Netherlands Visa

Types of Netherlands Visas

Before planning your travel or long-term relocation, it’s important to choose the correct visa type based on your purpose and length of stay. Here’s a detailed overview of the various Netherlands visa types for Indian citizens:

Short-stay Visa (Schengen Type C)

The Netherlands sticker visa for short stays is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa also allows free movement across all 29 Schengen countries.

This visa is suitable for:

• Tourism – Explore historical cities, Dutch countryside, and cultural festivals
• Business – Attend business meetings, events, and exhibitions
• Short-term Study – Useful for courses under 90 days

Long-stay Visa (MVV)

If you’re planning to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, you’ll need an MVV, also known as a long-stay visa. This visa is a prerequisite for a residence permit (VVR) and must be obtained through the Netherlands Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

This visa applies to those who wish to:

• Study – Enrol in Dutch universities or language programs
• Work – Start employment with a Dutch company
• Live in the Netherlands – Join family members, retire, or settle long-term

Once granted, the MVV allows you to enter the country and apply for your residence permit within one month of arrival.

Dutch Caribbean Visa

The Dutch Caribbean comprises Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten — all part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands but located in the Caribbean. Indian citizens require a separate visa to visit these islands.

Short-stay Caribbean Visa

• Valid for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period
• Allows multiple entries across Dutch Caribbean islands
• Not valid for paid work or Schengen zone entry, including the European part of Netherlands

Long-stay Caribbean Visa

• Required for stays over 90 days
• Involves a residence permit application
• A visa may be needed to collect the residence permit

Schengen Visa Netherlands from India

Indian travellers heading to the Netherlands for a holiday, business trip, or family visit will need a Netherlands Schengen visa (Type C). This short-stay visa lets you spend up to 90 days in the Netherlands—and explore other Schengen countries too—all within a 180-day period. Applications must be submitted through the official Netherlands visa portal and processed via VFS Global centres in India. Biometric data, including fingerprints, is also collected as part of the process. It’s a quick and efficient way to get one step closer to your European adventure.

How to Apply for Netherlands Visa on MakeMyTrip

Getting to Netherlands is easier than you think — especially with MakeMyTrip taking care of the visa process from start to finish. Whether you’re heading to the Netherlands for a quick getaway, a business conference, or a longer stay to study or work, we’ve made the visa journey smooth, guided, and stress-free.

Here’s how you can apply for your visa:

• Start by selecting Netherlands as your destination within the Schengen zone.
• Choose your purpose of travel – tourism, business, studies, or employment.
• Upload a clear photo of your passport's first page to initiate the application.
• Make a secure online payment to book your Netherlands visa appointment.
• Receive step-by-step support from a MakeMyTrip visa expert.
• Visit the nearest VFS Global centre to submit documents and give biometrics.
• Children under 12 are exempt from biometric submission.
• Choose to collect your passport or have it couriered (extra charges may apply).
• In select cities, MakeMyTrip officers can assist you at your appointment.
• The Netherlands Embassy may call you for a personal interview if required.
• Track your visa status anytime via the ‘My Trips’ section on MakeMyTrip.
• Once approved, get an SMS or email when your passport is ready for collection or dispatch.

With MakeMyTrip, applying for a Netherlands visa for Indians is no longer a task. We handle the details — you focus on the excitement of your upcoming Dutch adventure.

Netherlands Visa Fee

Before you dive into planning your Dutch adventure, it’s smart to know the Netherlands visa price. The fee depends on the type of Netherlands visa you need and the applicant’s age. Here’s a quick snapshot to help you budget your trip with ease:

Do note that these are standard Netherlands visa fees and don’t include extras like service charges, courier delivery, or biometric fees — these may vary based on your location and the visa application centre.

Documents Required for Netherlands Visa Application

Applying for a Netherlands visa from India doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when your documents are perfectly in place. With MakeMyTrip, the paperwork becomes a breeze. From the moment you start, a dedicated visa expert will guide you through every document you need, ensuring everything aligns with embassy standards.

Look at the essential documents you’ll need to keep ready:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your return from the Netherlands or Schengen region.
• Old Passports: Include previous passports, especially those with travel stamps or visas.
• Photographs: Recent passport-size photos as per Schengen photo specifications.
• Visa Application Form: Filled and signed form provided by the MakeMyTrip consultant.
• Flight Bookings: Confirmed round-trip or onward tickets matching your travel dates.
• Travel Insurance: Schengen-compliant insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation.
• Cover Letter: A brief letter outlining your travel purpose, itinerary, and stay details.
• Financial Documents: Bank statements or income proof showing funds to cover your trip.
• Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host in the Netherlands.
• Biometrics: Fingerprint submission at the visa centre (exemptions apply for some applicants).

