Netherlands Schengen Visa Solutions
Your pathway to the windmills, canals, and vibrant culture of the Netherlands – seamless Schengen visa applications
Key Netherlands Schengen Visa Categories for Foreign Nationals
Understand the popular visa options for your trip to the Netherlands, a heart of the Schengen Area
Schengen Tourist Visa (C-Visa)
For foreign nationals, including Indian citizens, visiting the Netherlands for tourism, sightseeing, or leisure.
- Allows stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.
- Not for employment or remunerated activities.
- Requires detailed itinerary and proof of funds.
Schengen Visa (Visiting Relatives/Friends)
For foreign nationals visiting close family members or friends residing legally in the Netherlands.
- Requires invitation letter & guarantee statement from host.
- Allows stay up to 90 days in the Schengen Area.
- Proof of relationship is essential.
Schengen Business Visa (C-Visa)
For foreign professionals attending meetings, negotiations, market research, or short-term business liaisons in the Netherlands.
- Requires invitation letter from Dutch company.
- Allows stay up to 90 days in the Schengen Area.
- Cannot be used for actual employment.
Airport Transit Visa (ATV - Type A)
For foreign nationals transiting through a Dutch airport to a third country without intending to leave the airport's international transit area.
- Required for specific nationalities, including some Indian passport holders depending on itinerary.
- For airport transit only, not for entering the Schengen Area.
- Confirmed onward ticket essential.
Long-Stay Student Visa (D-Visa)
For foreign nationals enrolling in academic programs or long-term courses lasting more than 90 days in the Netherlands.
- Requires acceptance letter and often an entry visa (MVV).
- Valid for the duration of study.
- Allows part-time work with specific conditions.
Long-Stay Work Visa (D-Visa)
For foreign nationals having secured eligible employment or highly skilled migrant status in the Netherlands.
- Requires employer sponsorship and approval from IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service).
- Specific visa types for different professions.
- Long-term residency focus.
Our 6-Step Netherlands Schengen Visa Application Process
Visa Type & Eligibility Assessment
We help you identify the correct Schengen visa category for the Netherlands (or D-Visa) and confirm your eligibility based on your purpose and duration of visit.
Application Form & Itinerary Preparation
Expert assistance in accurately filling the online/manual Schengen visa application form and crafting a detailed daily itinerary.
Document Compilation & Review
Comprehensive guidance on gathering all mandatory supporting documents and rigorous review to ensure compliance with Netherlands Embassy/Consulate requirements.
Appointment Scheduling & Biometric Submission
We assist in booking your appointment at the VFS Global center, where you'll submit your documents and provide biometrics (fingerprints & photo).
Application Tracking & Follow-up
Our team continuously monitors your application status, provides timely updates, and responds to any requests for additional documents from the Consulate.
Visa Approval & Passport Collection
We facilitate the receipt of your passport with the visa and offer essential pre-travel guidelines for a smooth journey to the Netherlands.
General Netherlands Schengen Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Key documents and criteria for a successful Dutch Schengen visa application
Valid Passport
Minimum 3 months validity beyond departure from Schengen, issued in last 10 years, 2 blank pages. Old passports (if any).
Schengen Visa Application Form
Duly filled, signed, and dated. Printed from online portal (if applicable).
Recent Passport-sized Photos
Two recent (within 6 months) color photos, 3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background, matt finish, 80% face coverage.
Proof of Financial Means
Bank statements (last 6 months, stamped), ITRs (last 3 years), salary slips. Demonstrates sufficient funds for the trip (~€55/day).
Proof of Accommodation
Confirmed hotel bookings for the entire stay, or invitation letter (with host's details & proof of residence) if visiting friends/relatives.
Confirmed Flight Itinerary
Round-trip flight reservations/tickets. Do not purchase non-refundable tickets until visa approval.
Travel Medical Insurance
Minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies & repatriation, valid throughout Schengen Area.
Detailed Daily Itinerary
A comprehensive day-by-day plan of your activities and places you intend to visit in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries.
Valid Passport Holder
Applicant must hold a valid passport meeting Schengen requirements (3 months validity beyond departure, issued in last 10 years, 2 blank pages).
Clear Purpose of Visit
A well-defined and legitimate reason for visiting the Netherlands, supported by appropriate documentation (tourism, business, visit, etc.).
Sufficient Financial Resources
Demonstrated ability to cover all expenses (min ~€55 per day) for the duration of the stay in the Schengen Area and for the return journey.
Intent to Depart Schengen Area
Strong evidence of ties to your home country (employment, family, property) to assure immigration of your return.
Valid Travel Medical Insurance
Proof of valid travel medical insurance covering emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation, with minimum €30,000 coverage.
Good Character & No Criminal Record
Applicants should have a clear criminal history and not pose a risk to Schengen security.
*Visa fees are set by the European Union and are subject to change. Fees are paid in INR at the current exchange rate on the day of application at the VFS Global center. Our processing fees are separate and cover our expert services like form completion, document review, application assistance, and tracking. Conversion to INR is based on approximate current exchange rates (1 EUR ≈ 90 INR, as of May 2025) and are indicative only. Please confirm exact fees at the time of application.
Netherlands Schengen Visa FAQs
Common questions about applying for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands as an Indian citizen
Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit the Netherlands?
Yes, Indian citizens need a **Schengen Visa** to visit the Netherlands for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period). The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Area, and a valid Schengen visa allows travel to all Schengen countries. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Indian passport holders.
How long does it take to process a Netherlands Schengen visa?
The standard processing time for a Schengen visa is typically **15 calendar days** from the date of submission at VFS Global. However, this can extend up to **45 calendar days** in certain cases, especially during peak travel seasons or if the Consulate requests additional documents. It is highly recommended to apply at least **3-4 weeks (and up to 6 months)** before your intended travel date.
Is travel medical insurance mandatory for a Schengen visa?
Yes, travel medical insurance is **mandatory** for all Schengen visa applications. It must cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of **€30,000** and be valid throughout the entire Schengen Area for the duration of your stay.
What is the "main destination" rule for Schengen visa applications?
When applying for a Schengen visa, you must apply to the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the **longest duration** of your trip. If your stay duration is equal in multiple Schengen countries, you should apply to the country that you will enter first.
Do I need to provide biometrics for a Netherlands Schengen visa?
Yes, biometrics (fingerprints and a digital photograph) are mandatory for all Schengen visa applications. If you have provided biometrics for a previous Schengen visa within the last 59 months, you might be exempt from providing them again, but this is at the discretion of the consulate.
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