Netherlands Transit Visa: What You Need to Know

Do Indians Need a Transit Visa for Amsterdam, Netherlands?

Indian citizens do need a Netherlands transit visa if they are transiting through the country. However, if you do not exit the airport in the Netherlands during your layover, you may not need a visa for transiting. That said, certain documents are still required:

Your passport: It must be issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after your transit date.
Onward destination ticket: A confirmed ticket for your next flight.
Visa for onward destination: If the country you are traveling to requires a visa, you must have that visa ready when transiting through the Netherlands.

Be sure to check these requirements before traveling to avoid any disruptions.

Indian citizens do require a Schengen visa if they plan to exit the transit area while in the Netherlands. However, there are some exemptions where Indians do not need a visa for transiting. These exemptions apply if you hold any of the following:

A residence permit for a Schengen country.
A valid residence permit for Cyprus or Ireland.
A valid Schengen visa in your passport.
You are an immediate family member of a national from the Netherlands, another EU member state, or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland.

These exemptions ensure smoother transit for travelers meeting these conditions.

Documents Required for Netherland Transit Visa

Schengen Visa Application Form

Ensure the form is completed and signed.

Passport and Travel Documents

Your passport or travel document must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.
Must have at least two empty visa pages.
Cannot be more than 10 years old.
Include copies of the personal details page, previously issued visas, all entry/exit stamps, and if applicable, these pages from any previous passport.

Additional Requirements for Minors

If the visa is for a minor travelling alone or with one parent, include:

An identity document for each parent with their signature.
A consent declaration from both parents allowing the minor to travel.
If applicable, a court judgement regarding parental responsibility.
If relevant, a declaration from the minor’s school consenting to his/her absence.

Proof of Legal Residence

Provide evidence of legal residence in the country from which you are applying, such as a passport, visa, or residence permit (valid for at least three months after departure from the Schengen area).

Work Permit

If applicable, include your work permit.

Photograph

One passport photo meeting Dutch passport requirements, taken within the last 6 months and clearly resembling the applicant.

Proof of Travel

Provide a flight itinerary to and from the Schengen area in your name. Ensure the reservation is cancelable.

Visa, Residence Permit, or Passport

Provide proof of a valid visa, residence permit, or passport for entering the next country after your visit to the Schengen area.

How to Apply for a Amsterdam Transit Visa?

If you do not qualify for the visa free transit in Netherlands, you must have to apply for a Netherlands Schengen visa. Following are the process for it:

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type: First, identify the purpose of your visit to choose the correct visa category. While the VFS Global staff can assist you through the application process, they cannot advise on visa category selection. The final decision on your visa, including processing time, is made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents: Complete the online application form, print it, and sign it. Include your name, as well as your father’s and spouse’s surnames if applicable. Make sure to gather all the necessary documents listed in the Netherlands transit visa checklist specific to your visa category. Missing documents can delay or lead to the rejection of your application. Netherlands transit visa checklist can be downloaded from the VFS Global website.
Step 3: Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at one of the VFS Global Visa Application Centres located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Jalandhar, Ahmedabad, or Hyderabad. You must submit your application in person, including babies and children. Each group member must book an individual appointment.
Step 4: Attend Your Visa Appointment: At your scheduled appointment, submit your application and all required documents. Pay the necessary visa and service fees. During this appointment, your biometrics (fingerprints and a digital photo) will also be collected.
Step 5: Track Your Application: Stay updated on the progress of your visa application by opting for email updates or SMS notifications for an additional fee. You can also track your application online using the reference number provided on your receipt along with your last name.
Step 6: Collect Your Passport: Once your visa application decision has been made, you can collect your passport and other documents from the Visa Application Centre. You can either collect them in person or have them returned to you by courier. If collecting in person, bring the original receipt and a valid photo ID. If someone else is collecting on your behalf, they will need a letter of authorization, the original receipt, and a copy of your ID.

Netherlands Transit Visa Fees

Children under 6 years: Free
Children aged 6 to 11 years: Euro 45
Adults and children aged 12 and over: Euro 90

Fee Waivers:

Netherlands transit visa fees are waived for the following groups:

Children under 6 years.
School pupils, students, postgraduate students, and accompanying teachers travelling for study or educational training purposes.
Researchers travelling to carry out scientific research or attend scientific seminars or conferences.
Representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 or under participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural, or educational events organised by non-profit organisations.

Netherlands Transit Visa Processing Time

The typical processing time for a Netherlands transit visa is 15 calendar days. However, if additional scrutiny is required, the process can extend to 30 days, and in cases where further documentation is necessary, it may take up to 45 days.

This timeline helps you plan when to apply and gives a clear expectation of the Netherlands transit visa processing times.

You can apply for a Netherlands transit visa as early as six months before your planned travel date, and up to nine months in advance if you are a seafarer. It is advised to submit your application at least 15 working days prior to your intended travel date to allow for timely processing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the Netherlands transit visa requirements is crucial for a smooth journey through Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. For many travelers, especially those from non-Schengen countries, obtaining an airport transit visa Netherlands is a necessary step. If you're an Indian passport holder, it’s important to confirm whether you need an Amsterdam transit visa for Indian citizens before traveling. By being aware of these visa regulations, you can confidently plan your transit through Amsterdam without any hassles.

FAQs

Do I need to show proof of onward travel for a Netherlands transit visa?

Yes, proof of onward travel is typically required when applying for a Netherlands transit visa for Indians. This includes a flight itinerary showing your planned departure from the Netherlands to your final destination.

Can I extend my Netherlands transit visa?

No, a Netherlands transit visa for Indians cannot be extended. This visa is specifically for a short period to allow travel through an airport's international transit area en route to another destination.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a Netherlands transit day visa?

Yes, having travel insurance is mandatory for obtaining a Netherlands transit visa for Indians. The insurance should cover at least €30,000 and be valid throughout the Schengen area for the duration of your transit.

Can I leave the airport with a Netherlands transit visa?

No, a Netherlands transit visa does not permit you to leave the airport. It is only valid for staying in the international transit area until your next flight.

Can I travel within the Schengen area with a Netherlands transit visa?

No, a Netherlands transit visa does not allow travel within the Schengen area. It is solely for transiting through the international zone of an airport in the Netherlands to a non-Schengen destination.

Netherlands Transit Visa: Do You Require One in Amsterdam?

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