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Netherlands Visa for Indians: Types, Official Portal & Documents (2026)

The Netherlands is a Schengen country. Indian passport holders apply for a Schengen short-stay visa; the Dutch government's Netherlands Worldwide site explains the India process, appointments and checklists.

Official sources last checked

For Indian passport holders

Embassy / consular visaSchengen visa required before travel

Indian passport holders need a Schengen short-stay visa for Netherlands. Apply through the Netherlands mission in India or its appointed visa centre, giving fingerprints in person.

Source: official government page(official site, opens in a new tab)

Ways to enter Netherlands

  • Embassy visa

    Schengen short-stay visa (type C)

    Visa for tourism, family visits or business up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area. Apply in person with biometrics at the consulate or its visa application centre.

    Official page(official site, opens in a new tab)

Official sources

Government websites — the only authoritative place for current rules and fees. Beware of look-alike sites.

Typical documents

Commonly requested items. The official checklist for your visa category always takes priority.

  • Completed Schengen visa application form, signed
  • Passport issued within the last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond departure, with 2 blank pages
  • Recent photos meeting ICAO specifications
  • Travel medical insurance covering the whole Schengen stay (minimum EUR 30,000 cover)
  • Flight reservation and hotel bookings or invitation
  • Bank statements, salary slips or ITRs showing sufficient funds
  • Employment letter/leave approval or proof of business/studies
Build a printable document checklist

Processing time and fees

Processing

Under the EU Visa Code, a decision is normally made within 15 calendar days of a complete application; it can take longer in individual cases. Book appointments early in peak season.

Government fees

The Schengen visa fee is harmonised across member states and payable in INR plus a visa centre service charge; the current amount is listed on the consulate's website.

Providers that cover Netherlands

Sample prices

17 listed providers file Netherlands tourist applications for Indian passports. Totals below are illustrative sample figures (service + estimated government fee), not quotes. You can also apply yourself on the official portal above.

Compare all 17 providers

Tips before you apply

  • Apply to the country of your main destination (longest stay), or first entry if stays are equal.
  • Book the appointment early – summer and December slots go fast.
  • Keep your itinerary consistent across flights, hotels and insurance.
  • Your first entry should normally be through the country that issued the visa if it is your main destination.
  • Do not pay agents who promise 'guaranteed' approval – decisions are only made by the consulate.

Netherlands visa FAQ for Indians

Do Indians need a visa for Netherlands?
Yes. Indian passport holders need a Schengen short-stay (type C) visa, applied for at the Netherlands embassy/consulate or its appointed visa application centre in India.
How early should I apply?
Under the EU Visa Code you can apply up to six months before travel and should apply at least 15 days before. Earlier is better in peak season because appointments fill up.
How long does a Schengen visa take?
Consulates normally decide within 15 calendar days, which can be extended (up to 45 days in individual cases). Check the consulate's current processing note.
Which country should I apply to if I visit several Schengen states?
Apply to the country where you will spend the most days; if equal, the country you enter first.
What is the EES?
The EU Entry/Exit System registers non-EU travellers' fingerprints and facial image at Schengen external borders on first entry. Expect biometric registration at the border.
VisaScout

VisaScout helps travellers discover and compare visa providers — prices, processing times, coverage and requirements — before choosing where to apply. Applications always happen on the provider's own website or at official government channels.