Planning to Visit the Netherlands? Know the New Visa Guidelines for Indians

July 10, 2025 Admin

Known for its tulip fields, canals and windmills, the Netherlands is a beautiful European country. The colourful countryside or bustling cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam have been dream places to visit for Indians. It is important to know the latest visa rules if you are planning a trip to the Netherlands soon. Certain updates have been made in the visa requirements for Indian cities by the Dutch government. You can plan your holiday without any stress by understanding the new visa guidelines in this blog.

Why You Need a Visa

Indians shall have to secure a Schengen visa for travelling to the Netherlands. You won’t need to apply for a separate Netherlands visa for Indians since the Netherlands is a part of the Schengen area. You can also visit other European countries within the Schengen area with the same visa. With a Schengen visa, you can stay up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. Meant for holidays, family visits or business trips, it’s a short-term visa. Here’s more information on Schengen visas including the recent updates.

What Has Changed Recently

There have been a few changes in the visa process for Indian travellers made by the Dutch authorities recently. The aim is to make the process more secure and smooth with these updates. While the overall process is still straightforward if you follow the steps carefully, some rules have been made stricter to avoid misuse.

Due to a recent major update, there are now limited visa appointment slots during the peak seasons. To prove your purpose of travel and financial stability, you might have to submit more documents. Travel insurance details are also being checked more strictly by the Dutch authorities. The key to getting your visa approved on time is to have all your paperwork ready.

Where to Apply

The Netherlands Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India is where you’ll have to apply in India. Dutch visa applications in India are handled by VFS Global. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad have VFS Global centres.

Especially if you plan to travel during the holidays or summer, book your appointment well in advance. Plan at least two to three months ahead since the appointment dates may get booked quickly.

Documents You Need

you need to submit certain documents to apply for a Schengen tourist visa that allows you to visit the Netherlands as well. These include:

A passport with at least two blank pages with a validity of three months from the date of your return.
A Schengen visa application form duly filled in by you.
Two recent passport-size photos that adhere to the Schengen photo rules.
Proof of travel insurance with a minimum 30,000 Euros coverage.
Confirmed return flight tickets.
An invitation letter if staying with friends or family or hotel booking confirmation.
Bank statements for the last three months as proof of financial means.
A cover letter with a clear explanation of your travel plan and purpose.
Proof of employment or business, like salary slips or company registration.

See to it that you submit clear documents that are up to date. Missing or unclear papers can cause delays or even outright rejection. You may seek help from experts providing international visa services.

Biometrics Requirement

Biometrics being made mandatory is an important update. You must give your fingerprints and photo when you apply for a Schengen visa. The validity of your data is five years. So, if you have applied for a Schengen visa in the last five years and shared your biometrics, you won’t need to submit them again. However, before your appointment, always confirm this with VFS.

Processing Time and Fees

For a Schengen visa, the processing time is usually 15 working days from the date of your appointment. It can, however, take longer during busy seasons. To avoid any last-minute trouble, it’s wise to apply early.

For a Schengen short-stay visa, the visa fee is around 80 Euros for adults. For children between 6 and 12, it’s around 40 Euros. For handling your application, VFS Global will also charge a service fee.

What is Checked During Processing

The embassy needs to be sure that you’re a genuine visitor. They want to confirm that you have the money to fund your stay during your visit to the Netherlands. They also check whether you possess valid travel insurance and if you have honest intentions to return to India. If your documents raise doubts, there will be questions or even a rejection.

Tips to Avoid Rejection

If you follow all the rules, getting a Schengen visa can be simple. You can avoid rejections with these handy tips.

See to it that your form has no mistakes. So, double-check the spellings and the details you enter.
Submit no fake or false documents.
Provide suitable proof that you have enough funds to cover your trip like bank statements of the last three months.
Book your flight tickets and hotels in advance and if possible, choose only refundable options.
Make sure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies and that it’s valid for the entire trip.

Also read: Top 5 Visa-Free Countries For Indians: Get Ready For Your Trip In 2025

Visa for Family or Friends

You’ll still need a tourist visa even if you are visiting family or friends in the Netherlands. An invitation letter from the host is mandatory. The letter must contain their address, how you are related and how long you shall stay. Your host may also be asked to provide proof of residency status and income sometimes.

Final Checklist

Double-check these points before you submit your application.

Are all your documents in the right order?
Did you sign the application form?
Do your photos adhere to Schengen rules?
Is your travel insurance valid and does it cover the required amount?
Did you book your appointment early enough?

Final Words

It’s wonderful travelling to the Netherlands. The focus of the new visa guidelines for Indians is on proper documentation and early planning. Travel Saga Tourism has the necessary expertise to help you with the entire process of securing a Schengen visa. They’ll be only too happy to help you. That said, you’ll have no trouble getting your visa approved if you follow the steps. So, get your papers in order and experience the charming Netherlands.