Netherlands Tourist Visa for Indians: Requirements, Fees & Application Process (2026)

Types of Netherlands Tourist Visas

Type C Visa (Short-Stay Schengen Visa) This is the most common visa for tourists visiting the Netherlands. Key features include:

• Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period
• Entry types: Single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry
• Coverage: Access to all 27 Schengen countries
• Purpose: Tourism, business meetings, family visits, cultural events, medical treatment

Schengen Countries Covered: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Who Needs a Netherlands Tourist Visa?

All Indian passport holders require a Schengen visa to enter the Netherlands for short stays. You must apply for a Netherlands visa if:

• You hold an Indian passport
• You plan to visit the Netherlands or any Schengen country for tourism
• Your stay will be 90 days or less within a 180-day period
• You're traveling for leisure, business, family visits, or cultural purposes

Proper documentation is critical for visa approval. According to VFS Global, approximately 35% of rejected applications stem from documentation errors. Here's the comprehensive checklist for 2025-2026:

1. Passport Requirements

Your passport must meet these specific criteria:

• Validity: At least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area
• Issue date: Issued within the last 10 years
• Blank pages: Minimum of 2 blank visa pages
• Condition: Undamaged, with your signature
• Previous passports: Submit if available, especially if they contain previous Schengen visas

Expert Tip: If your passport expires within 6 months of your travel date, consider renewing it before applying to avoid complications.

2. Visa Application Form

• Completed Schengen visa application form (available on Netherlands Worldwide website)
• Must be filled out online to generate a unique code
• Print, sign, and date the form
• Ensure all information matches your passport exactly
• No blank fields - mark "N/A" if not applicable

Critical: Never use someone else's form or a form without the unique code, as this will cause processing delays.

3. Photographs

Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting Dutch specifications:

• Size: 35mm x 45mm (3.5cm x 4.5cm)
• Background: White or light-colored
• Age: Taken within the last 6 months
• Quality: Color, clear, high resolution
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open
• Head coverage: 70-80% of the photo
• Glasses: Allowed if worn daily, but no tinted lenses

4. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

Comprehensive travel medical insurance is non-negotiable:

• Minimum coverage: €30,000 (approximately ₹31,20,000)
• Validity: Must cover your entire stay in the Schengen Area
• Coverage area: All 27 Schengen countries
• Inclusions: Medical emergencies, hospitalization, repatriation, emergency medical evacuation
• Provider: Must be recognized by Schengen authorities

Common Mistake: Many applicants submit policies that don't cover the full duration or all Schengen countries, leading to automatic rejection.

5. Proof of Financial Means

You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your entire stay:

• Bank statements: Last 3-6 months, stamped and signed by the bank
• Minimum balance: Approximately €34-55 per day (₹3,500-5,700 per day)
• Salary slips: Last 3 months
• Income Tax Returns (ITR): Last 2-3 years
• Employment letter: On company letterhead with salary details
• Sponsorship letter: If someone else is funding your trip (with their bank statements)

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Large, unexplained deposits just before application
• Inconsistent transaction history
• Insufficient average balance
• Missing or incomplete statements

6. Travel Itinerary & Accommodation

Flight Reservations:

• Round-trip flight bookings (confirmed but not necessarily paid)
• Clear entry and exit dates
• Proof of intra-Schengen travel if visiting multiple countries

Accommodation Proof:

• Hotel reservations for every night of your stay
• Booking confirmations with your name, dates, and hotel details
• OR Invitation letter from host (if staying with friends/family)

If Staying with Friends/Family:

• Completed proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation form
• Host's Dutch ID card or passport copy
• Host's residence permit (if not Dutch national)
• Form must be signed by host and legalized by Dutch municipality

Expert Tip: Book refundable accommodations until your visa is approved to avoid financial loss in case of rejection.

