Get Your Netherlands Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism, business, and family visits — discover the heart of Europe
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Netherlands Visa
Simple 4-step process — most Schengen visas processed within 15 calendar days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined Schengen visa form with your travel details, accommodation plans, and personal information. Our intelligent system validates each field in real-time, ensuring your application meets all requirements set by the Royal Netherlands Embassy and the Schengen visa code.
2
Upload required documents
Submit your passport scan, recent biometric photograph meeting Schengen specifications, travel insurance proof, financial documentation, and accommodation details. Our document specialists review every submission to ensure compliance with Dutch visa requirements before processing.
3
We guide your embassy appointment
Schengen visas require an in-person appointment at the Dutch embassy or VFS Global center. We prepare your complete application package, schedule your appointment, and provide detailed guidance on what to expect during your interview with consular officials.
4
Receive your Netherlands visa
After your appointment and processing, your Schengen visa sticker is placed in your passport. Collect your passport and welcome to the Netherlands — Welkom! Explore the land of windmills, cheese markets, and world-famous museums.
Netherlands Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Schengen Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Short-stay visa for tourism, sightseeing, and cultural visits
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For meetings, conferences, and commercial activities
Family Visit Visa
Up to 90 days
Visit relatives and friends residing in the Netherlands
Airport Transit Visa
Transit only
For travelers transiting through Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond planned departure with 2 blank pages
- Biometric photo: 35x45mm, white background, recent within 6 months
- Travel insurance covering minimum 30,000 EUR medical expenses
- Confirmed hotel reservations or host invitation letter
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, employment letter)
- Round-trip flight reservation or detailed travel itinerary
Schengen Visa Overview
The Netherlands is a member of the Schengen Area, a zone of 27 European countries that have abolished passport control at their mutual borders. A Netherlands Schengen visa allows you to travel freely throughout all Schengen member states, making it an ideal gateway to explore Europe.
The short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) permits stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This 90/180 rule is strictly enforced — immigration officials at Schiphol Airport and other entry points calculate your remaining days based on stamps from all Schengen countries. Planning to visit multiple European destinations? Your visa application should be submitted to the country where you'll spend the most time, or if equal, the country of first entry.
Nationals from many countries including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan enjoy visa-free access to the Netherlands and the entire Schengen Area for tourism and business stays up to 90 days. However, starting in 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to register through the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before arrival.
Business & Family Visas
Business Visa Requirements
The Netherlands, home to major international companies and the European headquarters of many global corporations, welcomes business travelers for meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and commercial negotiations. Business visa applicants must provide an invitation letter from their Dutch business partner or the event organizer, company registration documents, and proof of the business relationship. Self-employed individuals should include business registration certificates and recent financial statements.
Family Visit Visa
Visiting family or friends in the Netherlands requires specific documentation depending on your host's status. Dutch citizens and legal residents can provide a sponsor declaration (garantverklaring) accepting financial responsibility for your stay, along with proof of their residence status and accommodation details. The sponsor may need to demonstrate sufficient income to support your visit. For visits to immediate family members with Dutch nationality, the application process may be streamlined.
Both visa types are processed as standard Schengen short-stay visas with the same 90-day maximum validity, but require additional supporting documents specific to your travel purpose.
Application Requirements & Fees
Documentation Checklist
A complete Netherlands visa application includes:
• Valid passport: Issued within the last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with minimum 2 blank pages
• Completed application form: Signed and dated Schengen visa application
• Biometric photograph: 35x45mm, white background, taken within last 6 months, face covering 70-80% of the frame
• Travel medical insurance: Minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR for emergency medical care and repatriation, valid throughout the Schengen Area
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel confirmations, rental agreements, or signed invitation/sponsor declaration from your host
• Travel itinerary: Round-trip flight reservations (do not purchase final tickets until visa approved)
• Financial evidence: Recent bank statements (3-6 months), employment letter with salary details, or sponsor's financial documentation
Visa Fees
The standard Schengen visa fee is 80 EUR for adults and 40 EUR for children aged 6-12. Children under 6 are exempt from visa fees. Additional service fees apply when applying through VFS Global or other visa application centers.
Processing & Travel Tips
Processing Timeline
Standard Schengen visa processing takes 15 calendar days from your appointment date. During peak travel seasons (summer months, Easter, Christmas) and for certain nationalities, processing may extend to 30-45 days. We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date, but no earlier than 6 months in advance. First-time Schengen applicants must provide biometric data (fingerprints) at their appointment, stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years.
Travel Tips for the Netherlands
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring (April-May) brings the spectacular tulip season when Keukenhof Gardens displays millions of blooms. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather ideal for cycling and outdoor festivals, though popular sites are crowded. Autumn and winter are perfect for museum visits and experiencing Dutch traditions like Sinterklaas (December 5th).
