Step-by-step plan: Applying for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands
Applying for a Schengen visa at a Dutch embassy, consulate or application centre consists of 7 steps. Find out what these steps are, what you need and how much time it may take. Read through this general information carefully before you start your application.
Preparing (2-4 weeks)
Whether you need a Schengen visa depends, among other things, on your nationality and travel plans. Visit the page Do I need a visa for the Netherlands?, answer several questions and check whether you need a Schengen visa.
How much time does this take?
This takes a maximum of 15 minutes.
When can I continue?
If you have answered the questions, and you need a Schengen visa, you can continue with Step 2.
To apply for a Schengen visa, you fill in an online application form. This includes your personal details, travel schedule and purpose of travel. Print this form and sign it.
What do I need?
You need an account for the online portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. You also need your passport, your travel dates and information about your stay in the Netherlands.
How much time does this take?
This takes about 30 minutes.
When can I continue?
Once you have filled in, printed and signed the application form, you go on to Step 3.
For a Schengen visa application you need several documents. Which documents these are depend on your purpose of travel.
What do I need?
You need a checklist that tells you which documents you need for your application. The checklists vary by purpose of travel. Choose the checklist that applies to you.
How much time does this take?
Gathering documents can take at least a week. This depends on how quickly the authorities issue or legalise documents. It can also take longer to arrange certain documents, for example proof of sponsorship, business information or financial documents.
When can I continue?
While you wait for your documents to be prepared for the application, you can already start with Step 4.
Applying (1-8 weeks)
You usually apply for the Schengen visa in the country where you live. You make an appointment at a visa application centre of VFS Global or TLScontact, or at a Dutch embassy or consulate-general.
What do I need?
For VFS Global or TLScontact you need an account to make an appointment. This is not necessary for an application at the embassy or consulate-general.
Avoid unnecessary costs and book your appointment yourself. Do not make an appointment through an intermediary.
How much time does this take?
It can take some time before you can get an appointment. This varies by season and by location. Take into account waiting times of 1 week to more than 1 month.
When can I continue?
Once you have made an appointment, continue to Step 5.
During your appointment you submit the documents from the checklist, together with the checklist itself and your passport. You also provide your fingerprints and answer questions about your trip. Please note that your passport will be kept safely at the embassy during the application process.
You also pay the Schengen visa fee (normally € 90) and, if applicable, any service costs charged by VFS Global or TLScontact. These service costs are listed on their website.
What do I need?
You need a completed, printed and signed visa application form, and all the other documents from the checklist.
How much time does this take?
The appointment takes a maximum of 1 hour.
When can I continue?
After the appointment, you go home and wait for the decision (Step 6).
Waiting and receiving decision (2-6 weeks)
After your application you wait for the decision. You can track the status of your application online.
What do I need?
You need a reference number to track the status of your application online. You receive this number during your appointment.
How much time does this take?
The average processing time for a Schengen visa is 18 to 21 calendar days. In some situations, your application may take up to 45 calendar days.
When can I continue?
You will receive an email once your application has been processed. Then you can continue with Step 7.
You will receive an email once your application has been processed. You then collect your passport or have it sent to you. If your application is approved, the Schengen visa will be in your passport. If it is refused, you will receive a letter explaining why.
When can I continue?
If you have a Schengen visa in your passport, you can travel to the Netherlands. If you received a letter of refusal, you can object or submit a new visa application.
Start your application
If you have read through all the steps, you are ready to start your application.
Find out how to apply for a Schengen visa in your country
Contact
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.