Europe – Netherlands Visa – Transit

1. What type of visa is required for transit through the Netherlands?


A transit visa, also known as an airport transit visa (ATV) or a short-stay Schengen visa, is required for transiting through the Netherlands. This type of visa allows the holder to travel through one or more Schengen countries on their way to a non-Schengen destination. It is valid for a maximum of 5 days and cannot be extended or converted into another type of visa.

2. Can I apply for a transit visa online or do I need to visit the embassy in person?


It is not possible to apply for a transit visa online. You will need to visit the embassy or consulate of the country you are transiting through in person to apply for a transit visa.

3. How long is the processing time for a Netherlands transit visa?


The processing time for a Netherlands transit visa can vary, but it typically takes around 2-15 days. However, it may take longer in some cases, especially if there are additional documents or information required. It is recommended to apply for a transit visa at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date to allow for any potential delays.

4. Is a transit visa required if I am only changing flights at a Dutch airport and not leaving the airport?

Yes, for most nationalities a transit visa is not required if you are only changing flights at a Dutch airport and not leaving the airport. However, it is always best to check with your airline or the Dutch embassy in your country to verify whether you need a transit visa or not.

5. Do I need to show proof of onward travel when applying for a transit visa for the Netherlands?

Yes, you may be asked to provide proof of onward travel when applying for a transit visa for the Netherlands. This can include a confirmed flight ticket or other transportation tickets showing your scheduled departure from the Netherlands within the validity of your visa.

If you are traveling by land, you may be asked to provide proof of your continued journey, such as train or bus tickets, to your final destination outside of the Netherlands.

It is important to check with the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country to determine the specific requirements and documents needed for your transit visa application.

6. How much does it cost to obtain a transit visa for the Netherlands?


The cost of a transit visa for the Netherlands varies depending on your nationality and type of visa. As of 2021, the fee for a single-entry transit visa is €80 for adults and €40 for children under the age of 12. The fee for a multiple-entry transit visa is €140. However, certain categories of travelers may be exempt from the visa fee, such as students, participants in cultural or sports events, and family members of EU/EEA citizens. It is best to check with your nearest Dutch embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding visa fees.

7. Is there any specific validity period for a Netherlands transit visa?


The validity period of a Netherlands transit visa depends on the individual circumstances of the applicant and the length of their intended transit stay. Generally, it can range from a few days to a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. It is recommended to apply for the transit visa at least 15 days before your planned travel date. The validity of the visa will be stated on the visa sticker or in the accompanying letter.

8. Can I use my Schengen visa as a transit visa for the Netherlands?

No, a Schengen visa cannot be used as a transit visa for the Netherlands. You will need to apply for a separate airport transit visa if you are transiting through the Netherlands without leaving the airport. If you are planning to visit the Netherlands during your travels, you can use your Schengen visa as long as it is still valid and allows for multiple entries.

9. Are there any additional documents required besides the application form for a Netherlands transit visa?

In addition to the completed visa application form, you will also need to submit:

– A valid passport or travel document
– Proof of sufficient funds for your stay in the Netherlands (e.g. bank statements)
– Proof of onward travel (such as a flight or train ticket to your final destination)
– Travel itinerary including any accommodations booked
– Evidence of ties to your home country (such as employment, property ownership, family ties)
– Medical insurance for the duration of your transit through the Netherlands
– If applicable, a Schengen visa or residence permit for your final destination

It is always recommended to check with the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and specific requirements for a transit visa.

10. What is the maximum duration of stay allowed with a Netherlands transit visa?

The maximum duration of stay allowed with a Netherlands transit visa is 5 days. However, the length of stay may vary depending on the specific details of your travel itinerary and the discretion of the immigration officer. It is important to check the validity and conditions of your transit visa before your trip to avoid any issues at the border.

11. Can I apply for a combination tourist and transit visa for the Netherlands?


Yes, it is possible to apply for a combination tourist and transit visa for the Netherlands. This type of visa would allow you to visit the Netherlands as a tourist while also transiting through the country on your way to another destination. However, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements for both types of visas and provide all necessary documentation for your application. It is recommended that you consult with the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence for more information and specific application requirements.

12. Do children also require their own separate transit visas when traveling through the Netherlands?


Yes, children also require their own separate transit visas when traveling through the Netherlands, unless they are exempt. Children under the age of 18 who are accompanying their parent or legal guardian may be included on their visa application as dependents and do not need a separate visa. However, each child over the age of 18 must apply for their own visa.

13. Is it possible to extend or renew a Netherlands Transit Visa while I am in the country?

It is not possible to extend or renew a Netherlands Transit Visa while you are in the country. You will need to apply for a new transit visa if you want to stay longer in the Netherlands during your transit. It is recommended that you plan your travel and apply for a visa with enough time before your intended date of travel to avoid any issues or delays.

14. What are some common reasons why a Netherlands Transit Visa application may be rejected?


1. Insufficient or incorrect documentation: Failure to provide all the required documents or providing incomplete or incorrect information can lead to a rejection of the application.