The Netherlands has excellent public transportation — the OV-chipkaart works on all trains, trams, buses, and metros nationwide. Cycling is the Dutch way of life, and bike rentals are available everywhere. English is widely spoken, making navigation easy for international visitors. Don't miss the chance to explore beyond Amsterdam — cities like Utrecht, The Hague, Delft, and Maastricht offer authentic Dutch experiences with fewer tourists.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"The Schengen visa process seemed overwhelming but DoVisa made it manageable. They reviewed all my documents before the embassy appointment and I got approved!"
"Needed a business visa to attend a conference in Rotterdam. DoVisa helped prepare my invitation letter requirements and the entire process was smooth."
"Good service overall. The embassy appointment took 3 weeks to schedule but DoVisa kept me informed throughout. Visa approved in 12 days after interview."
"First time applying for Schengen visa. DoVisa's checklist was incredibly helpful and their support team answered all my questions quickly. Now exploring Amsterdam!"
"Applied for family visit visa to see my sister in Utrecht. The sponsor declaration guidance was exactly what we needed. Approved without issues."
"Processing took longer than expected due to high demand, but the visa came through. DoVisa's document preparation was thorough and professional."
"Third time using DoVisa for Schengen visas. They know the Dutch requirements inside out. Always a reliable service for my European business trips."
"The travel insurance requirement was confusing but DoVisa explained exactly what coverage I needed. Everything was approved smoothly. Highly recommend!"
"Helpful service for navigating the Schengen visa maze. The appointment booking could be faster but overall satisfied with the experience."
"DoVisa caught errors in my application that would have caused delays. Their attention to detail saved me time and stress. Visiting tulip fields next month!"
"Applied for multiple-entry Schengen through Netherlands as main destination. DoVisa guided me perfectly. Now planning trips to Belgium and Germany too!"
"Good communication and support. The financial documentation requirements were strict but DoVisa helped me prepare everything properly. Visa granted."
"Excellent experience from start to finish. The step-by-step guidance for the embassy interview was reassuring. Netherlands here I come!"
Netherlands Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for the Netherlands?
The Netherlands offers several visa categories depending on your travel purpose. Short-stay Schengen visas (Type C) allow stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. Long-stay visas (MVV) are required for stays exceeding 90 days and purposes such as study, work, or family reunification. Airport transit visas (Type A) are needed by certain nationalities transiting through Schiphol Airport without entering the Schengen Area. The most common type for travelers is the short-stay Schengen tourist or business visa, which also permits travel throughout all 27 Schengen member states.
What is a Schengen visa and how does it work?
A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to travel freely within the 27 European countries that comprise the Schengen Area, including the Netherlands, Germany, France, Belgium, Spain, Italy, and others. The visa follows the 90/180 rule: you can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day rolling period across all Schengen countries combined. When applying, you should submit your application to the country where you'll spend the most time, or if visiting multiple countries equally, the country of first entry. A Netherlands-issued Schengen visa is just as valid in Paris or Barcelona as it is in Amsterdam.
Do I need a visa to visit the Netherlands?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of the EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can enter freely with just their national ID card or passport. Nationals from countries including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and about 60 other countries can visit visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business. Starting in 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before arrival. Citizens of most other countries require a Schengen visa. Check the official Dutch government website or contact DoVisa to confirm your specific nationality requirements.
What documents are required for a Netherlands visa application?
A complete application requires: Valid passport (issued within 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond planned departure, 2 blank pages); Completed Schengen application form signed and dated; Biometric photograph (35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months); Travel medical insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); Travel itinerary (flight reservations); Financial evidence (bank statements showing sufficient funds, typically 55-95 EUR per day); Employment proof (letter from employer or business registration); and Purpose-specific documents (business invitation, conference registration, family sponsor declaration as applicable).
How long can I stay in the Netherlands with a Schengen visa?
A standard Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is calculated on a rolling basis — immigration officers count backward 180 days from your entry date to verify how many days you've already spent in the Schengen Area. The 90 days apply to your combined time in ALL Schengen countries, not just the Netherlands. For example, if you spent 30 days in France last month, you only have 60 days remaining for the Netherlands. Some visas may be issued with shorter validity based on your itinerary. Multiple-entry visas allow you to exit and re-enter, but the 90/180 rule still applies.
Can I extend my Schengen visa while in the Netherlands?
Schengen visa extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances such as force majeure (natural disasters, serious illness, or other emergencies preventing travel), humanitarian reasons, or serious personal situations. Extensions are NOT granted for tourism or because you want to stay longer. If you need an extension, apply at the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) before your current visa expires. You'll need to provide evidence of the exceptional circumstances. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days for legitimate purposes like study or work, you must apply for a long-stay visa (MVV) from your home country before traveling.
Can I work in the Netherlands with a tourist visa?
No, Schengen tourist and business visas do not permit employment in the Netherlands. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family. Business visas allow attending meetings, conferences, and negotiations, but not working for a Dutch employer or receiving Dutch salary. To work legally, you need either a work permit (TWV) combined with a residence permit, or for highly skilled migrants, the kennismigrant visa. Some activities like unpaid internships or volunteer work may have different requirements. Working without proper authorization can result in fines, deportation, and future visa bans for both you and your employer.
