Netherlands Visitor Visa (Family & Friends Visit)
The Netherlands Visitor Visa is a Schengen short-stay visa issued to individuals travelling to the Netherlands to visit relatives or friends. It permits a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This category typically relies on an invitation from the host in the Netherlands, which can strengthen the application, particularly where the host is providing financial sponsorship for the trip. Family members of an EU, EEA, or Swiss national may instead be eligible for Schengen visa facilitation — a special free-of-charge procedure. As with every Netherlands Visa category, the final decision on approval rests solely with the Dutch embassy or consulate.
Eligibility
You may apply for a Netherlands Visitor Visa if:
- You intend to visit a relative or friend residing in the Netherlands.
- Your host can provide an invitation letter confirming the visit and their relationship to you.
- Your stay will not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
- You can demonstrate sufficient financial means for your stay, either independently or through your host’s sponsorship.
- You intend to return to your home country once the visit concludes.
If you are a family member of an EU, EEA, or Swiss national, check whether you qualify for Schengen visa facilitation, which is a separate, fee-free procedure.
Government Visa Fees
| Category | Fee |
| Adults (Schengen Short-Stay Visa) | €80 |
| Children aged 6–12 | €40 |
| Children under 6 | Free |
| Family members eligible for Schengen visa facilitation (family of an EU/EEA/Swiss national) | Free (a service fee may still apply) |
An additional service fee may apply if the application is processed through an external visa application centre. All government fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is refused or the application withdrawn.
Processing Time
Standard Schengen visitor visa applications are generally decided within 15 calendar days of a complete submission, extending to 30 or, in exceptional cases, 60 days if further verification of the host’s invitation or relationship is required. Applications can be submitted up to six months before travel, and applicants are advised to book an appointment well in advance through the relevant embassy, consulate, or visa application centre.
Required Documents Checklist
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
A Netherlands Visitor Visa (Family & Friends Visit) application requires accurate documentation, a valid invitation letter from your host in the Netherlands, proof of financial means, and compliance with the requirements of the Dutch authorities and the Schengen visa regulations. Missing or incorrect documents may lead to delays or visa refusal. Shivansh Consultants provides Documentation Support, Eligibility Assessment, and a thorough Application Review to help you submit a complete and accurate application.
Our experienced visa consultants offer Personalized Guidance, a Transparent Process, and End-to-End Assistance—from document preparation to application submission support. We help simplify your Netherlands Visitor Visa application while ensuring it meets the latest requirements. Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant Dutch visa authorities.