2. Lack of proof of travel itinerary: Sometimes applicants fail to present a detailed travel itinerary including flight bookings, accommodation reservations, and transportation plans. This can raise doubts about the purpose of the trip and the applicant’s intentions.

3. Inadequate financial means: The Dutch immigration authorities require applicants to have sufficient funds to support their stay in the Netherlands. If an applicant cannot prove that they have enough money for their trip, their visa application may be rejected.

4. Previous immigration violations: Applicants with a history of overstaying or violating the terms of a previous visa are likely to have their transit visa application rejected.

5. Criminal record: A criminal background check is part of the Visa requirements in the Netherlands. If an applicant has a criminal record or is deemed a security threat, their visa application may be denied.

6. Inaccurate purpose of transit: If an applicant fails to provide a convincing reason for transiting through the Netherlands on their way to another destination, their application may be rejected.

7. Inability to prove strong ties with home country: Applicants must demonstrate strong ties to their home country, such as family, employment, property ownership, etc., that would motivate them to return after their transit through the Netherlands. Failure to provide evidence of these ties can result in a rejection.

8.Avoiding border control measures: Sometimes individuals apply for a Netherlands Transit Visa with the intention of avoiding authorities at border control checkpoints or seeking asylum in another country. This can lead to an immediate rejection of their visa application.

9.Missing validity period: Transit visas are only valid for specific periods indicated by travellers on their applications; failure to accurately indicate this period can lead To denial

10.Failure to meet minimum age requirements: Minors traveling unaccompanied may require additional documentation to apply for a transit visa, but even those accompanied by an adult may still face problems if their paperwork is incomplete.

11.Inadequate justification of travel purpose: Transit visas are only granted for specific travel purposes, such as attending a conference or connecting flights at a Dutch airport. Failing to provide adequate proof or justification of the purpose of the trip can result in a rejection.

12. Errors in the application form: Any errors on the application form can lead to delays or rejection of the visa application. It is essential to double-check all information before submitting it.

13.Expired passport: The passport must have at least six months’ validity remaining from the date of your intended arrival in the Netherlands. If your passport expires before then, your transit visa application will be rejected.

14.Lack of travel medical insurance: Applicants are required to have valid travel medical insurance that covers their entire stay in the Netherlands and any other Schengen countries they plan to visit during their transit. Failure to provide this can lead to rejection of the visa application.

15. Will my past travel history affect my chances of getting a Netherlands Transit Visa approved?


It is possible that your past travel history may affect your chances of getting a Netherlands Transit Visa approved, as it will be taken into consideration by the visa officer when reviewing your application. If you have a history of overstaying or violating visa conditions in other countries, the officer may view you as high-risk and be less likely to approve your transit visa. It is important to provide all necessary documents and information to support your application and demonstrate your intentions to travel for transit purposes only.

16. Are there any health insurance requirements for obtaining a Netherlands Transit Visa?


No, there are no specific health insurance requirements for obtaining a Netherlands Transit Visa. However, it is always recommended to have adequate travel and medical insurance to cover any possible medical emergencies during transit.

17. How long before my intended date of travel should I apply for a Netherlands Transit Visa?


The recommended timeline for applying for a Netherlands Transit Visa is at least 2-3 weeks before your intended date of travel. This will allow enough time for the visa application to be processed and approved, and for you to receive your travel documents in time for your trip. It is also best to apply well in advance in case there are any delays or issues with your application that need to be addressed.

18. Can I exit and re-enter through different Dutch airports with my transit visa?


No, you cannot. The transit visa is only valid for one entry and exit through the same airport in the Netherlands, as listed on your visa. If you need to enter and exit through different airports in the Netherlands, you will need to apply for a regular Schengen visa instead.

19.Can I visit other Schengen countries during my layover in the Netherlands with my transit visa?


Yes, as long as you hold a valid Schengen transit visa, you are allowed to enter and travel within other Schengen countries during your layover in the Netherlands. However, please note that the purpose of your trip must still be transit, and you cannot leave the international airport area without going through immigration control. It is also important to make sure that your transit visa allows for multiple entries if you plan on visiting multiple Schengen countries during your layover.

20.What happens if my flight gets delayed and I exceed my allowed stay with my transit visa in the Netherlands?

If your flight gets delayed and you exceed your allowed stay with your transit visa in the Netherlands, you may be considered an overstayer by immigration officials. This could result in fines, deportation, and/or difficulty obtaining future visas for the Netherlands or other countries.

It is important to notify the Dutch immigration authorities as soon as possible if your flight is delayed and you need to extend your transit visa. You should also keep any documentation related to the delay (such as flight tickets or official notices) in case it is needed for proof.

If you are unable to leave the Netherlands within your permitted stay due to circumstances beyond your control, you may be able to apply for a visa extension or a grace period of stay. However, this will depend on individual circumstances and approval is not guaranteed. It is always best to contact the Dutch immigration authorities for further guidance in these situations.