To visit the Netherlands, it is necessary to hold a short-stay entry visa, also called a Schengen visa, or a long-stay visa to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days.
The Schengen or short-stay visa allows a stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. In some cases, people meeting certain conditions may be eligible for a more flexible visa procedure.
The long-stay visa, or MVV visa sticker, is a vignette placed in the passport allowing entry to the Netherlands in order to collect a residence permit for work, studies or family reunification. The application is generally initiated by a Dutch sponsor with the Dutch immigration services (IND).
Depending on the country where the visa application is submitted, the application may be made either directly through the Netherlands embassy in the country of residence, or through a service provider working in partnership with the Dutch authorities to receive visa applicants and collect their files.
If a visa is needed to visit a family member in the Netherlands urgently, that family member can request an emergency visa for you.
Visa applicants must submit their application in person. This rule also applies to babies and children.
The visa application may be made up to 6 months before travel and no later than 45 days before departure.