7. Employment & Ties to India

For Employed Applicants:

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer on company letterhead
• Leave approval letter
• Employment contract or appointment letter
• Company registration documents (if self-employed)

For Students:

• NOC from educational institution
• Student ID card
• Enrollment certificate

For Retired Individuals:

• Pension statements
• Retirement proof

For Business Owners:

• Business registration documents
• GST registration
• Income tax returns
• Bank statements showing business transactions

8. Cover Letter

A well-written cover letter significantly strengthens your application:

• State your personal information clearly
• Explain the purpose of your visit in detail
• Outline your complete travel itinerary
• Demonstrate financial means and intent to return to India
• Mention your employment status and ties to India
• Keep it concise (1-2 pages maximum)

9. Additional Documents (If Applicable)

For Minors (Under 18):

• Birth certificate
• Consent letter signed by both parents/legal guardians
• Copies of parents' passports and valid visas
• Proof of custody (if applicable)

For Business Travel:

• Invitation letter from Dutch company
• Business registration documents
• Conference/event registration

For Medical Treatment:

• Medical documents from Dutch hospital
• Proof of payment or financial guarantee

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before starting your application:

• Confirm you need a Schengen visa (all Indian passport holders do)
• Verify the Netherlands is your main destination or first point of entry
• Check you meet all basic requirements
• Ensure your passport is valid

Step 2: Gather All Required Documents

Using the checklist above:

• Collect all mandatory documents
• Ensure everything is complete, accurate, and up-to-date
• Make copies of all documents
• Organize documents according to the VFS Global checklist

Timeline: Start gathering documents at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

1. Visit the official Netherlands Worldwide website
2. Fill out the Schengen visa application form online
3. Generate your unique application code
4. Print the completed form
5. Sign and date the form
6. Double-check all information for accuracy

Important: You can apply for your visa up to 6 months before your trip but no later than 45 days before departure.

Step 4: Book Your VFS Global Appointment

VFS Global Centers in India:

• New Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bangalore
• Chennai
• Hyderabad
• Kolkata
• Pune
• Ahmedabad
• Chandigarh
• Cochin
• Goa
• Jalandhar

How to Book:

1. Visit the VFS Global Netherlands visa website
2. Select "Book an Appointment"
3. Choose your nearest VFS center
4. Select available date and time
5. Pay the VFS service fee (approximately ₹1,700 + GST)
6. Receive appointment confirmation via email

Pro Tips:

• Book your appointment yourself - avoid intermediaries
• Make separate appointments for each applicant
• Arrive 15 minutes early on appointment day
• Bring all original documents plus photocopies

Step 5: Attend Your VFS Global Appointment

On your appointment day, you will:

1. Submit your completed application form and all documents
2. Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) if you're 12 or older
3. Pay the visa fee (€90 for adults, €45 for children 6-11)
4. Answer questions about your trip
5. Choose passport collection method (in-person or courier)
6. Receive a reference number to track your application

Biometric Exemption: If you've provided fingerprints for a Schengen visa within the last 59 months, you may be exempt from biometric collection. However, VFS Global cannot verify this - if unsure, attend in person.

Step 6: Track Your Application

After submission:

• Use your reference number to track application status online
• Check the VFS Global tracking portal regularly
• Wait for email notification (do not contact embassy for status updates)

Step 7: Collect Your Passport

Once processed (typically 15-45 days):

• You'll receive an email notification
• Collect your passport from VFS Global or receive it via courier
• Immediately verify all visa details are correct:
• Your name spelling
• Passport number
• Visa validity dates
• Number of entries allowed
• Duration of stay

If there's an error: Contact VFS Global or the Dutch embassy immediately. Airlines may refuse boarding if visa details don't match your passport.

Official Consular Fees

Exchange Rate: €1 = ₹104 (as of December 2025)

VFS Global Service Charges

In addition to the consular fee, VFS Global charges:

• Mandatory service fee: ₹1,700 (inclusive of GST) per application
• Optional services:
• Courier passport return: ₹700
• SMS alerts: ₹150
• Photo service: ₹300
• Photocopying: ₹2 per page

Total Cost Breakdown

For an Adult Applicant:

• Consular fee: ₹9,360
• VFS service fee: ₹1,700
• Total minimum: ₹11,060

Additional Costs to Consider:

• Travel insurance: ₹500-2,000 (depending on coverage and duration)
• Photographs: ₹100-300
• Document preparation: ₹500-1,000
• Travel to VFS center: Variable

Total estimated cost: ₹12,000-15,000 per person

Fee Exemptions

Visa fees are waived for:

• Children under 6 years
• Students traveling for educational purposes (with proof)
• Researchers traveling for scientific research
• Participants in cultural or sporting events (under 25 years)
• Diplomatic passport holders

Note: VFS service charges still apply even if consular fees are waived.

