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.
SHORT TERM VISA
Schengen visa must be obtained from the Embassy/Consulate of the country where the main purpose of travel lies. Therefore, please check your travel plans before submitting your application. In case of travel to multiple Schengen countries, please make your application to the one where you will be staying for the maximum number of days. If the duration of stay is the same in more than one Schengen country during the first trip, you must submit your visa application at the Embassy/Consulate of your first point of entry.
Please book appointments well in advance depending on your intended date of travel to avoid any inconvenience. Applications cannot be submitted earlier than six (6) months before the travel date. Please refer to the processing time specific to this Mission.
Orange Carpet
The Orange Carpet Visa Facility facilitates the issuance of visas with a Business purpose.
Applications for Business Visa of employees of companies that are registered with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Abu Dhabi and with the Consulate-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Dubai, as Orange Carpet Program beneficiaries, are eligible for the Orange Carpet facility. Click here to know the average processing time.
Advantages of the Orange Carpet Visa Facility:
- The Orange Carpet applicant is allowed to submit less supporting documents than regular applicants: no need to submit the proof of itinerary, hotel reservations, insurance or financial means;
- The Orange Carpet applicant could be facilitated with a visa with longer validity (maximum 5 years/ multiple entries).
- The Orange Carpet applicant is allowed to submit the application as a walk-in between 9am to 12pm from Monday to Friday (except public holidays). However, they must have an online appointment to submit the application between 12pm to 3pm.
Documents required:
- Completed and signed Schengen application form;
- Passport or official travel document and a copy of the data page (recognized by the Schengen States, issued within the previous ten years and with a validity of at least 3 months). The passport must be signed by the holder and contain at least two empty pages, specifically assigned to visa;
- One passport-sized photo (not older than 6 months, 35-40mm in width, be taken with a light blue or grey background, full face, ears visible, and no sunglasses (Schengen photo requirements);
- If applicable a copy of the applicant’s residence permit or other proof of legal status in country of applicant;
- Visa fees and VFS service fees.
The following additional Orange Carpet documents have to be submitted at the VFS counter:
- An Orange Carpet cover letter signed by the applicant’s company contact person for the Orange Carpet Program who guarantees that the company will cover all expenses involved and that the applicant is adequately (medically) insured during the visit;
- An official letter from the company (with logo) in the Netherlands indicating the purpose and the period of the visit; the purpose should always be business and not tourism;
- If a spouse and/or children are accompanying the employee on the business trip, all details should be mentioned in the cover letter as well.
In case a spouse and/or children are accompanying the employee on the business trip, the spouse and/or children need to submit a fully documented visa application, that is in accordance with the purpose of their visit (tourism, family visit etc.) and which should include:
- Copy of overseas medical insurance policy, including medical emergency evacuation cover (equivalent to 30,000 Euros), corresponding with the (desired) period of the visit;
- Copy of airline reservation, hotel reservation and health insurance.
- Proof of sufficient funds for stay in Schengen area (meaning: 3 months of bank statements)
Please note that additional documentation is required for applicants under the age of 18:
- For children under 18 both parents must sign for consent to travel abroad. The parents sign on both pages of the visa application form and submit signed copies of their passports or ID cards.
- Applications have to made in person by the minor (including babies)
- If the applicant is under custody of one parent only, a certificate proving this is required. The documentation needs to be in original and issued by the legal authorities. The documentation also needs to be supported by a copy of the custodian's signed id-card or passport
- Copy of the cover of front passport of the applicant
- Copy of previous Schengen visa of the applicant
Disclaimer: The privileges under the OCP are limited by the conditions of the application submitted. The duration of the visa may be limited by the duration of the passport. No rights can be derived from the OCP facility. Misuse of OCP facility can lead to unconditional termination of use of the OCP facility.
TOURIST VISA
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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.
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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
Please see the checklist for a tourist 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 you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
BUSINESS VISA
-
Overview
A short-stay Schengen visa with ‘Business’ as the purpose of travel is for visiting the Netherlands to take part in commercial activities. This includes attending meetings, conferences or training courses.
Such visas can only be issued to applicants 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.
A short-stay Schengen 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.
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.
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.
Note for airplane crew members:
If you are an airplane pilot or cabin crew member your passport will not have to remain with VFS anymore during the processing of your visa application.
Travelling on a visa:
Even if you have a visa you may still be subject to checks during your trip. You must at all times meet the requirements for travelling without a visa. If you do not meet these requirements you may be refused entry to a Schengen country or the Schengen area.
-
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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
Visiting Family And Friends Visa
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Overview
Applicants traveling to the Netherlands to visit family/ friends (including girlfriend/boyfriend), 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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
AIRPORT TRANSIT VISA
-
Overview
https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/travel-and-residence/visas-for-the-netherlands/airport-transit-visa
An airport transit visa (type A) is for transiting through the international transit areas of airports in the Schengen Area, but not for entering the territory of a Schengen state.
With an airport transit visa, you can change flights in the Netherlands, but you cannot leave the airport.
You need an airport transit visa if your nationality appears on the list of countries whose nationals require a visa
Holders of a travel document for Palestinian stateless/refugees which has been issued by Egypt, Lebanon or Syria need an airport transit visa ((A 1951 Convention travel document/ A 1954 Convention travel document).
