The Netherlands — land of windmills, tulip fields, canals, and world-class museums — is a perennial favourite on every Indian traveller’s European bucket list. Amsterdam’s canal houses, the Van Gogh Museum, Keukenhof gardens in spring, and the vibrant Jordaan neighbourhood offer a quintessentially European experience. As a Schengen Area founder nation, getting a Netherlands visa for Indians means applying for a Schengen visa. Here’s your complete 2026 guide.
Do Indians Need a Visa for the Netherlands?
Yes, Indian passport holders require a Schengen visa to enter the Netherlands. The Netherlands was one of the founding signatories of the Schengen Agreement. A Dutch Schengen C-visa allows up to 90 days across all 27 Schengen countries.
Netherlands Visa Fees 2026
| Applicant | Fee | Approx. INR |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (12+) | €90 | ~₹8,100 |
| Children 6–12 | €45 | ~₹4,050 |
| Children under 6 | Free | ₹0 |
Documents Required
- ✅ Valid passport — 3+ months beyond stay, 2 blank pages
- ✅ Completed Schengen visa form
- ✅ 2 passport photos (35×45mm, white background)
- ✅ Return flight booking
- ✅ Hotel bookings for all nights
- ✅ Travel insurance — €30,000 min coverage, all Schengen
- ✅ Bank statements — 3–6 months, min €50/day of stay
- ✅ Employment letter, salary slips, leave approval
- ✅ ITR last 2 years
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Netherlands visa applications in India are via VFS Global (authorised by the Dutch Embassy)
- Book appointment at VFS Global in your city
- Prepare documents and fill Schengen application form
- Attend biometric appointment, submit documents
- Pay €90 + VFS charges (~₹1,800)
- Standard processing: 15 days; apply 6–8 weeks before travel
Top Attractions in the Netherlands
- 🌷 Keukenhof Gardens — 7 million tulips in bloom (March–May only)
- 🎨 Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum — Amsterdam’s world-class art institutions
- 🏘️ Canal Ring (Grachtengordel) — UNESCO 17th-century canal belt, Amsterdam
- 🧀 Gouda & Edam — traditional Dutch cheese towns, wonderful day trips
- ⚓ Rotterdam — futuristic architecture, Cube Houses, Europe’s largest port
FAQs
How much does Netherlands Schengen visa cost?
€90 (~₹8,100) for adults plus VFS charges of ~₹1,800.
How long does processing take?
15 calendar days standard. Apply 6–8 weeks before travel.
When is the best time to visit the Netherlands?
Mid-March to mid-May for tulips. June–August for warm weather. December for Christmas markets.
Is Amsterdam vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, Amsterdam has excellent vegetarian and vegan restaurant options across the city.
Can I extend my Netherlands Schengen visa?
Schengen visas are rarely extended. Apply for the correct duration from the start based on your itinerary.
Is there a direct flight from India to Netherlands?
Yes, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Amsterdam Schiphol. Flight time is approximately 9 hours.
What currency does the Netherlands use?
Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted. ATMs are plentiful in Amsterdam and all major cities.
🌍 Ready to Apply?