Visa Information
Visa Types
You may submit your visa application at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
Please note: not all travel documents are recognized by the Netherlands. If you apply for a visa with such a non-recognized travel document, your visa application can be declared inadmissible. More detailed information is available on the European Union website.
Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing times.
Visa Types
All about your Visa
Important information - please read
Applications should be submitted in person (also babies and children).
For every document submitted, you must provide the original (to show at the counter) and one copy (to be attached to the visa file).
The documents are to be presented in (or translated to) Dutch, English or French.
The documents submitted will not be returned. Only the travel document will be returned.
All applicants must comply fully with the documents required for the category of visa they are applying for. Incomplete applications may not be accepted, and alternative documentation other than that which is stated on the website also may not be accepted.
You may submit your visa application at the Netherlands Embassy/Consulate-General or you may submit your application at the VFS Global visa application Centre.
All applicants applying for a visa need to schedule a (prior) appointment to submit their application.
Before applying, please ensure you are very clear on your purpose of visit – do remember VFS Global can assist and help you through the entire visa application process but is not permitted to advise or guide you on choosing a visa category. Since the work of VFS Global is primarily administrative in nature, VFS Global has no say on whether you will be granted a visa and how long it will take to process the application.
You may need a Schengen visa to stay in the Netherlands for a period of maximum 90 days in any 180-days period (short stay visa).
When you apply for a Schengen visa you should specify whether you need a single or multiple-entry visa. If such a visa is granted, it allows you to stay up to a maximum of 90 days in any 180 days period.
If you intend to travel in more than one country in the Schengen area, you must apply for a visa at the mission of the Schengen country where you intend to stay longest. If you intend to stay in each Schengen country for the same length of time, you must apply for the visa at the mission of the Schengen country to which you will travel first when entering the Schengen area.
To check which nationalities need a Schengen visa to enter The Netherlands and general information, click the below link:
https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/travel-and-residence/visas-for-the-netherlands
An application for a Schengen visa must be submitted to the consulate at least 15 working days before the intended visit. In general, an application cannot be lodged earlier than 3 months
before the start of the intended journey. The processing of visa applications usually takes up to 15 days. But it can sometimes take up to 60 days, if more information is needed. For instance,
you may need to undergo screening. You cannot apply for a visa more than 3 months before your intended departure.
A short stay Schengen visa does not automatically entitle you to enter the Schengen area. At the border or during other controls you may, for instance, have to provide information on your means of support, how long you intend to stay in the Schengen country, and why you are visiting the Schengen country.
You also should be able to prove you have sufficient funds for your stay in the Schengen area. In the Netherlands this is a minimum of € 34 per person per day. In some cases, such checks may result in a refusal for the visa holder to enter the Schengen country or the Schengen area.
It is therefore recommended that you carry with you copies of the documents which you presented when you applied for the visa (for example letters of invitation, travel confirmations, medical health insurance, other documents stating the purpose of your stay). This will help to make the border control procedure easier and avoid delays at the border.
If you want to stay in the Netherlands for longer than 90 days, you may require an authorization for temporary stay (MVV). More information can be obtained from the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND): https://ind.nl/en
The data collected physically (application files), will be forwarded each working day to the Consular Service Organization in Netherlands for processing.
The electronically encrypted data is transferred at the latest at the end of the working day to the Consular Service Organization in Netherlands for processing
The minimum processing time of a visa application is 15 days. Applicants are advised to leave enough time between the appointment date and travel date to have their visa application processed. No guarantees can be given on the visa application’s return date as delays may occur.
Tourist
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Overview
This visa is solely for the purpose of leisure travel including vacationing, cruising, sightseeing and other recreational activities. If during any portion of your visit to Netherlands you intend to engage in business, or official duties you must refer to other relevant visa categories.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
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Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for a tourist visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
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Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
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Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Business
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Overview
A business visa is required if during any portion of your visit you intend to conduct business or commercial activities, e.g. meetings, conferences, training.
Such a visa can only be issued to travellers not being paid for work by an entity within the Netherlands. If you intend to undertake paid work in the Netherlands you will need to obtain a work permit.
