Travelling to Europe is a dream for many Indians, and for good reason—cobblestone streets, historic castles, stunning canals, and diverse cultures await just a short flight away once you have the right visa. If your next European adventure begins in the Netherlands—or if it’s your main destination—you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa.
The process might seem overwhelming at first glance, but don’t worry. This guide will walk you through every step of applying for a Netherlands Schengen visa from India, explaining the requirements, documents, fees, and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to make your visa journey smooth and stress-free.
What is a Schengen Visa and Why Apply Through the Netherlands?
A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely across 29 European countries (as of 2025) that are part of the Schengen Area. With one visa, you can hop between Amsterdam, Paris, Berlin, Rome, or Prague without worrying about border checks.
But here’s the catch: you must apply through the country that is either:
- Your main destination (where you’ll spend most days), or
- Your first port of entry (if you’ll spend equal time in multiple countries).
So, if you plan to spend most of your holiday in the Netherlands, or if Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is your entry point into Europe, you’ll need to apply for a Netherlands Schengen visa.
Step 1: Check If You Need a Schengen Visa
Not every traveller requires a Schengen visa, but Indian passport holders do. Before you begin your application, confirm your travel purpose:
- Tourism (holiday, sightseeing, family visit)
- Business (meetings, conferences, events)
- Visiting relatives or friends
- Seafaring crew or other special categories
Depending on your purpose, the required documents and checklist may vary.
Step 2: Where to Apply in India
The Netherlands processes visa applications in India through VFS Global, a service partner that manages submissions, appointments, and tracking.
You can submit your application at one of the following VFS centres in India:
- Ahmedabad
- Bangalore
- Chandigarh
- Chennai
- Cochin
- Hyderabad
- Jalandhar
- Kolkata
- Lucknow
- Mumbai
- Pune
- New Delhi
Good to know: Residents of Afghanistan and Bhutan can also apply for a Netherlands Schengen visa through these VFS centres in India.
Step 3: Gather the Required Documents
This is the step where most applicants feel overwhelmed. The good news? If you follow the checklist carefully, you’ll be fine. Here’s a breakdown:
Mandatory Documents for All Applicants
- Schengen Visa Application Form
- Complete online and sign.
- Make sure you use the unique code provided to avoid processing errors.
- Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure.
- Should have at least two blank pages.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photos
- As per Schengen photo specifications.
- Travel Insurance
- Minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Should cover medical emergencies, accidents, and repatriation.
- Flight Itinerary & Proof of Accommodation
- Round-trip booking.
- Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter.
- Proof of Funds
- Bank statements from the last three to six months.
- Salary slips or income tax returns.
- Cover Letter
- Explaining your purpose of travel, duration of stay, and planned itinerary.
Special Case: Family of EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
If you’re travelling to join or visit a family member who is an EU/EEA or Swiss national, you may qualify for free visa facilitation.
Tip: Always cross-check the official VFS Global checklist for your category (tourist, business, family, etc.) before final submission.
Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment
You cannot walk into a VFS centre without an appointment. Use the VFS Global website to:
- Pick your preferred centre and date.
- Book your biometric appointment.
- Print your appointment confirmation.
When to Apply
- Earliest: 6 months before travel (9 months for seafarers).
- Latest: 45 days before departure.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the last month. Slots fill quickly, especially before holiday seasons. Apply at least 2–3 months before your trip.
Step 5: Attend Your Appointment
On the appointment day, arrive early at the VFS centre with your documents neatly organised.
What Happens at VFS?
- Submit your application, documents, and passport.
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints + photo) if applying for the first time or if your previous data is over 5 years old.
- Pay visa fees and service charges.
- Answer simple questions about your trip (purpose, duration, where you’ll stay).
- Receive a tracking reference number to check your application status online.
If you’re 12 years or older, biometrics are mandatory (unless exempt under certain conditions).
Step 6: Pay the Visa Fees
Visa fees can vary depending on your category, but on average:
- Adults: €80 (approx. ₹7,500)
- Children (6–12 years): €40 (approx. ₹3,700)
- Children under 6 years: Free
- Family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: Free
VFS also charges a service fee, and you may opt for additional paid services like courier delivery, SMS updates, or premium lounge.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
Once submitted, your application is sent to the Dutch Embassy in New Delhi or the Consulate-General in Mumbai for processing.
Processing Time
- Standard: 15–30 working days.
- Maximum: 45 days (in rare cases).
You’ll receive email or SMS updates, and you can track your application online using your VFS reference number.
Step 8: Collect Your Passport
Once processed, you can either:
- Collect your passport in person at VFS, or
- Have it couriered to your address (extra fee).
If collecting in person:
- Bring a valid government ID and proof of payment.
- If someone else is collecting, they must carry an authorisation letter signed by you plus their own ID.
Check Your Visa Carefully
Before celebrating, check:
- Your name spelling
- Visa validity dates
- Number of entries (single, double, or multiple)
Errors can cause problems at immigration or even boarding denial. If you spot a mistake, contact the Dutch Embassy in New Delhi immediately.
What If Your Visa Is Refused?
Sometimes, despite best efforts, applications get refused. Don’t panic—you’ll receive a refusal letter with reasons. Common causes include:
- Insufficient proof of funds
- Incomplete documentation
- Lack of travel insurance
- Doubts about return to India
You can appeal the decision by following the instructions in the refusal letter. Alternatively, correct the errors and reapply.
Step 9: Get Ready for Your Trip
Once your visa is in hand, the fun begins! But remember:
- A Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
- Always carry copies of your documents (return ticket, insurance, accommodation proof) as border officers may request them.
- Respect the visa conditions—overstaying can affect future applications.
Expert Tips for a Smooth Netherlands Schengen Visa Application
- Apply Early – Beat peak travel rush and avoid last-minute stress.
- Be Honest – Provide accurate details in your form and during your interview.
- Double-Check Documents – Small errors (like mismatched dates) can lead to rejection.
- Keep Photocopies – Always keep extra copies of your passport, insurance, and bookings.
- Plan Realistically – A well-structured itinerary improves your approval chances.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Netherlands Schengen visa from India is a structured process, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be intimidating. From gathering documents and booking your VFS appointment to tracking your passport and preparing for the trip, every step has a clear checklist.
Think of it as the first stage of your journey—the gateway to Amsterdam’s canals, tulip fields, and windmills, as well as the rest of Europe. With a valid Schengen visa, the continent is yours to explore.
So start early, stay organised, and soon you’ll be boarding your flight to the Netherlands with confidence and excitement.
