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.
Tourism Visa
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Overview
A short-stay Schengen visa with ‘Tourism’ as the purpose of travel is only for visiting the Schengen area as a tourist. This includes as part of a holiday, a cruise, city trip or other recreational purpose.
If you wish to combine such a visit with a business trip to the Netherlands, select ‘Business’ as your purpose of travel.
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.
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.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
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.
You are not required to submit a photo for short-stay Schengen visa applications. Your photo will be taken at the Visa Application Centre itself.
Your biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph) will be collected during your appointment. This will remain valid for 5 years. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to provide this data.
If you apply for a subsequent visa within these 5 years, you do not have to provide fingerprints again.
Please be aware, when applying for a visa at an external service provider, it cannot be checked at the desk whether your fingerprints have been stored in the systems in the past 5 years. If it turns out the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have your fingerprints, you will be asked to return to the External Service Provider for a second time to register your fingerprints.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
Business Visa
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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.
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 and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
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.
Your biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph) will be collected during your appointment. This will remain valid for 5 years. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to provide this data.
If you apply for a subsequent visa within these 5 years, you do not have to provide fingerprints again.
Please be aware, when applying for a visa at an external service provider, it cannot be checked at the desk whether your fingerprints have been stored in the systems in the past 5 years. If it turns out the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have your fingerprints, you will be asked to return to the External Service Provider for a second time to register your fingerprints.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
Visiting family/friends
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Overview
A short-stay Schengen visa with ‘Visiting family/friends’ as the purpose of travel is for visiting family and/or friends in the Netherlands.
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.
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 and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
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.
You are not required to submit a photo for short-stay Schengen visa applications. Your photo will be taken at the Visa Application Centre itself.
Your biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph) will be collected during your appointment. This will remain valid for 5 years. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to provide this data.
If you apply for a subsequent visa within these 5 years, you do not have to provide fingerprints again.
Please be aware, when applying for a visa at an external service provider, it cannot be checked at the desk whether your fingerprints have been stored in the systems in the past 5 years. If it turns out the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have your fingerprints, you will be asked to return to the External Service Provider for a second time to register your fingerprints.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
Airport transit
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Overview
An airport transit visa allows you to change planes at a Dutch airport for onward travel to a destination outside the Schengen area.
Whether you need an airport transit visa depends on your nationality and any exemptions for which you may be eligible. Fill in the online visa advisor to find out if you need a visa.
Please note: the visa does not grant entry to the Netherlands or to any other Schengen country. This means you cannot leave the airport. If you are transiting through the Netherlands to a destination within the Schengen area, you will need a short-stay Schengen visa.
For detailed information on airport transit visas, go to the website of the Dutch embassy or consulate.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
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.
You are not required to submit a photo for short-stay Schengen visa applications. Your photo will be taken at the Visa Application Centre itself.
Your biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph) will be collected during your appointment. This will remain valid for 5 years. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to provide this data.
If you apply for a subsequent visa within these 5 years, you do not have to provide fingerprints again.
Please be aware, when applying for a visa at an external service provider, it cannot be checked at the desk whether your fingerprints have been stored in the systems in the past 5 years. If it turns out the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have your fingerprints, you will be asked to return to the External Service Provider for a second time to register your fingerprints.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
Entry Visa
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Overview
A short-stay Schengen visa with ‘Return’ as the purpose of travel is only intended for people who wish to return to the Netherlands but cannot prove that they hold a Dutch residence permit. This might be because their residence permit has expired, been lost or been stolen while they have been abroad.
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.
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 and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
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.
You are not required to submit a photo for short-stay Schengen visa applications. Your photo will be taken at the Visa Application Centre itself.
Your biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph) will be collected during your appointment. This will remain valid for 5 years. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to provide this data.
If you apply for a subsequent visa within these 5 years, you do not have to provide fingerprints again.
Please be aware, when applying for a visa at an external service provider, it cannot be checked at the desk whether your fingerprints have been stored in the systems in the past 5 years. If it turns out the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have your fingerprints, you will be asked to return to the External Service Provider for a second time to register your fingerprints.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
Study/research
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Overview
A short-stay Schengen visa with Study/research as the purpose of travel is for visiting the Netherlands to take part in educational or research activities. This includes attending training courses or short-term research programs.
