Netherlands Visa Requirements 2026

Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa for the Netherlands. The short-stay visa costs €90 for adults, allows up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area, and is normally decided within 15 days. Apply to the Netherlands if it is your main destination.

Passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area; Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Recent photo that meets the Schengen specifications; Travel medical insurance valid across the Schengen area for the whole stay; Documents showing the purpose of the trip, where you will stay, that you can pay for the stay, and that you intend to return; Fingerprints, collected when you submit the application.

Schengen short-stay visa (type C): €90. Schengen visa, child aged 6 to 11: €45. Schengen visa, child under 6: No visa fee. National long-stay visa (type D): Set by the Netherlands; see the official visa site. The €90, €45 and free rates are the Schengen fees set by EU rules and are the same for every Schengen country. They are paid in rupees at the rate set by the consulate, and a visa application centre adds its own service charge.

Usually 15 days; this can be extended to up to 45 days if the consulate needs to examine the application further. You can apply from 6 months before the trip and no later than 15 days before it.

A visa cover letter is a formal document submitted with your visa application that explains the purpose of your visit, travel itinerary, financial means, accommodation details, and your intent to return home. While not always mandatory, a well-written cover letter helps visa officers understand your case quickly and can strengthen your application.

You can track your visa application status online through the official embassy or consulate website using your application reference number. Most visa application centres (such as VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International) also provide online tracking portals where you can check your application status in real time.

A single-entry visa allows you to enter the destination country only once during its validity period. A multiple-entry visa permits you to enter and exit the country multiple times. Multiple-entry visas are ideal for frequent travellers and are often valid for longer durations such as 1, 3, or 5 years.

If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the specific reason for the decision. You may be able to reapply by addressing the concerns mentioned, file an appeal if the country's regulations allow it, or request a reconsideration. It is advisable to seek professional advice before reapplying.

Yes, children typically require their own visa even if they are travelling with parents. In some cases, minors can be included on a parent's application. Additional documents such as birth certificates, parental consent letters from both parents, and school enrolment letters are usually required for minor applicants.

The 6-month passport validity rule requires your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the destination country. This is a common requirement for many countries worldwide. If your passport does not meet this requirement, your visa application may be denied even if all other documents are in order.