visa, feel free to comment below!
URLs
Here are some official reference links where you can find detailed information and apply for various types of Netherlands visas:
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- Ministry of Finance
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature
- Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport
- Ministry of Justice and Security
- Study in Holland – Visa Information
- Government of the Netherlands – Visas and Permits
- Netherlands Worldwide – Visas for the Netherlands
- Do I need a visa?
- Applying for a Schengen visa
- Applying for a long-stay visa (MVV)
- Tracking the status of your visa application
- More about visa for the Netherlands
- Do I need a visa for the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom?
- Short-stay visa (up to 90 days)
- Long-stay visa (more than 90 days)
- More about visa for the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom
These links should guide you to the relevant official pages where you can start your application process and get further details on the requirements and procedures for obtaining a Netherlands visa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Netherlands Visas
1. What Is a Netherlands Visa?
A Netherlands visa is an official document that allows foreign nationals to enter, stay, or work in the Netherlands for a specific period, depending on the type of visa.
2. Do I Need a Visa to Visit the Netherlands?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not need a visa, while others may require a Schengen visa for short stays.
3. What Are the Different Types of Netherlands Visas?
The main types of Netherlands visas include the Schengen visa (short-stay), long-stay visa (MVV), student visa, work visa, and family reunification visa.
4. How Long Can I Stay in the Netherlands With a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa allows you to stay in the Netherlands for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
5. How Do I Apply for a Netherlands Visa?
To apply for a Netherlands visa, you must submit an application to the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country, along with the required documents and fees.
6. What Are the Requirements for a Netherlands Schengen Visa?
Common requirements include a valid passport, completed application form, passport photos, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds.
7. How Long Does It Take to Process a Netherlands Visa?
Processing times vary depending on the visa type, but generally, Schengen visas take 2-4 weeks, while long-stay visas can take 3-6 months.
8. How Much Does a Netherlands Visa Cost?
The cost of a Netherlands visa varies by type. A Schengen visa typically costs €80 for adults, while a long-stay visa (MVV) costs around €174.
9. Can I Work in the Netherlands With a Schengen Visa?
No, a Schengen visa does not permit you to work in the Netherlands. You need a work visa or a residence permit to work legally.
10. What Is an MVV (Long-Stay Visa)?
An MVV is a long-stay visa that allows you to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, usually for study, work, or family reunification purposes.
11. Can I Extend My Schengen Visa While in the Netherlands?
In most cases, you cannot extend a Schengen visa. If you need to stay longer, you must leave the Schengen Area and apply for a new visa.
12. What Is a Residence Permit in the Netherlands?
A residence permit is a document that allows you to live in the Netherlands for an extended period, typically issued after obtaining an MVV.
13. Do I Need a Health Insurance for a Netherlands Visa?
Yes, you must have health insurance that covers medical emergencies for at least €30,000 to apply for a Netherlands visa.
14. Can I Travel to Other Schengen Countries With a Netherlands Visa?
Yes, a Netherlands Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within the entire Schengen Area.
15. What Is a Working Holiday Visa for the Netherlands?
A working holiday visa allows young people from specific countries to work and travel in the Netherlands for up to one year.
16. How Can I Check the Status of My Netherlands Visa Application?
You can check your visa application status online through the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) or by contacting the embassy.
17. What Are the Documents Required for a Netherlands Student Visa?
Common documents include a valid passport, proof of enrollment, proof of financial means, health insurance, and accommodation confirmation.
18. Can I Work on a Student Visa in the Netherlands?
Yes, international students can work part-time in the Netherlands, but there are restrictions on the number of hours you can work.
19. What Is the Validity of a Netherlands Visa?
The validity of a Netherlands visa depends on the type. A Schengen visa is valid for up to 90 days, while long-stay visas and residence permits have longer validity.
20. What Are the Requirements for a Netherlands Work Visa?
Requirements typically include a valid job offer, proof of qualifications, employment contract, and proof of financial means.
21. How Do I Appeal a Rejected Netherlands Visa Application?
If your visa application is rejected, you can appeal the decision by submitting a written appeal to the Dutch embassy or consulate within four weeks.
22. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa Online?
Yes, certain visa types, such as the MVV, can be applied for online through the IND website, depending on your nationality and circumstances.
23. What Is a Short-Stay Visa for the Netherlands?
A short-stay visa, also known as a Schengen visa, allows you to stay in the Netherlands for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or family visits.
24. What Is the Netherlands Civic Integration Exam?
The Civic Integration Exam is a test that some long-stay visa applicants must pass to prove their knowledge of Dutch language and culture.
25. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa From a Third Country?
Yes, in some cases, you can apply for a Netherlands visa from a country other than your home country, but you must have legal residency in that country.
26. What Is a Netherlands Visa Sponsorship?
Visa sponsorship refers to the financial and legal responsibility taken by a Dutch resident or organization to support a visa applicant.
27. What Are the Netherlands Visa Photo Requirements?
Visa photos must be 35x45mm in size, taken against a white background, and meet specific guidelines regarding facial expression and head coverage.