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.
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 and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
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.
Your biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph) will be collected during your appointment. This will remain valid for 5 years. Some applicants, such as children under the age of 12, do not need to provide this data.
If you apply for a subsequent visa within these 5 years, you do not have to provide fingerprints again.
Please be aware, when applying for a visa at an external service provider, it cannot be checked at the desk whether your fingerprints have been stored in the systems in the past 5 years. If it turns out the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not have your fingerprints, you will be asked to return to the External Service Provider for a second time to register your fingerprints.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
Orange Carpet Programme
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Overview
Applications for business visa of employees of companies that are registered with the Dutch consulates or embassy in the United States as being eligible for the Orange Carpet Facility Program can be submitted at the VFS Visa Application Center in the United States.
For more information about registering a business for Orange Carpet eligibility, please click here.
Orange Carpet benefits
The benefits of the Orange Carpet Programme vary from country to country. Here are some examples of possible benefits:
- You will not need to show as many documents to get a visa.
- Your visa will be ready for collection sooner.
- You will not have to make an appointment to submit an application.
Walk-in appointments
Orange Carpet Clients can submit their applications without making an appointment at the operational days of the visa application centers:
- Between 09:00 and 16:00 in San Francisco
- Between 09:00 and 16:00 in Los Angeles
- Between 09:00 and 16:00 in Chicago
- Between 09:00 and 16:00 in Washington
- Between 09:00 and 16:00 in New York
- Between 09:00 and 16:00 in Houston
- Between 09:00 and 16:00 in Miami
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees, VFS Global Charges and a COVID-19 fee, to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
- Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months after your return) and a copy of the data page and all passport pages with stamps.
- Completed and signed Schengen visa applications form.
- Original, and copy, of valid US alien registration card (residence permit, aka: green card) or valid US resident visa and copy. The US residence permit or visa should be valid for at least 3 months beyond the (intended) departure from Schengen.
- An OCP cover letter signed by the applicant’s company contact person for the OCP guaranteeing the company to cover all expenses involved as well as the applicant being adequately (medically) insured during his or her visit. If someone is travelling with the applicant, all details should be mentioned and guaranteed in this letter as well.
In case of a spouse and/or children that are accompanying the employee on his/her business trip and are not mentioned in the OCP letter the following documents of the spouse/children have to be attached to the applications:
- Copy of overseas medical insurance policy, including medical emergency evacuation cover (equivalent to € 30,000), corresponding with the (desired) period of stay.
- Copy of airline reservation and hotel reservation and health insurance if the family member are not included in the orange carpet letter that they are fully covered.
For children under 18 both parents must sign on both pages of the visa application form and submit signed copies of their passport ID cards. All applicants have to come in person (including babies and children).
Consent from both parents to travel abroad is mandatory.
If the applicant is under custody of only one parent a certificate showing 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.
-
Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. It can take up to 45 days to decide on your visa application.
Some Schengen member states want to exchange information on visa applicants. This check (known as ‘consultation’) is mandatory for certain nationalities.
You can track the status of your application here.
After applying for your visa, you will not be able to take home your passport while your visa application is being processed.
Visa after approved appeal
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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 09:00 to 16:00 hrs.
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Visa Fees
If your objection has been approved after an appeal, you do not have to pay the official consular visa fee again.
- All payments will be collected in USD only.
- Applicant shall be levied a VFS service charge of USD $27.93 per application over and above visa fees.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
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Documents Required
- A valid travel document
- The no-objection letter (and a copy) stating that your objection has been successful
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Any documents mentioned in the no-objection letter (if applicable). For example, a valid:
- hotel
- flight reservation
- proof of insurance
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Photo specifications and fingerprints
NOT APPLICABLE
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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.
LDR (Long Distance Relationship)
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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 childrenIf 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) For more information, see the page Travelling with children
-
Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
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 specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
Long Stay Visa (MVV)
Overview
If you want to stay in the Netherlands for longer than 90 days, you may need an authorisation for temporary stay (MVV). An MVV is also called a long-stay visa. A long-stay visa will allow you to travel to the Netherlands to collect your residence permit.