Netherlands Tourist Visa: Requirements and Application Process

If you're an Indian passport holder planning a trip to the Netherlands, you'll need to apply for a visa in advance—visa-free entry isn't permitted. The most popular choice is the short-stay Schengen Visa (Type C), perfect for tourism, business visits, or family travel.

• Eligibility Criteria: You must hold an Indian passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your return from the Schengen region.
• How to Apply: Begin your application on the MakeMyTrip app or website and book a Netherlands visa appointment at the nearest VFS Global centre.
• Documents Required: Collect documents as per the official Netherlands visa checklist, ensuring everything is accurate, clear, and updated.
• Visa Fee Payment: Complete the process by securely paying the Netherlands visa fee online.

Schengen Visa Letter

A well-written cover letter strengthens your Netherlands Schengen visa application by clearly stating your travel purpose. This includes your day-by-day travel itinerary, where you’ll be staying, how your trip will be funded, and your commitment to return to India after your visit.

It helps visa officers quickly understand your plans—whether for tourism, business, or visiting family. Using the correct Netherlands visa cover letter format adds a professional edge, aligning your documents and improving your chances of approval.

Benefits of Applying for a Netherlands Visa Online

Kickstart your Netherlands travel plans the smart way—with MakeMyTrip’s fully online visa application process designed especially for Indian travellers. It’s simple, secure, and saves you time at every step.

• Get step-by-step support from visa experts throughout your application.
• Enjoy fast, accurate document checks to avoid delays.
• Upload documents online—no need to carry hard copies during the initial steps.
• Pay with confidence thanks to MakeMyTrip’s transparent, no-hidden-fee pricing.
• Track your Netherlands visa status anytime via ‘My Trips’ on the MakeMyTrip app or website.

Netherlands Visa Application Tips and Best Practices

A bit of smart planning can make your Netherlands visa for Indian citizens process seamless and stress-free. With the right steps and the right support, getting your visa approved becomes a breeze.

• Check your details carefully: Ensure all the information on your application matches your passport to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Organise your documents: Keep everything handy—passport, photos, flight bookings, hotel confirmations, travel insurance, and financial proof.
• Apply early: Start your application at least 3 to 4 weeks ahead of your travel date to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Stick to the guidelines: Make sure your documents are clear, correctly formatted, and meet all Schengen requirements.
• Use a trusted platform: With MakeMyTrip, you benefit from expert guidance, secure online uploads, and real-time status tracking.

Netherlands Visa Processing Time

Generally, the Netherlands tourist visa processing time is 30 working days. However, the timeline may vary depending on several factors. Delays can occur if the Netherlands Embassy requests extra documents, calls you in for a personal interview, or if you're applying during peak travel seasons.

How to Track Your Netherlands Visa Application Status on MakeMyTrip

With MakeMyTrip, keeping tabs on your Netherlands visa application status is fast and effortless. You can monitor every step of your application journey right from your device. Here's how:

• Log in to your MakeMyTrip account.
• Head to the ‘My Trips’ section.
• Get real-time updates on the progress of your Netherlands visa for Indians.

Netherlands Visa Extension and Renewal

While a standard Netherlands tourist visa (Schengen Type C) is issued for up to 90 days within a 180-day window, extending your stay is only possible under highly specific and exceptional circumstances.

Extensions are not commonly approved and are generally limited to cases like:

• Unexpected medical issues requiring treatment in the Netherlands
• Travel disruptions, such as cancelled return flights or natural disasters
• Serious personal or humanitarian reasons

If your visa was granted for under 90 days, you may apply for an extension. However, your total stay in the Schengen Area must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. If extended beyond that, your visa will only be valid for the Netherlands, not for other Schengen countries.

To request an extension, you’ll need to:

• Schedule an appointment with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) before your visa expires
• Provide solid documentation proving why an extension is necessary
• Be aware that approval is not guaranteed and is entirely at the discretion of Dutch immigration authorities

Common Reasons for Netherlands Visa Rejection

Facing a visa rejection can be disappointing, especially when you're excited to explore the Netherlands. However, understanding why applications are turned down can help you prepare better and avoid common pitfalls.