Holders of a travel document issued by the Palestinian Authority (PA) do not require an airport transit visa.
Attention: Kindly note that should your transit route through Schengen consist of more than two stops you need a Schengen visa (type C visa), even if you do not leave the airport. Example: Flight from Dubai – Paris -Frankfurt – Chicago.
Exemptions
If your nationality appears on this list, check whether you have an exemption. An airport transit visa is also not required if you:
- have a visa or residence permit for a country in the Schengen Area, the EU or the EEA
- have a visa for Canada, Japan or the United States
- have a residence permit guaranteeing unlimited return for Andorra, San Marino, Canada, Japan and the United States
- are a family member of a citizen of the EU, EEA or Switzerland
- hold a diplomatic passport
- hold a service or official passport. Please note: this only applies to nationals of certain countries on the list
- are on-duty aircrew and a national of a country that is a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
Entry Visa
-
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.
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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
Please see the checklist for a entry 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.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Important:
- 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.
Additional Mandatory form required :
Travel History Form: To be duly filled and enclosed with the application Authorization Form : To be filled if the submission done by Travel Agent or Representative.
Dear Applicants,
Please be informed that the applicants might be contacted directly by the Embassy for information regarding additional documents or interview request through e-mail or phone. Therefore, please ensure that details are written in correct and readable format. It is also advisable to write the e-mail address in BLOCK LETTERS.
We humbly request you to adhere to this instruction to avoid delay in the visa processing.
Family Members Of EU/EEA 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.
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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form Important:
- 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.
Official Visit
-
Overview
If Applicant purpose of Journey is for intergovernmental meetings, consultations, negotiations or events etc.
Important Information for Diplomatic and Official passport holders.
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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
Medical Treatment
-
Overview
This category of visa when applicant intends to travel for medical treatment for a maximum of 90 days
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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
Study or training purposes
-
Overview
This visa is solely for journeys undertaken for the purpose of study or other types of training.
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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 345 Children between 6-12 years AED 170 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 305 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 150 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 130 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 255 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 99.67 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 99.67 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
- Complete the online Schengen visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
-
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.
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.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
VISA AFTER APPROVED APPEAL
-
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 between 9:00 to 15:00 hrs from Monday to Friday.
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 AED cash or by Credit Card.
- Applicant shall be levied a VFS service charge of AED 99.67 per application over and above visa fees.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
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 CentreAfter applying for your visa, your passport will remain at the Consulate General of Netherlands, Dubai while your visa application is being processed.
-
Download Forms
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
LDR (Long Distance Relationship)
-
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.
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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 355 Children between 6-12 years & CARIBBEAN CHILD BETWEEN 6-12 AED 175 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 315 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 155 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 135 Cape Verde AED 265 Cape Verde Children between 12-17 years AED 130 Service Fees AED 102.56 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 102.56 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents 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 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 working days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application. Are you applying for a visa between April 2024 and October 2024? During this high season, your visa application may take longer to process.
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
Please click here to fill up the online form
Minors Consent Form
Important:
- 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.
LONG STAY VISA (MVV)
In case you intend to stay in the Netherlands for a continuous period of longer than 90 days you will need a temporary residence permit (MVV), informally known as a ‘long-stay visa’. You can apply with the Netherlands Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) for a residence permit. It is important that you apply at least 3 (three) months before your intended stay in the Netherlands.
Your sponsor can also start the procedure for your MVV application in the Netherlands. If you choose to start your application in the Netherlands you are advised to wait for the decision. Your sponsor will be also informed by the Netherlands Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) about the decision on your application.
When you have received a positive decision on your application, you can make an appointment at the embassy to collect the long-stay visa. 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 UAE residents.
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:
Short-stay Caribbean visa (90 days or less)
-
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 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 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:
CHARGE TYPE New Fees Normal Visa Fee AED 355 Children between 6-12 years AED 175 Child below 6 year AED 0 Caribbean Visa fee (90 days or less) AED 315 Caribbean child between 6-12 years AED 155 Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus AED 135 Armenia, Azerbaijan & Belarus (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Cape Verde AED 265 Cape Verde child between 12-17 years AED 130 Cape Verde (aged 0-11 years) AED 0 Service Fees AED 102.56 Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in AED 102.56 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(AED) or by credit card.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
-
Documents Required
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. The checklist explains 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.
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 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. 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.
-
Download Forms
Netherlands Caribbean visa application form
Important:
- It is mandatory to use this form to apply for a Caribbean Visa.
- Complete the online Caribbean visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is mandatory to use this form to apply for a Caribbean Visa.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
Long-stay Caribbean Visa
-
Overview
If you wish to take up residency in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom or stay 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 UAE. 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 fee of AED 99.67 inclusive of VAT per application
- Visa fee payment can only be made in cash and credit card
- All fees are non-refundable.
- Please be informed that the fees charged by the Consulate General or VFS Global are based on the current exchange rate in local currency and may be subject to change without prior notification
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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
Please 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.
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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
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.
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.
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Download Forms
Netherlands Caribbean visa application form
Important:
- It is mandatory to use this form to apply for a Caribbean Visa.
- Complete the online Caribbean visa application form, print it out and take it to your appointment. It is mandatory to use this form to apply for a Caribbean Visa.
- The portal will guide you through the application questions and will make sure you do not forget to enter any necessary values.
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.