Netherlands Visas

Written by Mike Arnold

Mike Arnold

Mike is a freelance writer with eight years of experience and a love for travel, all things business, tabletop games and green tea.

Last update: September 14, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

The Netherlands, famous for its picturesque canals, renowned European culture, welcoming atmosphere, and class capital city, is a desirable destination for many seeking a new home. If you're considering a move to the Netherlands, understanding the Dutch visa options and requirements is essential for a smooth relocation.

For reference, the Schengen area is a European region of 29 countries that allows for borderless travel within other member states.

When do you need a visa for Netherlands?

For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you do not need a visa if you are from a country that is part of the visa waiver program.

However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you would need a long-stay visa or a residence permit, not a Schengen (short-stay) visa. The Schengen visa is for short stays of up to 90 days.

Generally, if you’re a member of the EU, EEA, or Swiss, you won’t need a visa for a short stay or entry. Non-EU citizens must check via the Europa website whether a visa is needed. Countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States will also not require visas.

If you’re staying over 90 days for work, studying, or staying with family, you’ll require an MVV or long-stay-visa.

You may also require a transit visa if you’re using the Netherlands to go to another country and you’re planning on leaving the international transit area of your Netherlands airport.

Netherlands visa requirements

To apply for a Netherlands visa, you'll typically need to:

• Complete the application form: Fill it out accurately and sign it.
• Provide passport photos: Recent ones with a white background.
• Submit your passport: It must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure and have at least 2 blank pages.
• Provide evidence of your legal residence in the country where you are applying for the visa. This can include a valid passport or a valid visa or residence permit, with a copy. Your residence permit must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.
• Have a travel itinerary: This includes confirmed travel reservations to and from the Schengen area.
• Demonstrate your intention to return home after your visit. To do this, you'll typically need to provide a confirmed flight itinerary or reservation for your entire trip, including your return flight or show proof you have sufficient funds. In some cases, you may be asked to provide the actual flight ticket.
• Have health insurance: You must have a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenses, coverage for repatriation in case of death, and valid coverage for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area.
• Show proof of sufficient funds: You need to demonstrate you can support yourself financially during your stay. This is €55 per day, covering every day you’re in The Netherlands if you stay for up to a maximum of 90 days.

• Provide additional documents based on your situation:

  ◦ Employed: Payslips, employment contract, leave of absence.

  ◦ Self-employed: Company registration certificate.

  ◦ Retired: Pension statements, proof of income from business or property.

  ◦ Sponsored: Proof of sponsorship and/or accommodation.

  ◦ Minor: Birth certificate, parental consent, possibly custody documents or school permission.

Remember:

• All documents should be in Dutch, English, French, or Spanish, or translated if necessary. There are websites that can generate your application in Dutch, like VFS Global.
• You'll need both originals and copies of all documents.
• You must pay the applicable visa fee.
• Requirements may vary slightly depending on your nationality, purpose of travel, and individual circumstances.
• Always double-check the specific requirements with the Dutch embassy or consulate where you'll be applying. The Netherlands Worldwide website is a great place full of information and tools to help, but using an advisor can help with any personal inquiries you may have.

For more detailed information on specific visa types and requirements, visit our dedicated visa pages.

Netherlands visa application process

When you’re ready to get your visa secured, don’t worry; the application process is pretty straightforward and well-organised. Here’s the general step-by-step process you’ll need to follow for a smooth and successful application experience.

1. Check if you need a visa: Before you start, confirm whether you need a visa and where to apply. You can find this information on the official Netherlands government website or through the VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
2. Gather your documents: The required documents depend on your reason for travel. Make sure you have everything ready, including your passport, photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, financial means, and any supporting documents related to your purpose of visit.
3. Make an appointment: Schedule an appointment at the . You can do this up to 6 months before your trip, but no later than 45 days before.
4. Attend your appointment: Bring all your documents, including the completed application form and the checklist, to your appointment. Be prepared for an interview and to pay the visa fee.
5. Collect your passport or have it sent: You'll be notified when your application is processed. You can then collect your passport or have it delivered. If approved, the visa will be in your passport.
6. Prepare for your trip: With your visa, you can travel to the Netherlands or any other Schengen country. Remember to check the visa's validity period and any additional travel requirements.

Of course, it depends on your personal circumstances and the visa you’re applying for, as well as how straightforward this will be. If you need any help along the way, it can pay to get a consultant who’ll walk you through the process and help you overcome any challenges you need to face.

Remember:

• Processing times can vary, so apply well in advance.
• You can track your application status online.
• If your application is refused, you'll receive an explanation.
• Double-check all requirements and information before submitting your application.

For further details and specific requirements, refer to the official Netherlands government website or the VFS Global Visa Application Centre.

Netherlands visa fees

The fees for a Netherlands visa vary based on the type of visa and your circumstances.

Short-stay Schengen visa fees

• Adults: €90
• Minors (6-12 years old): €45
• Minors (under 6 years old): Free
• Family members of EU/EEA nationals, students, teachers, researchers, and diplomatic/official passport holders: Free

Long-stay visa (MVV) fees

The MVV fees are more complex and depend on your reason for staying in the Netherlands. Here are some key categories and their fees:

• Family reunion/partner: €171 (adults), €57 (minors)
• Study: €171
• Work (highly skilled migrant, self-employed, etc.): €171 - €285 (depending on the category)
• Other purposes (startup, humanitarian, medical, etc.): Fees vary widely.

Permanent residence permit fees

• Adults: €57 - €171 (depending on the category)
• Minors: €30 - €57 (depending on the category)

Important notes:

• Fees are subject to change. Always confirm the latest fees with the official Netherlands government website or the VFS Global visa application centre.
• Some categories may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions.
• Additional service fees may apply if you use a visa application centre.

For a complete and up-to-date list of fees, visit the official Netherlands government website.

How to get a permanent residence permit in the Netherlands?

A permanent residence permit allows you to live and work in the Netherlands indefinitely. To be eligible, you generally need to meet these requirements:

• Valid residence for five years: You must have held a valid Dutch residence permit for at least 5 consecutive years, with some exceptions possible.
• Main residence in the Netherlands: Your primary residence must have been in the Netherlands during those 5 years.
• Timely renewals & compliance: You must have always renewed your residence permit on time and met all its requirements.
• Current non-temporary residence permit: You currently hold a valid residence permit for non-temporary purposes.
• An honest application: You didn't provide false or incomplete information on your current residence permit application.
• Sufficient income: You meet the minimum income requirements.
• Registration & civic integration: You're registered in the Personal Records Database and have passed the civic integration exam or are exempt.

Exceptions & special cases:

• Born in the Netherlands or arrived young: If you were born in the Netherlands or arrived before age 3 and have lived here continuously, your application can only be rejected if you pose a threat to public order or national security.
• Long-term EU resident: The IND will automatically check if you qualify for this status, which makes it easier to get a residence permit in another EU country.

Remember:

• Specific requirements and exceptions may apply.
• Always refer to the official IND website for the most up-to-date information.

Learn More

How to get Dutch citizenship?

There are three main paths to Dutch citizenship: automatic acquisition at birth (if one or both parents are Dutch citizens), through a simplified "option procedure" for certain eligible groups, or through naturalisation, which generally requires at least 5 years of legal residence in the Netherlands.

The option procedure is faster, taking about 3 months, but has stricter eligibility criteria. Naturalization, while taking longer (usually under a year), is open to a wider range of applicants who meet the residency and other requirements.

Learn More