Orange Carpet
Applications for business visa of employees from companies registered with the Netherlands embassy under the Orange Carpet programme can also be submitted at the Visa Application Centre.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
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Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for a business visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Visiting Family and Friends
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Overview
If you are travelling to the Netherlands to visit family / friends (including girlfriend/boyfriend), you may apply for this visa.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Partner in long-distance relationship
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Overview
IUntil further notice, your partner from a country to which an entry ban applies may travel to the Netherlands under certain conditions. Your partner may stay in the Netherlands for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Children under the age of 18 can also travel with your partner.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee and a COVID-19 fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge and COVID-19 fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 245.00 GHS and a COVID-19 fee of 5 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 72.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- Due to COVID regulations the VFS centre is currently only using mandatory courier service to return the passport to the applicant. The cost are to be paid by the applicant.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
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Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
For detailed information, please visit the Government.nl page on the temporary arrangement for partners in long-distance relationships to see which documents are required.
You must both sign the Declaration of relationship for COVID-19 entry ban exemption form. On it you must indicate when your relationship started. You must also enclose proof of your relationship and time spent together. You decide what proof you send. For example:
- airline tickets
- previously used visas
- copies of passport stamps
- payment details showing that you spent time together somewhere (such as hotel reservations)
- statements by third parties that you are in a relationship (such as a statement from parents or friends)
- photos.
You must meet the conditions required for a short-stay visa if you are subject to a visa requirement for the Netherlands.
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Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Airport Transit
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Overview
Nationals of certain countries need an airport transit visa to change aircraft at an airport in a Schengen country. See the list of countries whose nationals need an airport transit visa.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for an airport transit visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Short-stay Caribbean Visa (90 days or less)
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Overview
If you want to stay in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom for 90 days or less, you may need a short-stay visa. This depends on your nationality. You may also need a short-stay visa if you are transiting through the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom.
What is a short-stay Caribbean visa?
- A short-stay Caribbean visa lets you travel throughout the Dutch Caribbean, i.e. Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St Eustatius and St Maarten.
- A standard short-term Caribbean visa is issued for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is a multiple-entry visa.
- A short-stay Caribbean visa does not permit you to undertake paid work. If you would like to work, you must have a work permit.
- A short-term Caribbean visa is not valid for travel to the European part of the Netherlands or to any other Schengen area country.
Check here for nationalities which do not require a visa.
Making an airport transit through the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Step 1: Complete the application form
Complete the online application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
Step 2: Get all the required documents
Get all the documents required for your application.
For every document submitted, you must provide the original (to show at the counter) and a photocopy (to be attached to the visa file). The documents must have been drawn up in (or translated into) Dutch, English, French or Spanish.
Step 3: Make an appointment online
Before you visit the Visa Application Centre, you will need to make an appointment at your preferred location using the online appointment system.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 3 (three) months before you intend to travel. In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful.
Dutch Caribbean visa
The Caribbean parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands consist of Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St Eustatius and St Maarten.
Whether you need a Caribbean visa depends on your nationality and the length of your stay.
On the website of the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country you can find out whether you need a visa.
The website also gives more information about travelling to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom.
Select your Caribbean visa:
Long-stay Caribbean Visa
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Overview
If you wish to stay in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom for longer than 90 days, in most cases you will need a residence permit. If you have applied for one already, please be aware that you may require a visa to collect your residence permit in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St Eustatius or St Maarten.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Please note: you can apply for a visa only when you have applied for your residence permit and your application has been approved. For Curaçao, provisional approval is enough.
Step 1: Complete the application form
Complete the online application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
Step 2: Get all the required documents
Get all the documents required for your application. Below you can find out which documents you need to provide and which requirements they must meet.
For every document submitted, you must provide the original (to show at the counter) and a photocopy (to be attached to the visa file). The documents must have been drawn up in (or translated into) Dutch, English, French or Spanish.
Passport
A passport or other travel document containing at least two blank pages. It should be valid for at least 3 months after you leave the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom.
Documents for children under 18
If you are applying for a visa for a child under 18, you must provide the child’s birth certificate and an identity document for each parent.
Proof of legal residence
You must be able to prove that you are legally resident in the country you are applying from. To do this, you can show your passport, residence permit or a visa.
Photo
You must submit a photo that meets Dutch requirements.
Photocopy of letter from immigration service
Has your residence permit application been approved by the local immigration service? If so, you must submit a photocopy of the letter your sponsor received.
- Aruba: temporary admission document (VTA)
- St Maarten: landing permit
- Curaçao: you do not need to provide a copy of the letter
- Bonaire, St Eustatius, Saba: authorisation for temporary stay (MVV-BES)
You should also bring any additional documents listed in the letter.
