Mumbaikars planning to travel to the Netherlands need to ensure that they are aware of the complete travel journey. For instance, the first step should be applying for a Netherlands visa from Mumbai. The application process can seem daunting, especially if you are traveling for the first time.
However, the following guide will make it easier for you to grasp the essentials to apply for a visa successfully. For this purpose, read on to the blog below to learn about the visa types, documents needed, and the step-by-step application process.
Why do Mumbaikars Travel to the Netherlands?
Usually, Mumbai folks visit the Kingdom of the Netherlands for several reasons. Some of them may include tourism, relocating for a new job, or studying abroad. Besides, choosing the Netherlands among all the Schengen countries could be due to the following possibilities.
- The country is famous for its high quality of life. This means that its administration focuses on the development of infrastructure and social welfare.
- Moreover, it also has an affordable public transport system, which makes it easy for travelers to travel throughout the country.
- Its capital, Amsterdam, is popular for its thousands of tourist destinations. This includes the Dam Square, the Tulip Museum, etc. The Netherlands also offers relaxing parks, cycling opportunities, and canal cruises.
- Due to the highly attained education level, many Indian students choose to continue their higher studies in the Netherlands.
- Lastly, skilled personnel can get various employment opportunities in the Netherlands because of its strong economy.
Where Can I Submit My Netherlands Visa Application in Mumbai?
The residents of Mumbai have two options through which they can submit their Netherlands visa application in Mumbai. For instance,
However, you need to know that visa applications always go through VFS Global’s channel.
| Factors | Consulate General of the Netherlands | VFS Global |
| Location in Mumbai | 20th Floor, Express Towers, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021 | Ahura Center, 1st Floor, Mahakali Caves Road, Andheri East |
| Role | The Consulate DOES NOT process visa applications directly. Therefore, all submissions go through VFS Global. | Processes all Netherlands Schengen visa applications on behalf of the Dutch Government and Embassy. |
| Services | However, it offers the following services. Provides emergency travel documents for Dutch nationals, Assists in the legalization of documents, Assists with non-consular inquiries, e.g., cultural ties, trade. | The following prominent services are offered by this visa application center. Booking of an appointment slot, Collection of biometric data (fingerprints and photos), Submission of the documents and the return of the passport |
Important: Please note that applications submitted through VFS Global require you to pay an additional 1,635 INR as service charges (inclusive of VAT).
A Detailed Guide on the Application Process for a Netherlands Visa from Mumbai
If you want to travel to the Netherlands from Mumbai, you need to apply for a Netherlands visa from Mumbai. For this purpose, the following step-by-step guide will help you lodge your application successfully.
The section below discusses the application submission process through the VFS Global visa application center, instead of the consulate.
Step 1: Visit the website
The first step requires you to visit the website of VFS Global. On the front page, select the home (India) and destination (the Netherlands) countries. After that, click on the ‘take me to the website’ tab to proceed.
Once done, click on the ‘apply for a visa’ to start the step-by-step application process.
Step 2: Choose a visa category
After that, the next step is to choose a visa category. The Netherlands offers the following visa types to the residents of Mumbai.
Short-stay visa
A short-term visa allows you to stay in the target country for almost 90 days. It has a validity period of almost one hundred and eighty days, and you can use it for short-term purposes. For instance, seafarers, an orange carpet, visits from family members, etc.
Besides, the following are the famous Schengen visa categories.
- Tourist visa
- Medical treatment visa
- Business visa
- Official visit visa
- Cultural, sports, or religious events visa
Long-stay visa
The second visa category is a long-stay or National visa that you can use to live in the Netherlands on a temporary and permanent basis. Generally, it has a validity period of six months or more, depending on the purpose of your stay.
You can use it for the following reasons.
- Work visa
- Family reunification visa
- Student visa
Airport transit visa
An airport transit or Type A visa is usually used for transiting through the Dutch airports when traveling to a third country without entering the Schengen Area. In case you enter the Schengen Zone or a specific Schengen country, you need to get a transit or Type B visa.
Do you know? Mostly, Mumbaikars apply for a Schengen visa when traveling to the Netherlands.
Step 3: Fill out the visa application form
The third step is to complete the visa application form. For this purpose, visit the official website of the Netherlands. After that, depending on your visit purpose, download and print a visa application form.
Click on this link to get the desired application form. Also, make sure that you fill it accurately. Besides, do not forget to sign the application form at the end for authentication purposes.
Step 4: Gather the documents
This step requires you to amass the documents based on the purpose of your visit. Please note that both general and visa-specific documents should be submitted when visiting the center on the day of your appointment.
General documents
- You need to submit your Indian passport, valid for three months, and containing two blank pages
- Also, submit two passport-size pictures, following the Schengen photo guidelines
- Furthermore, proof of flight reservation is also needed to show your travel plans, including the date, time, flight number, 6-digit PNR, etc.
- Besides, you also need to have proof of accommodation, demonstrating your place of stay in the Netherlands. This could be a hotel booking, an invitation letter, a rental contract, etc.
- Do not forget to write and submit a strong cover letter to explain your visit purpose. You can get it from coverletterforvisa.com.
- In addition, your visa application requires you to purchase travel health insurance valid for the entire Schengen region and contains a coverage amount of at least 30,000-40,000 euros.