Do I need to print my visa or is a digital copy sufficient?
For Netherlands and Schengen visas, the visa is a physical sticker placed directly in your passport by the embassy or consulate — it is not an electronic document you can print yourself. After your visa appointment and approval, your passport is returned to you (or collected from the visa application center) with the visa sticker inside. You must travel with this physical passport containing the visa sticker. At immigration, officers will check both the sticker and potentially scan your biometric data. Always verify the visa details (dates, number of entries, Schengen states covered) immediately upon receiving your passport back.
How long does Netherlands visa processing take?
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days from your appointment date. However, processing can take up to 30-45 days during peak seasons (summer, major holidays) or if additional documentation is required. For certain nationalities, extended security checks may apply. We recommend applying 4-6 weeks before travel but no earlier than 6 months in advance. First-time Schengen applicants must attend an appointment in person for biometric data collection. The timeline includes: scheduling your appointment (can take 1-3 weeks depending on embassy availability), attending the appointment, and processing. DoVisa helps streamline document preparation to avoid delays.
What if my Netherlands visa application is rejected?
If rejected, you'll receive a written decision explaining the reasons. Common rejection causes include: insufficient proof of funds, incomplete travel insurance, doubts about return intention, missing documents, or previous immigration violations. You have the right to appeal the decision — typically within 4 weeks of rejection. Appeals are submitted to the embassy and reviewed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Alternatively, you can submit a new application addressing the issues that caused rejection. DoVisa's pre-submission document review significantly reduces rejection risk by catching issues before they reach the embassy. If rejected due to our error, we provide assistance with reapplication at no additional cost.
What is the best time to visit the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has distinct seasons each offering unique experiences. Spring (April-May) is peak tulip season — Keukenhof Gardens opens late March through mid-May with over 7 million bulbs in bloom. Weather is mild (10-17 degrees C) but changeable. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather (17-25 degrees C), outdoor festivals, and long days perfect for cycling and canal cruises, though tourist sites are crowded. Autumn (September-November) offers pleasant temperatures, fall foliage, and fewer crowds. Winter (December-February) features Christmas markets, ice skating, and cozy cafe culture. The Dutch celebration of Sinterklaas (December 5th) and King's Day (April 27th) are cultural highlights worth planning around.
What travel insurance do I need for a Netherlands visa?
Schengen visa requirements mandate travel medical insurance with: minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR (or equivalent); coverage for emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, and emergency repatriation (including repatriation of remains); validity throughout your entire stay in all Schengen countries; and no excess/deductible for emergency treatment. The policy must be from a recognized insurance provider. Many standard travel insurance policies meet these requirements, but verify the specific coverage amounts. Present the insurance certificate with your visa application — it should clearly show the coverage amount, validity dates, and geographic scope. DoVisa can recommend suitable insurance providers if needed.
Can I visit other European countries with my Netherlands visa?
Yes, a Netherlands-issued Schengen visa allows you to travel throughout all 27 Schengen member states: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. However, non-Schengen EU countries like Ireland require separate visas. The UK is no longer in the EU or Schengen and requires its own visa for most nationalities. Your total stay across all Schengen countries combined cannot exceed 90 days within 180 days. Plan multi-country trips carefully to avoid overstaying.
Do I need an appointment for my Netherlands visa application?
Yes, in-person appointments are required for Schengen visa applications. Depending on your location, you'll apply at either the Royal Netherlands Embassy/Consulate or a VFS Global visa application center. First-time Schengen applicants must provide biometric data (10 fingerprint scans and a digital photograph) which is stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years. Appointments can be booked online through the embassy website or VFS Global. During peak seasons, appointment availability may be limited — book early. DoVisa assists with scheduling and prepares you with a complete document checklist for your appointment.
What are the main entry points into the Netherlands?
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the primary international gateway and one of Europe's busiest hubs, handling over 70 million passengers annually. Direct flights connect to virtually every major world city. Other airports include Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) and Eindhoven Airport (EIN) for European connections. By train, high-speed Thalys connects Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam in under 3 hours, while Eurostar runs directly from London to Amsterdam (4 hours). ICE trains connect to Germany. By car, excellent highways link to Belgium and Germany. Ferries operate from the UK (Harwich to Hook of Holland, Newcastle to IJmuiden).
How much money do I need to show for a Netherlands visa?
Dutch authorities recommend demonstrating access to approximately 55-95 EUR per day depending on your accommodation arrangements. For a 10-day trip, showing 550-950 EUR available is reasonable. Acceptable proof includes: recent bank statements (3-6 months) showing regular income and sufficient balance; employment letter confirming salary and approved leave; sponsor letter if someone in the Netherlands is covering expenses (with their financial evidence); or proof of prepaid expenses (hotel confirmations, tour bookings). The embassy assesses whether you can support yourself and return home — stable employment and financial history help demonstrate ties to your home country.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help 24/7Ready to Explore the Netherlands?
From Amsterdam's canals to tulip fields and historic windmills — Dutch adventures await
Apply NowOr apply via our mobile app