Standard Processing Timeline

Official Processing Time: 15 calendar days from the date of application submission

Maximum Processing Time: Up to 45 calendar days in cases requiring:

• Additional document verification
• Consultation with other Schengen member states
• Background checks
• High application volumes during peak season

Factors Affecting Processing Time

1. Application completeness: Complete applications process faster
2. Peak travel seasons: Summer (May-August) and winter holidays see longer processing times
3. Nationality checks: Mandatory consultation for certain nationalities can add up to 7 days
4. Document verification: Additional scrutiny may extend processing
5. VFS center location: Some centers may have longer processing times

Real-World Processing Times (Based on 2024-2025 Data)

• Fast track: 10-12 days (well-documented applications during off-peak)
• Average: 15-20 days (standard applications)
• Delayed: 30-45 days (peak season or additional verification needed)

Expert Recommendation: Apply at least 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date to account for any delays and avoid last-minute stress.

Tracking Your Application

You can track your application status using:

1. VFS Global online tracking portal
2. Your unique reference number
3. Passport number

Status Updates:

• Application received
• Under process at embassy
• Decision made
• Passport dispatched
• Ready for collection

Understanding common rejection reasons helps you avoid costly mistakes. Here are the top reasons Indian applicants face visa rejection:

1. Insufficient Financial Proof (35% of rejections)

Why it happens:

• Incomplete bank statements
• Insufficient average balance
• Large, unexplained deposits just before application
• No proof of regular income

How to avoid:

• Maintain consistent balance for 3-6 months
• Show regular salary credits
• Provide explanation for large deposits
• Submit 6 months of bank statements (not just 3)

2. Incomplete or Incorrect Application Form (30% of rejections)

Common mistakes:

• Blank mandatory fields
• Incorrect passport number or dates
• Name spelling doesn't match passport
• Missing signature
• Inconsistent information across documents

How to avoid:

• Fill form carefully with passport in hand
• Double-check every field before submission
• Have someone proofread your application
• Ensure consistency across all documents

3. Inadequate Travel Insurance (20% of rejections)

Why it happens:

• Coverage less than €30,000
• Doesn't cover all Schengen countries
• Validity period shorter than trip duration
• Policy not recognized by Schengen authorities

How to avoid:

• Purchase insurance from reputable providers
• Verify €30,000 minimum coverage
• Ensure validity covers entire trip + buffer days
• Confirm coverage includes all Schengen countries

4. Weak Ties to India (15% of rejections)

Red flags:

• No stable employment
• No property ownership
• No family ties in India
• Previous overstays or visa violations
• Unclear intent to return

How to avoid:

• Provide strong employment proof
• Submit property documents
• Include family ties documentation
• Show ongoing commitments in India (job, business, studies)

5. Unclear Purpose of Visit (12% of rejections)

Why it happens:

• Vague travel itinerary
• No hotel bookings
• Inconsistent travel plans
• Suspicious travel patterns

How to avoid:

• Provide detailed day-by-day itinerary
• Book accommodations for entire stay
• Explain purpose clearly in cover letter
• Ensure consistency between documents

6. Invalid or Expired Passport (10% of rejections)

Issues:

• Passport expires within 3 months of departure
• Passport issued more than 10 years ago
• Damaged passport
• Insufficient blank pages

How to avoid:

• Renew passport if expiring soon
• Ensure passport is in good condition
• Check for at least 2 blank pages
• Verify issue date is within 10 years

7. Previous Visa Violations (10% of rejections)

Red flags:

• Previous Schengen overstays
• Visa violations in any country
• Deportation history
• False information in previous applications

How to avoid:

• Be honest about travel history
• Explain any previous issues clearly
• Provide evidence of compliance
• Never hide previous rejections

8. Suspicious Travel History (8% of rejections)

Concerns:

• No previous international travel
• Multiple visa rejections
• Frequent short-term visits
• Gaps in travel history

How to avoid:

• Build travel history gradually
• Provide explanation for gaps
• Show domestic travel if no international travel
• Be transparent about previous applications

9. False or Forged Documents (5% of rejections)

Serious offense:

• Fake bank statements
• Forged employment letters
• False invitation letters
• Manipulated documents

Consequences:

• Immediate rejection
• Ban on future applications
• Report to Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Legal consequences

How to avoid:

• Never submit false documents
• Use only genuine, verifiable documents
• Be honest in all information
• Seek professional help if needed

10. Incomplete Accommodation Proof (5% of rejections)

Issues:

• Missing hotel bookings
• Gaps in accommodation
• Unverified invitation letters
• Suspicious booking confirmations

How to avoid:

