Use the checklist to apply for a visa
With a checklist for the application for a Schengen visa (visiting family and/or friends), make sure that you are well prepared to go through the procedure.
Requesting one Schengen visa for the Netherlands is a tricky procedure especially if you have to do it for the first time. This checklist is a reminder and ensures that you do all the important and mandatory documenten collect in advance.
For each document, the visa applicant provide the original and a copy. The documents must be submitted in Dutch, English, French or Spanish (or translated into one of these languages).
Please note: The passport or other travel document of the visa applicant must be valid for at least 3 months after leaving the Schengen area. The passport or other travel document must have at least 2 blank pages. The foreign guest's passport or other travel document may not be older than 10 years.
The application for a Schengen visa must always be submitted in person and you must bring all the documents described below with you:
- Passport: In addition to the original passport the visa applicant must also submit a copy of the holder page, previously issued visas and a copy of all incoming and outgoing stamps. Copies must also be made of the holder page of all previous passports with associated visas.
- Proof of legal residence: Proof of legal residence in the country of application. For example, a passport, a visa or a residence permit. A residence permit must be valid for at least 3 months after departure from the Schengen area.
- Passport photo: A passport photo that meets the Dutch conditions. This passport photo may not be older than 6 months and must show a clear resemblance.
- Proof of travel: Travel schedule (travel reservation to and from the Schengen area in the name of the visa applicant, not a ticket). Please note: only make a (flight) reservation that can be cancelled. To avoid unnecessary costs if the application is rejected.
- Proof of sufficient personal income: From visa applicant must be able to demonstrate that he/she can spend € 55 per day in the Netherlands. If the visa applicant has insufficient income, someone must be in the Netherlands guarantee.
- Proof of guarantee and/or private accommodation: This document must be signed by the person in the Netherlands who invites the visa applicant. The handtekening of the guarantor and/or accommodation provider legalized at the Dutch municipality where he/she is registered. If the visa applicant's family or friends do not provide private accommodation, the visa applicant must provide documents proving that he/she is visiting them. If applicable, for example proof showing the relationship with the person being visited. For example, a birth certificate or marriage certificate or proof of registered partnership.
- Proof of sufficient income guarantor: In the event of a guarantee, documentary evidence must be provided showing that the guarantor sufficient income such as a copy of his employment contract, the last three payslips or other proof of income from your accommodation provider and three most recent bank statements or salary slips.
- Proof of return to country of origin: Documents proving that the visa applicant returns after the trip to the country of origin. Examples are:
- A statement from the employer, employment contract or other data showing that the visa applicant has work in the country of origin.
- A document showing that training is being followed in the country of origin.
- A document showing that there are children who attend school in the country of origin.
- A document proving that the visa applicant has a home or other real estate in the country of origin.
- A document showing that the visa applicant takes care of persons in the country of origin.
- Proof of travel medical insurance: There must be a valid Travel Insurance in the name of the visa applicant (the policyholder may be the person inviting the foreign national). The insurance must be valid throughout the Schengen area and during the period of stay. For medical costs, at least 30.000 euros must be reimbursed. The insurance must cover medical costs, including hospital treatment, emergency treatment and repatriation (also in the event of death).
- Payment: Payment of the visa fee at the time of application. The read for the visa application must be paid in local currency. An amount may also be added for the services of the service agency designated by the embassy, such as VFS Global.
Also keep in mind the following:
- A visa application for the Netherlands can be submitted at the earliest 6 months and at the latest 15 calendar days before the start of the intended travel date. Start with the application at least one month before the intended departure date.
- De statutory decision period for a Schengen visa is a maximum of 15 days. The legal decision period starts on the day that the visa application has been submitted and paid. If more research is needed, the decision period can be extended to a maximum of 30 days.
- During the visa application process, the applicant will not be in possession of his or her passport.
- An application without the complete set of documents as mentioned above checklist, can lead to a rejection of a visa application.
- The competent authorities can always ask for additional supporting documents.
- In case of a rejection, the visa amount paid will not be refunded.
Download the official checklist here
Schengen visa checklist – visiting family or friends (Dutch)
Checklist application facilitating visa for family members of EU/EEA and Swiss nationals
Checklist Schengen visa – tourism (Dutch)
Checklist Schengen visa - business visit (Dutch)
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