Step 3: Make an appointment online
Before you visit the Visa Application Centre, you will need to make an appointment at your preferred location using the online appointment system.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
In most cases, you'll be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre.
Return Visa
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Overview
You are a foreign national (i.e. non-Dutch) with a valid long-term residence permit for the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Your document was stolen, lost or has expired during your stay abroad and you have to return. In this case you need a return visa.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for a return visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Long-stay visa
In case you intend to stay in the Netherlands for a continuous period of longer than 90 days you will need a provisional residence permit (MVV), informally known as a ‘long-stay visa’.
Applying for a provisional residence permit and a residence permit must be done with the Netherlands Immigration and Naturalization Service IND.
You apply for a specific purpose of stay, for example living with a family member, study or work.
It is often your sponsor who applies. This is a person or organization that wants you to come
to the Netherlands. For example the family member you are going to stay with in the Netherlands. Or a school or employer.
If you do not have a sponsor, you apply for the MVV and residence permit yourself. To do this, please contact the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of nationality or in your country of permanent residence.
You must apply at least 3 (three) months before your intended stay in the Netherlands.
When you have received a positive decision on your application, you can make an appointment at the embassy to collect the MVV. Please refer to the ‘alien number’ (V number) in the letter of approval.
For detailed information about the MVV procedure plus the entry conditions for all nationalities, please visit the IND website.
More information on applying for a long-stay visa (MVV) for Ghana residents.
Visa facilitation for family members of EU/EEA or Swiss nationals
-
Overview
If you need a visa to travel to the Netherlands, in some situations, you may be eligible for free visa facilitation. Check whether your situation meets the conditions.
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Visa Facilitation for family members of EU/EEA and Swiss nationals
Applicant will have to provide evidence that he/she falls under this category. Applications for Schengen visas for this purpose are free of charge.
Service fees are applicable.
-
Documents Required
Go to the checklist to see which documents you need to submit with your application:
Checklist for a family members of EU/EEA/Swiss nationals.
In case you are a parent of a Dutch national under 18:
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Attending trade fairs
-
Overview
A short-stay Schengen visa with ‘attending trade fairs’ as the purpose of travel is for applicants who wish to travel to the Netherlands to attend a trade fair, either as a visitor or as an exhibitor.
A short-stay visa lets you visit the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. It is also valid in the other Schengen countries.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for an attending trade fairs visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Cultural visit
-
Overview
A visa for a cultural visit is required if during any portion of your stay you intend to attend one or more cultural events. Such a visa can only be issued to travellers not being paid for work by an entity within the Netherlands.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for a cultural visit visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Internship, training or language courses
-
Overview
An internship, training or language course visa is exclusively meant for someone who is going to undertake an internship or follow a training or language course.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Seafarer
-
Overview
Only seamen who are (1) nationals from a country with a visa requirement to enter the Schengen space, and (2) who intend to join a ship in a Dutch (or Latvian) port, need to apply for a seafarer visa.
The authority of the Netherlands to take in a visa application is determined by the (main) purpose, or the country of the port where the ship is docked (Article 5 Visa Code). As shown in below examples it is not determined by the flag under which a ship sails or where the applicant enters the Schengen area.
Entry into Schengen area through the Netherlands (for example Amsterdam Airport Schiphol):
- Dutch flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply for visa to the Netherlands
- Spanish flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply for visa to the Netherlands
- Panamanian flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply for visa to the Netherlands
- Dutch flagged ship + embarking in Spanish port => Apply visa to Spain
- Spanish flagged ship + embarking in Spanish port => Apply visa to Spain
- Panamanian flagged ship + embarking in Spanish port => Apply visa to Spain
The issuing authority reserves the right in case of doubt concerning a visa application to check with the relevant maritime and / or port authority if the ship where applicant will embark is indeed expected and if the applicant is listed for embarkment on the ship. At crossing the border the Dutch border authorities will check the conditions for admission in an independent and strict manner. At that moment the border authorities are authorized to cancel the visas of seafarers who are not eligible (anymore) for admission.
Blue Carpet
In Ghana a Blue Carpet procedure, exists for seafarers who meet BOTH of the following criteria:
- They are travelling to the Netherlands to board a ship in the Netherlands
- The ship that they are boarding is sailing under a Dutch flag or the ship is owned by a Dutch shipping agency (sailing under a non-Dutch flag).