• Book accommodations for every night
• Provide confirmed reservations
• If staying with host, submit properly legalized invitation
• Ensure booking confirmations show your name

Based on insights from visa consultants and successful applicants, here are proven strategies to maximize your approval chances:

1. Apply Early and Plan Ahead

• Start document preparation 6-8 weeks before travel
• Apply 4-6 weeks before departure (not last minute)
• Avoid peak season applications if possible
• Allow buffer time for potential delays

2. Maintain Financial Discipline

• Keep consistent bank balance for 6 months
• Avoid large cash deposits before application
• Show regular income sources
• Maintain minimum €34-55 per day for trip duration

3. Create a Compelling Cover Letter

Your cover letter should:

• Clearly state purpose of visit
• Outline detailed itinerary
• Demonstrate strong ties to India
• Show financial capability
• Express intent to return
• Be concise and professional (1-2 pages)

4. Demonstrate Strong Ties to India

Employment:

• Stable job with good salary
• Leave approval from employer
• Intent to return to work

Property:

• Home ownership documents
• Land ownership papers
• Rental agreements

Family:

• Spouse and children in India
• Dependent parents
• Family business

Financial:

• Fixed deposits
• Investments
• Ongoing loan commitments

5. Prepare a Detailed Travel Itinerary

Include:

• Day-by-day schedule
• Places you'll visit
• Activities planned
• Transportation between cities
• Accommodation for each night
• Estimated daily expenses

6. Choose the Right Visa Type and Entry

• Apply for appropriate visa category
• Request multiple-entry if planning multiple trips
• Ensure Netherlands is main destination or first entry point
• Be realistic about duration needed

7. Be Honest and Consistent

• Never provide false information
• Ensure consistency across all documents
• Disclose previous rejections if any
• Answer interview questions truthfully

8. Professional Presentation

• Organize documents neatly
• Use document folders or binders
• Attach documents in checklist order
• Include a cover page with document list
• Ensure all copies are clear and legible

9. Prepare for the Interview

While interviews aren't always mandatory, be prepared to:

• Explain your travel plans clearly
• Discuss your employment and financial situation
• Demonstrate knowledge of your itinerary
• Show enthusiasm for visiting the Netherlands
• Answer questions confidently and honestly

10. Consider Professional Assistance

If you're unsure about the process:

• Consult reputable visa consultants
• Use document verification services
• Seek help with complex cases
• Avoid agents making unrealistic promises

Documentation Errors

❌ Don't:

• Leave any field blank on application form
• Submit incomplete bank statements
• Provide outdated documents
• Use photocopies instead of originals
• Forget to sign documents

✅ Do:

• Fill every field (use "N/A" if not applicable)
• Submit complete 6-month bank statements
• Ensure all documents are current
• Bring originals with photocopies
• Sign and date all required documents

Financial Mistakes

❌ Don't:

• Make large deposits just before applying
• Show insufficient balance
• Provide inconsistent financial documents
• Hide income sources

✅ Do:

• Maintain steady balance for 6 months
• Show sufficient funds (€34-55/day minimum)
• Provide complete financial documentation
• Declare all income sources

Travel Planning Errors

❌ Don't:

• Book non-refundable tickets before visa approval
• Have gaps in accommodation
• Provide vague travel plans
• Apply to wrong embassy

✅ Do:

• Book refundable or hold tickets
• Confirm accommodation for every night
• Create detailed day-by-day itinerary
• Apply to Netherlands if it's main destination

Application Process Mistakes

❌ Don't:

• Apply too close to travel date
• Use someone else's application form
• Skip biometric appointment if required
• Ignore VFS Global instructions

✅ Do:

• Apply 6-8 weeks before travel
• Generate your own unique form online
• Attend biometric appointment in person
• Follow all VFS Global guidelines carefully

Understanding Your Visa

Once approved, carefully check your visa sticker for:

1. Visa Type: Should show "C" (short-stay Schengen visa)
2. Valid From/Until: The dates you can enter and exit the Schengen Area
3. Duration of Stay: Maximum days allowed (up to 90 days)
4. Number of Entries:

• Single entry: One entry only
• Double entry: Two entries allowed
• Multiple entry: Unlimited entries within validity period

5. Issued By: Should show "NLD" (Netherlands)
6. Remarks: Any special conditions or restrictions

Travel Guidelines

Before Departure:

