The Netherlands is part of the Schengen area. The Schengen area consists of various European countries. There are no border controls within this area. This means that nationals of these countries may freely travel to the other countries in the Schengen area.
The Schengen area consists of:
At all times, you need a valid passport or other travel document if you wish to travel. Your passport or travel document cannot be issued more than 10 years ago. When leaving the Schengen area your passport or travel document is still valid for another 3 months.
A valid 'single entry' visa allows you to enter the Schengen area once. You are allowed to stay in the Schengen area for 90 days in any 180 day period. During these 90 days you are allowed to travel to and stay in all Schengen countries. Are you travelling to the Schengen area via another country ? You then have to show that the Netherlands is the destination.
A valid mvv allows you to enter and depart the Netherlands and other countries in the Schengen area.
A valid Dutch residence permit allows you to stay in all countries in the Schengen area up to 90 days in any 180 day period.
Are you visiting a country outside the Schengen Area? Please contact the authorities of the country you want to visit. Also check visa requirements for countries you pass through on your travels. You may need a visa to visit the country. With a valid Dutch residence permit you can return to the Netherlands after your travels. Is your residence permit not valid anymore? Or does it expire during your travels? See if you can apply for a return visa.
The provisional residence permit (mvv) is a visa you need if you wish to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days. For more information, check Regular provisional residence permit (mvv).