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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

The Schengen visa must be obtained from a consulate or consular section of the country of YOUR MAIN TRAVEL DESTINATION. If you are traveling to several countries in the Schengen area, please file your application with the consulate or consular section of the country where you will be staying for the longest time.

If you wish to travel to different countries of the Schengen area without a main destination being determined, the visa application will be made by the country corresponding to the applicant's "first point of entry". Please check your travel plans before submitting your request.

Short stay visa

You must apply for a "short stay visa" if you intend to travel to the Netherlands (and if applicable to other Schengen States):

Either for a stay of up to 90 days or for several stays with a cumulative duration of 90 days in any 180-day period The required visa category depends on the main reason for your stay.

For more information : Schengen Information System II

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:

TOURIST

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

    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 VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist tourist visa with the complete list of requirements.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.
    • Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    • 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.

BUSINESS

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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, trade fairs.

    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 VFS Netherlands Visa Application Centre.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist business / professional visa with the complete list of requirements..

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.
    • Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    • Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.
    • 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.

VISITING FAMILY AND FRIENDS

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • Overview

    If you are traveling to the Netherlands to visit family / friends (including girlfriend/boyfriend), you may apply for this visa.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

    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 VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for a visiting friends and family visa with the complete list of requirements.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.
    • Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    • Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.
    • 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.

Visa Facilitation for Family Members of EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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 (Ministry of Foreign Affairs website).

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • 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

    Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • 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:

    Checklist for parent(s) of Dutch nationals under 18

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.

    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.

    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.

Airport Transit

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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.

    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.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for an airport transit visa with the complete list of requirements.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.

    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.

    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.

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 e-mail confirmation. The e-mail will also contain details about how to submit future visa applications to the Visa Application Centre.

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:

Cultural, Sports, Religious, Education, Research, Vocational Training

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • Overview

    A visa for cultural, sports, religious, educational, research or vocational training purposes is required if during any portion of your stay you intend to:

    • attend one or more cultural events;
    • participate in one or more sports events;
    • engage in religious activity;
    • take part in educational activity;
    • take part in research activity;
    • take part in vocational training.

    Such a visa can only be issued to travellers not being paid for work by an entity within the Netherlands.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

    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 VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for a cultural visa with the complete list of requirements.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.

    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.

    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.

Official Visit

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • Overview

    If you hold a diplomatic or official passport and the purpose of your visit is to participate in intergovernmental meetings, consultations, negotiations or events et cetera you must apply for an official visit visa.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for an official visit visa with the complete list of requirements.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.

    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.

    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.

Seafarers

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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 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 visa to the Netherlands
    • Spanish flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply visa to the Netherlands
    • Panamanian flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply 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

    Entry into Schengen area not through the Netherlands but through another Schengen country (for example Airport in Paris):

    • Dutch flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply visa to the Netherlands
    • Spanish flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply visa to the Netherlands
    • Panamanian flagged ship + embarking in Dutch port => Apply 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 the Philippines 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.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for a seafarers visa with the complete list of requirements.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    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.

    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.

VISA AFTER APPROVED APPEAL

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo specifications and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • Overview

    If your application for a short stay visa for the Netherlands has been refused, you can object against this decision by sending an objection letter to the IND. If your appeal or objection is successful, your application will be approved.

    This visa category is solely for applicants whose appeal or objection has been approved by the IND.

    There is no need to schedule an appointment for this category. Applicants can walk in from 09am to 02pm hrs.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    If your objection has been approved after an appeal, you do not have to pay the official consular visa fee again. However, you will have to pay the VFS service charge.

    • All payments will be collected in MAD cash only.
    • Applicant shall be levied a VFS service charge of 255 Euro per application
    • For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    • A valid travel document

    • The no-objection letter (and a copy) stating that your objection has been successful
    • Any documents mentioned in the no-objection letter (if applicable). For example, a valid:
      • hotel
      • flight reservation
      • proof of insurance

  • Photo specifications and fingerprints

    NOT APPLICABLE

  • Processing Time

    The earliest you can apply for this visa category is 1 week after the issuance date of the no-objection letter. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.

    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, your passport will remain at the Dutch embassy while your visa application is being processed.

  • 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.