• Verify all visa details match your passport
• Keep copies of all application documents
• Carry travel insurance policy
• Have proof of accommodation and return tickets
• Carry sufficient funds (cash, cards)

At the Border:

• Present your passport with visa
• Show return tickets and accommodation proof
• Demonstrate sufficient funds if asked
• Answer border control questions honestly
• Be prepared for biometric data collection (EES)

During Your Stay:

• Respect the 90-day limit strictly
• Keep track of days spent in Schengen Area
• Carry passport and visa at all times
• Follow local laws and regulations
• Keep accommodation receipts

Important: Overstaying your visa can result in:

• Fines and penalties
• Deportation
• Ban on future Schengen visas (up to 2 years)
• Entry in Schengen Information System

Extending Your Stay

If you need to extend your stay:

• Apply at least 2 weeks before visa expires
• Provide valid reasons (medical emergency, force majeure)
• Submit required documentation
• Pay extension fees
• Note: Extensions are rarely granted for tourism

Important Resources & Contact Information

Official Government Websites

Netherlands Worldwide (Official Visa Information):

• Website: www.netherlandsworldwide.nl
• Visa application forms and checklists
• Official fee information
• Processing time updates

Dutch Embassy in India:

• Location: New Delhi
• Email: nde@minbuza.nl
• Phone: +91-11-2419-7100
• Website: www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/countries/india

Dutch Consulates in India:

• Mumbai: +91-22-6669-2500
• Bangalore: +91-80-4017-9000

VFS Global Centers

VFS Global Netherlands Visa Application:

• Website: visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/nld
• Customer service: +91-22-6793-6363
• Email: info.nldin@vfsglobal.com
• Operating hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

VFS Global Center Locations:

• New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Cochin, Goa, Jalandhar

Travel Insurance Providers

Recommended insurance providers for Schengen visa:

• ICICI Lombard
• Bajaj Allianz
• Reliance General Insurance
• HDFC ERGO
• AXA Schengen
• Digit Insurance

Visa Consultation Services

Reputable Visa Consultants in India:

• VFS Global Premium Lounge Services
• Akbar Travels
• Thomas Cook
• Cox & Kings
• SOTC Travel

Note: Always verify credentials and avoid agents making unrealistic promises or charging excessive fees.

Securing a Netherlands tourist visa as an Indian citizen in 2025-2026 is a straightforward process when you're well-prepared and informed. With an impressive 83.2% approval rate, Indian travelers have excellent chances of obtaining their visa and exploring the beautiful Netherlands and broader Schengen Area.

Key Takeaways

1. Start Early: Begin your application process 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date to allow sufficient time for document preparation and processing.
2. Documentation is Critical: Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and consistent. Remember, 35% of rejections stem from documentation errors.
3. Financial Proof Matters: Maintain a healthy bank balance with consistent transaction history for at least 6 months. Show approximately €34-55 per day of your stay.
4. Be Honest and Consistent: Never provide false information or forged documents. Consistency across all documents is crucial for approval.
5. Demonstrate Strong Ties: Show clear intent to return to India through employment proof, property ownership, and family ties.
6. Follow the Process: Complete the online application form, book your VFS appointment, attend in person, and track your application status.
7. Prepare for EES: Be aware of the new Entry/Exit System being implemented from October 2025, which will digitally record your biometric data at borders.
8. Plan Your Trip Carefully: Create a detailed itinerary, book refundable accommodations, and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Final Expert Tips

• Don't rush: Quality of application matters more than speed
• Be thorough: Double-check every document and form field
• Stay informed: Keep updated on latest visa requirements and policy changes
• Seek help if needed: Consult professionals for complex cases
• Remain positive: With proper preparation, your approval chances are excellent

The Netherlands awaits with its iconic windmills, vibrant tulip fields, world-class museums, charming canals, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're planning to explore Amsterdam's artistic treasures, cycle through picturesque countryside, visit historic cities like Rotterdam and The Hague, or experience Dutch hospitality firsthand, your journey begins with a successful visa application.

By following this comprehensive guide and preparing your application meticulously, you're setting yourself up for visa success. Remember, the 83.2% approval rate for Indian applicants demonstrates that with proper documentation and honest presentation, your dream Dutch vacation is well within reach.

Safe travels, and enjoy your Netherlands adventure!

Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Netherlands government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Last Updated: December 2025

Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been compiled based on extensive research of official government sources, verified travel information, and real experiences of Indian travellers who have successfully obtained Netherlands visas.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.