28. Can I Bring My Family to the Netherlands on a Work Visa?
Yes, you can bring your immediate family members to the Netherlands on a family reunification visa if you have a valid residence permit.
29. What Is the Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa?
While the Netherlands does not have a specific digital nomad visa, you can apply for a self-employed residence permit if you meet certain criteria.
30. What Is the Netherlands Startup Visa?
The Netherlands startup visa is a residence permit for entrepreneurs who want to start an innovative business in the country.
31. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa Without a Job Offer?
Yes, you can apply for a visa for purposes such as study, tourism, or starting a business without a job offer. However, a work visa requires an employment contract.
32. What Is a Netherlands Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly skilled non-EU citizens, allowing them to work in the Netherlands and other EU countries.
33. What Is the Netherlands Au Pair Visa?
The au pair visa allows young people to live with a host family in the Netherlands, providing childcare in exchange for room, board, and pocket money.
34. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for Medical Treatment?
To get a visa for medical treatment, you need to provide a medical certificate from a Dutch hospital, proof of sufficient funds, and health insurance.
35. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Family Reunification?
This visa allows family members of Dutch residents or citizens to join them in the Netherlands for long-term stays.
36. Can I Travel to the Netherlands With a Criminal Record?
Whether you can travel to the Netherlands with a criminal record depends on the nature of the crime and whether it poses a security threat to the country.
37. What Are the Financial Requirements for a Netherlands Visa?
Financial requirements vary by visa type but generally include proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, such as bank statements or a sponsor’s financial support.
38. How Do I Prove Accommodation for a Netherlands Visa?
Proof of accommodation can include hotel reservations, a rental agreement, or an invitation letter from a host in the Netherlands.
39. Can I Study in the Netherlands With a Tourist Visa?
No, you cannot study in the Netherlands with a tourist visa. You must apply for a student visa to enroll in a Dutch educational institution.
40. How Long Does It Take to Get a Netherlands Work Visa?
Processing times for work visas typically range from 4-8 weeks, depending on the type of work and your nationality.
41. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Volunteers?
The volunteer visa allows non-EU citizens to work as volunteers in the Netherlands, usually through a recognized organization.
42. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Conference or Event?
To attend a conference or event in the Netherlands, apply for a short-stay Schengen visa and provide proof of registration and accommodation.
43. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Artists and Performers?
Artists and performers can apply for a work visa if they have a contract with a Dutch organization or are participating in a cultural event.
44. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Minor?
Yes, minors can apply for a Netherlands visa, but the application must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian, along with consent and additional documentation.
45. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Researchers and Scientists?
Researchers and scientists can apply for a work visa or a residence permit under the highly skilled migrant scheme.
46. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Religious Event?
To attend a religious event, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa, providing proof of your participation and accommodation details.
47. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Skilled Workers?
The skilled worker visa, often part of the highly skilled migrant program, allows non-EU professionals to work in the Netherlands.
48. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Refugee?
Refugees can apply for asylum in the Netherlands, but the process is different from applying for a standard visa.
49. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Asylum Seekers?
Asylum seekers in the Netherlands are provided temporary protection while their asylum application is processed.
50. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Startup Business?
To start a business in the Netherlands, you can apply for a startup visa, which requires a business plan and proof of financial means.
51. What Is the Netherlands Visa for High-Net-Worth Individuals?
High-net-worth individuals can apply for a residence permit under the investor visa program, which requires a substantial financial investment in the Netherlands.
52. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Have Dual Citizenship?
Yes, if you have dual citizenship, you can apply for a Netherlands visa using one of your nationalities. Ensure you meet the requirements for that nationality.
53. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Diplomats and Government Officials?
Diplomats and government officials can apply for a diplomatic visa, which allows them to perform their duties in the Netherlands.
54. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for Film Production?
To work on a film production in the Netherlands, you can apply for a work visa, providing proof of your role in the production and financial support.
55. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Musicians and Composers?
Musicians and composers can apply for a work visa if they have a contract to perform or work in the Netherlands.
56. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am Self-Employed?
Yes, self-employed individuals can apply for a residence permit, provided they meet the criteria for entrepreneurship or the self-employed visa.
57. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Caregivers and Domestic Workers?
Caregivers and domestic workers can apply for a work visa if they have a job offer from a Dutch employer and meet the necessary qualifications.
58. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Trade Fair or Exhibition?
To attend a trade fair or exhibition, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa, providing proof of your participation and accommodation details.
59. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Journalists and Media Professionals?
Journalists and media professionals can apply for a work visa if they have an assignment or contract to work in the Netherlands.
60. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Retiree?
Yes, retirees can apply for a residence permit if they have sufficient income and health insurance to support their stay in the Netherlands.
61. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Seasonal Workers?
The seasonal worker visa allows non-EU citizens to work in the Netherlands for up to six months in sectors like agriculture and horticulture.
62. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Language Course?
To attend a language course, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa or a student visa, depending on the course duration.
63. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Freelancers?
Freelancers can apply for a self-employed residence permit, provided they meet the requirements for self-employment in the Netherlands.
64. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Digital Nomad?
While the Netherlands does not have a specific digital nomad visa, you can apply for a self-employed residence permit if you meet the criteria.
65. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Volunteers and Charity Workers?
Volunteers and charity workers can apply for a short-stay visa if they are participating in a recognized volunteer program.
66. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Cultural Event?
To attend a cultural event, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa, providing proof of your participation and accommodation details.
67. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Au Pairs?
The au pair visa allows young people to live with a host family in the Netherlands, providing childcare in exchange for room, board, and pocket money.
68. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Student on a Gap Year?
Yes, you can apply for a student visa or a working holiday visa, depending on your plans during your gap year.
69. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Seasonal Workers?
The seasonal worker visa allows non-EU citizens to work in the Netherlands for up to six months in sectors like agriculture and horticulture.
70. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Language Course?
To attend a language course, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa or a student visa, depending on the course duration.
71. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Freelancers?
Freelancers can apply for a self-employed residence permit, provided they meet the requirements for self-employment in the Netherlands.
72. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Digital Nomad?
While the Netherlands does not have a specific digital nomad visa, you can apply for a self-employed residence permit if you meet the criteria.
73. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Volunteers and Charity Workers?
Volunteers and charity workers can apply for a short-stay visa if they are participating in a recognized volunteer program.
74. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Cultural Event?
To attend a cultural event, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa, providing proof of your participation and accommodation details.
75. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Au Pairs?
The au pair visa allows young people to live with a host family in the Netherlands, providing childcare in exchange for room, board, and pocket money.
76. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Student on a Gap Year?
Yes, you can apply for a student visa or a working holiday visa, depending on your plans during your gap year.
77. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Skilled Workers?
The skilled worker visa, often part of the highly skilled migrant program, allows non-EU professionals to work in the Netherlands.
78. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Refugee?
Refugees can apply for asylum in the Netherlands, but the process is different from applying for a standard visa.
79. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Asylum Seekers?
Asylum seekers in the Netherlands are provided temporary protection while their asylum application is processed.
80. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Startup Business?
To start a business in the Netherlands, you can apply for a startup visa, which requires a business plan and proof of financial means.
81. What Is the Netherlands Visa for High-Net-Worth Individuals?
High-net-worth individuals can apply for a residence permit under the investor visa program, which requires a substantial financial investment in the Netherlands.
82. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Have Dual Citizenship?
Yes, if you have dual citizenship, you can apply for a Netherlands visa using one of your nationalities. Ensure you meet the requirements for that nationality.
83. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Diplomats and Government Officials?
Diplomats and government officials can apply for a diplomatic visa, which allows them to perform their duties in the Netherlands.
84. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for Film Production?
To work on a film production in the Netherlands, you can apply for a work visa, providing proof of your role in the production and financial support.
85. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Musicians and Composers?
Musicians and composers can apply for a work visa if they have a contract to perform or work in the Netherlands.
86. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am Self-Employed?
Yes, self-employed individuals can apply for a residence permit, provided they meet the criteria for entrepreneurship or the self-employed visa.
87. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Caregivers and Domestic Workers?
Caregivers and domestic workers can apply for a work visa if they have a job offer from a Dutch employer and meet the necessary qualifications.
88. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Trade Fair or Exhibition?
To attend a trade fair or exhibition, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa, providing proof of your participation and accommodation details.
89. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Journalists and Media Professionals?
Journalists and media professionals can apply for a work visa if they have an assignment or contract to work in the Netherlands.
90. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Retiree?
Yes, retirees can apply for a residence permit if they have sufficient income and health insurance to support their stay in the Netherlands.
91. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Seasonal Workers?
The seasonal worker visa allows non-EU citizens to work in the Netherlands for up to six months in sectors like agriculture and horticulture.
92. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Language Course?
To attend a language course, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa or a student visa, depending on the course duration.
93. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Freelancers?
Freelancers can apply for a self-employed residence permit, provided they meet the requirements for self-employment in the Netherlands.
94. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Digital Nomad?
While the Netherlands does not have a specific digital nomad visa, you can apply for a self-employed residence permit if you meet the criteria.
95. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Volunteers and Charity Workers?
Volunteers and charity workers can apply for a short-stay visa if they are participating in a recognized volunteer program.
96. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Cultural Event?
To attend a cultural event, you can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa, providing proof of your participation and accommodation details.
97. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Au Pairs?
The au pair visa allows young people to live with a host family in the Netherlands, providing childcare in exchange for room, board, and pocket money.
98. Can I Apply for a Netherlands Visa If I Am a Student on a Gap Year?
Yes, you can apply for a student visa or a working holiday visa, depending on your plans during your gap year.
99. What Is the Netherlands Visa for Skilled Workers?
The skilled worker visa, often part of the highly skilled migrant program, allows non-EU professionals to work in the Netherlands.
100. How Do I Get a Netherlands Visa for a Startup Business?
To start a business in the Netherlands, you can apply for a startup visa, which requires a business plan and proof of financial means.