    Online visa application form

Partner in long-distance relationship

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • Overview

    Until 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.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    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.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.
    • Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    • Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.
    • 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.

Medical Treatment

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • Overview

    An applicant travelling for medical treatment and the accompanying person(s) can apply for a medical treatment visa.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

    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 VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for a medical visa with the complete list of requirement.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.

    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.

    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.

Remigrant Visa

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • Overview

    This category of short-stay Schengen visa is for people who are a remigrant, or partners and/or underage (step/foster)children of remigrants. A remigrant is a person who previously migrated to the Netherlands, but returned to his/her former country and is currently receiving a remigration benefit. Remigrants must be 55 years old or over to apply for a remigrant visa.

    When you apply for this visa type, you will have to provide evidence that you fall under this category.

    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.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for a remigrant visa with the complete list of requirements.

    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

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    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.

    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.

Entry visa

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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 for an entry 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.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • Documents Required

    Please see the checklist for a entry visa with the complete list of requirements.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • 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.

    Due to a technical issue at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is a longer processing time for visa applications. The processing time may take up to 4 weeks. We apologize for the inconvenience.

    Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.

    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.

    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.

Long-stay Visa

  • Overview

  • Overview

    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 Morocco residents (page in French).

Short-stay Caribbean Visa

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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

    Check if you require a visa

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • 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.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • Processing Time

    The processing time for a Caribbean visa is generally about 1 week. Applicants are strongly advised to make an appointment well in advance of the travel date so that their application is submitted at VFS at least 3 to 4 weeks before the travel date but no earlier than three (3) months prior to their departure. Please be aware that in the run-up to holidays (generally the period March up to and including July) and festive seasons the waiting time to get an appointment increases considerably.

    Please note: After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.

Long-stay Caribbean visa

  • Overview
  • Visa Fees
  • Documents Required
  • Photo and fingerprints
  • Processing Time

  • 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.

    Check the details on your visa

    Upon receiving your visa at VFS, please ensure that all the information is accurate, including your name and the visa’s validity period. If there’s a mistake on your visa, the airline may not let you board your flight or you may be refused entry into the Schengen area.

    Is there a mistake on your visa? Notify the agent at VFS Global immediately.

    If you notice the mistake at a later stage or if your visa was sent by courier, please contact the Dutch embassy immediately.

    During which period can I travel?

    The fields 'From' and 'Until' on your visa tell you how long your visa is valid for.

    • ‘From’: the first day that you can enter the Schengen area
    • ‘Until’: the last day by which you must leave the Schengen area

    How long can I stay?

    The field ‘Duration of stay’ on your visa tells you how many days you may stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, within the period of validity mentioned at 'From' and ‘Until’. This is a maximum of 90 days within any 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 Schengen area must not total more than 90 days.

    If you overstay, you risk a two-year visa sanction for all Schengen countries.

  • Visa Fees

    Please note that VFS Global offers an additional optional service for visa applicants in Morocco. VFS charges an extra service fee for this service, to be paid by the applicant.

    • For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government, click here.
    • VFS service charge:

      Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge of 23 Euro (for submission with biometrics) inclusive of VAT per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application centre.

    • Visa fee payment can only be made in cash (Moroccan MAD).
    • All fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees are being paid as per the exchange rate provided by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Rabat.

  • 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

    See under Photo specifications.

    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.

  • Photo and fingerprints

    As a part of biometric data collection, your digital photograph will be taken with full face visible and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles or head covering, unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes.

    Your photograph must be taken according to the ICAO standard. See the Photomatrix Guidelines 2020 (originally meant for the photograph you had to bring) for examples of what is accepted and what is not.

    Fingerprints

    When you submit your application your fingerprints will be taken. These will remain valid for 59 months. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to have their fingerprints taken.

    Did you provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) within the last 59 months prior to your current application? Then you can choose to have someone else submit your application for you. You do not have to appear in person. This also applies if you had your fingerprints taken within the last 59 months for a visa application submitted through another Schengen member state.

    Please note that if, during the assessment of your application, it appears that your fingerprints are not in the system, you will have to come and submit them. Also, you can always be invited for an interview if your application gives reason to do so.

  • Processing Time

    In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Are you applying for a visa between April 2024 and October 2024? During this high season, your visa application may take longer to process.

    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.