Netherlands Visa for Indians – Complete Guide (2025)

The Netherlands is well-known for its breathtaking tulip fields, windmills, charming canals, and rich artistic heritage, attracting millions of tourists every year. Indian passport holders require a visa to travel to the Netherlands for tourism, business, or education. Whether you’re visiting Amsterdam for a short break or planning a longer stay for career or academic purposes, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Netherlands visa procedures.

As part of the Schengen Area—comprising 29 European countries—the Netherlands allows visitors to travel freely within the region on a single visa. This means a Netherlands visa also enables travel to other Schengen countries such as France, Germany, and Belgium. Indian citizens must obtain a visa before entering the Netherlands unless they already hold a valid Schengen visa.

Indian passport holders can apply for a Netherlands visa after determining the purpose and duration of their visit. Below are the main types of visas available.

Types of Netherlands Visas for Indians

1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)

• Purpose: Tourism, visiting family or friends, or short business travel.
• Duration: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Common For: Holidays, family gatherings, and conferences.
• Example: A short-stay tourist visa is necessary for Indians visiting cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague.

1. Long-Stay Visa (MVV – Type D)

• Purpose: Work, study, family reunification, or long-term residency.
• Duration: More than 90 days.
• Also Known As: Provisional residence permit (MVV).
• Requires additional permits after arrival in the Netherlands.

1. Airport Transit Visa

• Purpose: Required for certain Indian travellers transiting through the Netherlands without entering the country.
• Common For: Passengers connecting flights through Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Netherlands Tourist Visa from India – Key Details

A tourist visa is necessary for Indian travellers visiting the Netherlands for sightseeing or leisure purposes.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Valid Indian Passport: At least 3 months validity beyond the return date, with at least 2 blank pages.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Bank statements or other proof showing financial capacity to cover the trip.
• Confirmed Bookings: Flight and hotel confirmations or invitation letters from hosts.
• Travel Insurance: Minimum €30,000 coverage for medical expenses in the Schengen Area.

Netherlands Tourist Visa Processing Time

As of 2025, the average processing time for a Netherlands tourist visa in India is 15–21 calendar days after submission. During peak travel seasons (April–June and November–December), processing may take longer.

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

• Completeness of submitted documents.
• Embassy workload and seasonal demand.
• Additional verification of financial or invitation documents.

Recommendation: Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your intended travel date to avoid delays.

Netherlands Visa Application Process for Indians

Visa applications in India are handled by VFS Global, the official partner of the Netherlands embassy.

Step 1 – Choose the Visa Type
Determine whether you need a short-stay or long-stay visa by checking the Netherlands official visa website or VFS Global.

Step 2 – Fill the Application Form
Complete the Schengen visa form online or download and print it. Ensure all details match your passport exactly.

Step 3 – Schedule an Appointment
Book an appointment at a VFS Global Netherlands Visa Application Centre in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and other locations).

Step 4 – Prepare Required Documents

• Passport (issued in the last 10 years, with required validity)
• Visa application form (completed and signed)
• Two passport-size photos (as per Schengen specifications)
• Confirmed flight itinerary
• Accommodation proof (hotel booking or invitation letter)
• Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, ITR, salary slips)
• Visa fee payment receipt

Step 5 – Attend Appointment and Biometrics
Submit documents and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) at the VFS centre.

Step 6 – Pay Visa Fee

• Adults: €90 (~₹8,100)
• Children aged 6–12: €45 (~₹4,050)
• Children under 6: Free

Step 7 – Track Your Application
Monitor your visa status online using the reference number provided by VFS Global.

Step 8 – Collect Your Passport
Pick up your passport in person or opt for courier delivery after processing.

Documents Required for a Netherlands Visa from India

• Completed and signed visa application form.
• Valid passport with required validity.
• Two recent photographs with a white background.
• Confirmed travel itinerary (flights).
• Hotel booking or invitation letter.
• Travel insurance covering the entire stay.
• Proof of financial means (last 3–6 months bank statements).
• Cover letter explaining the trip purpose.
• Visa fee payment receipt.

Where to Apply for a Netherlands Visa in India

Applications can be made at authorised VFS Global centres across India:

• New Delhi – Embassy jurisdiction for North India.
• Mumbai – Consulate jurisdiction for Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa.
• Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad – Regional centres for other states.

Tips for a Successful Netherlands Visa Application

• Apply early to avoid seasonal rush.
• Double-check that all documents meet embassy requirements.
• Present a clear travel itinerary with specific dates and locations.
• Maintain a healthy bank balance to show financial stability.
• Avoid making non-refundable bookings before visa approval.

After Receiving Your Netherlands Visa

• Verify all details on your visa sticker (name, passport number, validity dates).
• Note that short-stay visas allow a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.
• Respect Schengen visa rules to avoid issues with future applications.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

• Insufficient proof of funds.
• Missing or incomplete documents.
• Unclear purpose of travel.
• Previous Schengen visa overstays.

If your visa is denied, you may file an appeal within 4 weeks of receiving the decision.