You can apply to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) or to the Dutch embassy or consulate in your region for a long-stay visa (check the rules for your region).
For more information on applying for a long-stay visa (MVV) , go to the website of the Dutch embassy or consulate. On the website you’ll also find more information on applying for a residence permit, and the IND’s contact details.
Family member of EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
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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.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
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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:
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Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
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Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. You should apply no later than 15 working days before your trip.
In most cases, you will be informed within 15 calendar days whether your application has been successful. Sometimes it can take up to 30 days if more time is needed, and up to 60 days in exceptional cases, for example if extra documents are required. 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.
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:
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.
Make a selection:
- Short-stay Caribbean visa (90 days or less)
- Long-stay Caribbean visa
- Caribbean Carpet Programme (for frequent visitors to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom)
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’re eligible for the Caribbean Carpet Programme on the website of the Dutch embassy or consulate. The website also gives details of how to apply for the Caribbean Carpet Programme. If your application for the Caribbean Carpet Programme is successful, you can also apply for your visas via the Visa Application Centre.
Applying for a visa through the Caribbean Carpet Programme
If your application for the Caribbean Carpet Programme is 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.
Short-stay Caribbean visa
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Overview
If you want to stay in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom for 90 days or less, you may need a short-stay visa. This depends on your nationality. You may also need a short-stay visa if you are transiting through the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom.
What is a short-stay Caribbean visa?
- A short-stay Caribbean visa lets you travel throughout the Dutch Caribbean, i.e. Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St Eustatius and St Maarten.
- A standard short-term Caribbean visa is issued for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is a multiple-entry visa.
- A short-stay Caribbean visa does not permit you to undertake paid work. If you would like to work, you must have a work permit.
- A short-term Caribbean visa is not valid for travel to the European part of the Netherlands or to any other Schengen area country.
Check here for nationalities which do not require a visa.
Making an airport transit through the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
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Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
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.
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Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
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Processing Time
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before you intend to travel. In most cases, you'll 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.
Long-stay Caribbean visa
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Overview
If you wish to stay in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom for longer than 90 days, in most cases you will need a residence permit. If you have applied for one already, please be aware that you may require a visa to collect your residence permit in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St Eustatius or St Maarten.
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.
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Visa Fees
Please note that on top of the official visa fees and VFS Global Charges to be paid by the applicant.
- For the official visa fees charged by the Dutch government click here.
- VFS service charges
Apart from the visa fee, a VFS service charge in USD $27.93 inclusive of all applicable taxes per application will be levied for applicants applying at the visa application center.
- All fees are to be paid via credit/ debit card / online in USD whereas Visa Fee Payment can only be paid via credit/debit card at VAC. You can make payment via demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications in favor of VFS Services USA Inc.). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.
- For the VFS Global additional services for visa applicants please click here.
- All fees are non-refundable.
-
Documents Required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here.
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 (checklist)
Get all the documents required for your application. Below you can find out which documents you need to provide and which requirements they must meet.
For every document submitted, you must provide the original (to show at the counter) and a photocopy (to be attached to the visa file). The documents must have been drawn up in (or translated into) Dutch, English, French or Spanish.
Passport
A passport or other travel document containing at least two blank pages. It should be valid for at least 3 months after you leave the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom.
Documents for children under 18
If you are applying for a visa for a child under 18, you must provide the child’s birth certificate and an identity document for each parent.
Proof of legal residence
You must be able to prove that you are legally resident in the country you are applying from. To do this, you can show your passport, residence permit or a visa.
Photo
You must submit a photo that meets Dutch requirements.
Photocopy of letter from immigration service
Has your residence permit application been approved by the local immigration service? If so, you must submit a photocopy of the letter your sponsor received.
- Aruba: temporary admission document (VTA)
- St Maarten: landing permit
- Curaçao: you do not need to provide a copy of the letter
- Bonaire, St Eustatius, Saba: authorisation for temporary stay (MVV-BES)
You should also bring any additional documents listed in the letter.
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Photo specifications and fingerprints
As a part of your visa application, your digital photograph will be taken and you will need to provide your fingerprints
Read more about the biometric data collection when you attend the Visa application centre.
-
Processing Time
In most cases, you'll 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.