- Lastly, financial documents, such as a bank statement, a salary slip, or an income tax return, should be submitted to represent that you can manage your expenses on your own.
Additional documents
- A detailed travel itinerary
- Leave approval letter from your current Indian employer
- NOC
- Admission letter from the target educational institute
- Academic transcript
- A sponsorship letter
- Work contract or job offer letter
- Residence permit
Step 5: Schedule an appointment
After collecting the documents, you need to book an appointment using the VFS Global online portal. Make sure that you complete this step at least six months or 45 days before your intended departure because the appointment slots fill quickly.
For this purpose, create or log in to your account.
Step 6: Visit the consulate/center
Then, visit the visa application center on the day of your appointment and submit your documents along with the application form.
Step 7: Provide biometric
The same day requires you to provide your biometric data, such as 10 fingerprints and photos. This information is stored in the Visa Information System for almost five years.
Step 8: Attend the interview
The next step to be completed on the appointment day is to attend the visa interview. The officials may ask you to appear for the interview to discuss your travel plans personally. This is particularly important for applicants traveling for the first time or someone having a suspicious application.
Step 9: Track your application
Once submitted the essentials above, you can track the status of your application using VFS Global’s tracker. For this purpose, you need to enter the application reference number and your last name.
Step 10: Collect your passport
The last step is to pick up your passport in case your visa is approved. Make sure to check the information, such as the validity of the visa, before collecting it. If denied, you will receive a rejection letter.
What is the Processing Fee for a Netherlands Visa from Mumbai?
When applying for a Netherlands visa from Mumbai, you also need to submit a processing fee. However, the exact amount depends on the visa category you choose. Generally, a Schengen visa for all the Schengen countries requires you to pay 90 euros for adults and 45 euros for children between the ages of six and twelve.
On the other hand, the application fee for a National visa varies depending on the target country, the sub-category chosen, the duration of your stay, etc.
So, you can visit this official website to learn about the standard fee structure for a Netherlands visa from Mumbai.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Netherlands Visa from Mumbai?
Typically, the diplomatic mission may take 15 to 30 working days to process your application for a Netherlands visa from Mumbai. However, in case of additional scrutiny, such as if extra checks are needed, the processing period gets extended to up to 45 days. This may include document verification or a high volume of applications.
Moreover, applicants are usually advised to avoid traveling during peak travel season, from June to August, or summer holidays. Therefore, apply for a visa at least 3 to 4 months in advance.
Common Reasons for the Netherlands Visa Rejection from Mumbai
Mentioned below are some of the common reasons for visa rejection in case you are applying for the Netherlands from Mumbai. Make sure that you avoid them when submitting your application.
- An incomplete application form, such as a missing signature or unfilled boxes
- Submitting your application at the last minute, fewer than 45 days before your trip
- Bank statements not fulfilling the standard requirement of having 55 euros per day
- Documents, such as a parental consent letter for minors traveling alone, are missing
- The chosen travel health insurance policy does not cover the entire Schengen Area or lacks coverage of 30,000 euros
What Are Your Options for a Netherlands Visa Rejection from Mumbai?
Thus, in case your application for a Netherlands visa from Mumbai gets rejected, you can opt for any of the following two options. Before that, make sure that you review the rejection letter to understand the visa rejection reason. This may be due to unclear travel purposes or insufficient ties to India.
- If you think that the rejection reason was unjust, you can submit a written appeal within 4 weeks to the IND (Immigration and Naturalization Service).
- The second option is to address the gaps by modifying the mistakes highlighted in the previous application. You can do this by reapplying for a visa application with stronger financial proof and a detailed cover letter. Also, note that you also have to pay the visa fee again, which is non-refundable in case of approval or rejection.
Final Thoughts
The application for a Netherlands visa from Mumbai may take you to the uneven roads, but following this guide will make the process a breeze for you. Thus, make sure that you lodge your application through VFS Global.
This also requires you to use its prominent services, avoid common mistakes, and fulfill the visa requirements to ensure a successful outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it mandatory to get a visa before traveling to the Netherlands?
Yes, the residents of Mumbai need a pre-approval visa to travel to the Netherlands. Unfortunately, Indian citizens are not eligible to get a visa on arrival in the Netherlands. Moreover, it is not on the list of visa-free countries that allow its citizens to travel to the target country without a visa.
- Am I allowed to visit other Schengen countries with a Netherlands visa?
Yes. A valid Schengen visa for any Schengen country makes you eligible to travel to the rest of the Schengen Area. The Netherlands visa, for example, allows you to move across 28 Schengen countries.
- Can I still apply at the Consulate if I am not a resident of Mumbai?
Unfortunately, you cannot submit your application at the Consulate of the Netherlands if you are not a resident of Mumbai. Participants outside Mumbai need to either apply for a visa through the visa application center or the Embassy of the Netherlands in New Delhi, India, depending on the area of their residence.
- Do I need a transit visa for layovers in the Netherlands?
In case of a layover in the Netherlands, you will need to get a transit visa only if you leave the international transit area at the airport of the Netherlands. If this is not the case, you can fly over the Netherlands to reach your target country with a valid Schengen visa as well.
- What if I lost my passport post visa approval?
If you lost your passport containing a Netherlands visa stamp, contact the consulate immediately. This also requires you to file a police report and then apply for a new passport. After that, a new Netherlands visa sticker makes it mandatory for you to lodge a new visa application.
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