1. DETERMINE VISA TYPE

• Short-Stay (Schengen Visa): For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or visiting family/friends.
• Long-Stay (National Visa): For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work, study, family reunification).

2. PREPARE DOCUMENTS

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure.
• Completed application form: Available on the embassy/consulate website.
• Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos.
• Travel insurance: Covers medical emergencies with a minimum of €30,000 for the Schengen area.
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking or invitation letter if staying with family/friends.
• Financial proof: Bank statements or pay slips showing enough funds for your stay.
• Flight itinerary: Show your entry and exit dates.
• Visa fee: Typically €80 for adults (subject to change).

3. SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

• Book an appointment at the nearest Dutch Embassy or Consulate or via an external service provider (e.g., VFS Global) in your country.

4. SUBMIT APPLICATION

• Attend your scheduled appointment with all documents. Biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) will be taken for visa processing.

5. WAIT FOR PROCESSING

• Visa processing usually takes around 15 calendar days, but may take longer if extra documents or an interview is needed.

6. COLLECT VISA

• Once your visa is approved, you’ll be notified to collect your passport with the visa.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

• Apply at least 3 weeks before your trip, but no more than 6 months in advance.
• Ensure your travel insurance covers all potential medical situations during your stay in the Schengen area.
• If you plan to visit multiple Schengen countries, apply for the visa at the embassy of the country where you’ll spend the most time.