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Netherlands Tourist Visa Process for Indians

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January 22, 2026

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Netherlands Tourist Visa Process for Indians (2026 Complete Guide)

If you are an Indian passport holder planning to explore Europe, the Netherlands Tourist Visa is one of the most popular Schengen visas to apply for. Famous for Amsterdam’s canals, tulip fields, windmills, museums, and vibrant culture, the Netherlands attracts thousands of Indian tourists every year.

This explains the Netherlands tourist visa process for Indians, including eligibility, visa types, documents, fees, appointment booking, application steps, interview tips, common rejection reasons, and FAQs.


1. What is a Netherlands Tourist Visa?

A Netherlands Tourist Visa is a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) that allows Indian travelers to visit the Netherlands for tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends or family, or short leisure trips.

Since the Netherlands is part of the Schengen Area, this visa also allows travel to 29 Schengen countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, and more, provided the Netherlands is your main destination.

To apply visa contact us: here


2. Do Indians Need a Visa for the Netherlands?

Yes. Indian passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa before traveling to the Netherlands. Visa-free entry is not available for Indian citizens.


3. Types of Netherlands Tourist Visas for Indians

1. Single Entry Tourist Visa

  • Enter the Schengen Area once

  • Suitable for short trips

2. Double Entry Tourist Visa

  • Enter twice within visa validity

3. Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

  • Multiple visits during visa validity

  • Usually issued to frequent travelers


4. Netherlands Tourist Visa Validity & Stay Duration

  • Maximum stay: 90 days

  • Validity: Up to 180 days

  • Visa type: Short-stay Schengen (Type C)

Important: You cannot stay more than 90 days within any 180-day period.


5. Eligibility Criteria for Indians

You are eligible to apply if:

  • You hold a valid Indian passport

  • Purpose of travel is tourism

  • You can prove sufficient funds

  • You have strong ties to India

  • You have confirmed travel plans


6. Netherlands Tourist Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Mandatory Documents Checklist

1. Passport

  • Valid for at least 3 months after return

  • Minimum 2 blank pages

  • Issued within last 10 years

2. Visa Application Form

  • Fully completed and signed

3. Passport Size Photographs

  • 2 recent photos

  • White background

  • Schengen photo specifications

4. Cover Letter

  • Explaining travel purpose

  • Travel dates

  • Funding details

  • Return plan

You can download sample of Cover letter from here.

5. Flight Reservation

  • Confirmed or dummy ticket

6. Accommodation Proof

  • Hotel booking / Airbnb

  • Invitation letter if staying with family or friends

7. Travel Insurance

  • Minimum coverage of €30,000

  • Valid across Schengen countries

8. Financial Proof

  • Bank statements (last 6 months)

  • ITR (last 2–3 years recommended)

9. Employment Proof

  • Salary slips (last 3 months)

  • Leave approval letter

  • Company ID

10. Business Owner / Self-Employed

  • GST registration

  • Business bank statements

  • Company ITR

11. Student

  • Bonafide certificate

  • NOC from institution


7. Financial Requirements for Netherlands Tourist Visa

Applicants must show sufficient funds:

  • €55–70 per day (recommended)

  • All other expense
  • For 10 days: approx ₹5,00,000–₹6,00,000

Accepted financial proofs:

  • Savings account statements

  • Fixed deposits

  • Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

Download Netherlands tourist visa checklist for free. – Download


8. Travel Insurance Requirements

Your travel insurance must:

  • Cover medical emergencies

  • Cover repatriation

  • Be valid throughout Schengen

  • Minimum coverage €30,000


9. Step-by-Step Netherlands Tourist Visa Application Process

Step 1: Determine Visa Type

Apply for Short-Stay Schengen Tourist Visa

Step 2: Fill Application Form

Complete online or offline Schengen visa form

Step 3: Book VFS Appointment

Schedule appointment at VFS Global Netherlands

Step 4: Prepare Documents

Arrange all documents in proper order

Step 5: Visit VFS Center

  • Submit application

  • Biometrics (fingerprints & photo)

Step 6: Pay Visa Fees

Fees paid at VFS center

Step 7: Track Application

Track online using reference number


10. How to Book VFS Appointment for Netherlands Visa

You can book your appointment through VFS Global India:

  • Choose visa category

  • Select nearest center

  • Pick date and time

VFS centers are available in:

  • New Delhi

  • Mumbai

  • Bengaluru

  • Chennai

  • Hyderabad

  • Kolkata

  • Ahmedabad

  • Pune


11. Netherlands Visa Fees for Indians (2026)

As per the latest Schengen regulations, the Netherlands (Schengen) tourist visa fee for adults is €90.

Category

Fee

Adult (12 years and above)

€90 (~₹8,100–₹8,300)

Children (6–11 years)

€45

Children below 6 years

Free

VFS Service Fee

₹1,500–₹2,000

Important Notes:

  • Embassy/consulate fees are fixed in euros and converted to INR at current exchange rates

  • Visa fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is refused

  • VFS service charges are paid separately

––––|—–|

| Adult | €90 (~₹9100–₹9,300) |

| Children (6–12) | €40 |

| Children below 6 | Free |

| VFS Service Fee | ₹1,500–₹2,000 |

Note: Fees are non-refundable.


12. Netherlands Tourist Visa Processing Time

  • Normal processing: 10–15 working days

  • Peak season: Up to 30 days

Apply at least 30–45 days before travel.


13. Cover Letter & Itinerary Tips

Cover Letter Tips

  • Clear travel purpose

  • Day-wise itinerary

  • Funding explanation

  • Return commitment

Download sample of cover letter to use in your visa application – Download

Itinerary Tips

  • Amsterdam (3 days)

  • Rotterdam (2 days)

  • The Hague (2 days)

  • Optional Belgium/Germany day trip

Download sample of travel itinerary to use in your visa application – Download


14. Biometrics & Interview Process

  • Biometrics mandatory

  • Interview usually not required

  • Visa officer may call for clarification

Biometrics valid for 5 years.


15. Common Reasons for Netherlands Tourist Visa Rejection

  • Insufficient funds

  • Weak travel history

  • Poor cover letter

  • Unclear itinerary

  • Doubtful intention to return


16. How to Avoid Visa Rejection

  • Submit complete documents

  • Show strong ties to India

  • Maintain bank balance

  • Write a professional cover letter


17. After Visa Approval – Important Travel Tips

  • Carry all documents while traveling

  • Respect 90/180 rule

  • Do not overstay


18. FAQs – Netherlands Tourist Visa for Indians

Is Netherlands visa easy for Indians?

Yes, with proper documentation and financial proof.

Can I visit other countries with Netherlands visa?

Yes, all Schengen countries.

Can I extend my tourist visa?

Extensions are rarely granted.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes, mandatory.


Conclusion

The Netherlands Tourist Visa for Indians is straightforward if you follow the correct process and submit strong documentation. With proper planning, a clear itinerary, and sufficient financial proof, your chances of approval are high.

 

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