The Blue Carpet procedure simplifies and accelerates the issue of visas to seafarers prior to their departure. It is also possible to apply for multiple-entry short-stay visa and for a longer period of validity.
The advantages of the procedure are :
- Cost-saving: Paying once for a (multi-entry) visa for a longer period of validity, instead of paying each time for a single-entry visa
- Reduction in the administrative burden: less visa applications.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for a seafarer visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 9 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Online Form
When filling this online form, please ready your passport and travel itinerary.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Medical treatment
-
Overview
An applicant travelling for medical treatment and the accompanying person(s) can apply for a medical treatment visa.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for a medical treatment visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Sports
-
Overview
A sports visit visa is required if you intend to participate in sports competitions. Such a visa can only be issued to travellers not being paid for work by an entity within the Netherlands.
Visa Validity
Upon receiving your visa at the Visa Application Centre, please check it carefully and inform the staff at the counter if you find an error. Correction of any error discovered after leaving the Visa Application Centre will require new visa registration and payment of new handling fee.
Upon receiving your visa by courier, please check it immediately and call the Visa Application Centre helpline if you find an error.
The validity of your visa indicates the dates between which you should enter AND leave the Schengen.
The length of your stay in the Schengen area is limited to the number of days indicated on your visa, even if your visa sticker itself has a longer validity. If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.
When a visa is valid for more than six months, the duration of stays is 90 days in a 180-day period. If you get a multiple-entry visa you may leave and return any number of times within the 180-day period, but the combined stay within the region must not total more than 90 days.
Travelling with children
If you apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for a minor (child under 18 years of age) there are specific requirements for the documents to be submitted (see the checklist).
When a child travels with one parent (or alone)
When a minor travels with one parent or alone a so-called “consent letter for minors travelling abroad” is needed. For more information, see the page Travelling with children on government.nl.
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global charges an extra service fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
- VFS service charge fee:
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 17 Euro or the equivalent in local currency of 223.00 GHS inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.
- All fees are to be paid in cash, point-of-sale device (POS) or Mobile Money.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
Please see the checklist for a sports visit visa with the complete list of requirements.
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Important Information : Your supporting documents will be scanned at the Visa Application Centre. Please do not staple the documents - only the use of paper clips is permitted.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities. For more information please check the website of the European Commission.
You can track the status of your application using your track & trace code. If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the Visa Application Centre
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Note for airplane crew members
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS during the processing of your visa application.
-
Download Forms
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is strongly recommended to complete the form using the online portal instead of the paper format.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
- Permission minor child consent form
- Online Visa Application Form
Short-stay Schengen visa
(For a maximum stay of 90 days per 180-day period)
If you wish to visit the Netherlands for a short period of time, you must obtain a visa prior to entry if you come from a country with a visa requirement for entering the Netherlands.
A short-stay Schengen visa allows the holder to transit through or remain in Dutch territory and all other Schengen States for a maximum period of three months (90 days) within any period of 180 days.
Visiting more than one Schengen country?
You will have to obtain the Schengen visa from the country where the main purpose of travel lies.
When travelling to more than one Schengen country, submit your application with the country where you will be staying the longest. In case of equally long stays, you have to apply with the Schengen country where you arrive first.
Also travelling to a non-Schengen country?
When also travelling to another country outside the Schengen area (for example in the Caribbean, Croatia, Romania, the United Kingdom and/or the United States), apply for the other visa first, before applying for the Schengen visa.
Select your short-stay Schengen visa:
Caribbean Carpet Programme
Do you regularly travel to Aruba, Curaçao, St Maarten, Bonaire, Saba or St Eustatius? If so, you may be able to apply for your short-stay visa through the Caribbean Carpet Programme. The programme simplifies the application procedure and your visa will also be valid for longer.
Applying for the Caribbean Carpet Programme
You can find out whether you are eligible for the Caribbean Carpet Programme on the website of the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, if so, how to apply. If your application for the Caribbean Carpet Programme is successful, you can apply for your visas at the Visa Application Centre.
Applying for a visa through the Caribbean Carpet Programme
If your application for the Caribbean Carpet Programme was successful, you will receive an -email confirmation. The email will also contain details about how to submit future visa applications to the Visa Application Centre.