Many Indian applicants face rejections due to avoidable mistakes such as:

• Incomplete documentation or forms filled with incorrect details.
• Errors or inconsistencies in passport information.
• Lack of sufficient financial evidence to support your stay.
• Ambiguity around the reason for travel or an ill-defined itinerary.
• Previous violations like overstaying or breaching visa terms in Schengen countries.
• Travel insurance that lacks necessary coverage.
• Weak ties to India that raise doubts about your return after the trip.

Netherlands Visa Cancellation and Refund Process

Changed your travel plans? If you’re thinking about cancelling your Netherlands visa application, there are a few important things to be aware of before proceeding.

• Visa Cancellation: If your Netherlands visa application hasn’t been submitted to the issuing authority, cancellation may still be possible.
• Cancellation Charges: These depend on how far along your application is. Once it reaches the issuing authority, cancellation is not allowed.
• Refunds: The Netherlands visa fee is non-refundable once processing begins.

Netherlands Embassy Information

For visa-related assistance or document verification, Indian travellers can reach out to the Embassy of Netherlands, or its consulates located across India:

• Netherlands Embassy in India: Located in New Delhi, the Netherlands Embassy handles official consular matters and visa services.
• Netherlands Consulates: Consulates in Mumbai and Bangalore provide regional assistance to Indian travellers.
• Embassy Contact Information: For updated contacts and office hours, check the official Embassy website or VFS Global.
• Visa Support Services: All Netherlands Schengen visa applications must be submitted via authorised VFS Global centres in India.
• Embassy Fee: Extra charges may apply for services like urgent processing, attestation, or translations.

Netherlands Visa for Business Travellers

Heading to the Netherlands for business? Whether it's a conference, client meeting, or trade fair, Indian professionals can apply for a Netherlands business visa with complete guidance from MakeMyTrip—making the entire process smooth and stress-free.

• Purpose: Travel to the Netherlands for official business activities such as meetings, seminars, exhibitions, or corporate collaborations.
• Visa Type: Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)
• Duration: Permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Final duration is subject to approval based on travel purpose and supporting documents.
• Documents Required: An official letter from your current employer stating your designation, reason for travel, and trip duration and a formal invitation from the Netherlands-based business partner or host organisation. Both letters must be signed, stamped, and include clear contact details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Netherlands Visa

Q1. How can I apply for a Netherlands visa online?

You can apply online via MakeMyTrip by selecting your travel purpose, filling the visa form, uploading documents, booking a biometric appointment at VFS Global, and paying the visa fee..

Q2. What’s the processing time for a Netherlands visa?

The visa usually takes around 30 working days to process, but it may take longer during busy periods or if additional documents or interviews are required.

Q3. Is it possible to apply for a Netherlands tourist visa online?

Yes, Indian travellers can apply online through platforms like MakeMyTrip by submitting documents, paying fee, and scheduling biometric appointments.

Q4. What documents are required for a Netherlands visa?

You need a valid passport, recent photos, travel insurance, confirmed flight and hotel bookings, bank statements, and a completed visa application form.

Q5. How much does a Netherlands visa cost for Indian applicants?

The fee is INR 8,650 for adults and INR 4,320 for children aged 6 to 11, plus any applicable service charges.

Q6.How do I check my Netherlands visa status online?

Log in to your MakeMyTrip account, go to the ‘My Trips’ section, and track your visa status.

Q7. What is the validity of a Netherlands short-stay visa?

It allows stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries.

Q8. Is visa on arrival available for Indian citizens in the Netherlands?

No, Indian citizens must obtain a visa before travelling; visa on arrival is not available.

Q9.Can I apply online for a business visa to the Netherlands?

Yes, you can apply online with an employer letter and an invitation from a Netherlands-based company.

Q10. What is a Schengen visa?

It is a short-term visa that permits travel across 29 European countries, including the Netherlands, for up to 90 days within 180 days.

Q11. What is an MVV (Long-Stay Visa) for the Netherlands?

An MVV is a pre-entry visa for stays over 90 days. It allows you to enter the Netherlands and apply for a residence permit

Q12. What is a Dutch Caribbean Visa?

This visa lets you visit Dutch Caribbean islands like Aruba and Curaçao for up to 90 days, but it does not allow travel to mainland Netherlands or Schengen countries.