Netherlands Visa Application Guide for UAE Residents & Nationals

Are you planning to travel to the Netherlands from the UAE? This guide will help you apply for a Netherlands visa in the United Arab Emirates. We will explain the different types of visas, required documents, costs, processing times, and travel tips. This way, your trip can be easy, whether you are an expatriate or a UAE citizen.

Does the Netherlands Require a Visa for UAE Citizens?

Good news for Emiratis! If you are a UAE citizen, you do not need a visa for short visits to the Netherlands and other Schengen countries. You can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This includes family trips, work meetings, and travel.

What you still need to carry:

• A UAE passport that is valid for at least three to six months after the date you intend to return.
• Proof of lodging and a round-trip ticket.
• Medical insurance for travel (recommended).
• At border control, proof of cash is optional but may be requested.

Important Information: Starting in 2025, UAE citizens must use the European Travel Information and authorisation System, or ETIAS. To get pre-travel approval, you need to apply online. It is not a visa, but travelers without it must go through an authorization check.

Step-by-step Netherlands visa guide for UAE travelers. Gulliver Holidays offers the best visa services for UAE residents planning trips to the Netherlands.

Netherlands Visa Types for Visitors to the UAE

Choose the right visa based on your travel purpose:

• Schengen Type C Tourist Visa: This is for travel, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. It is valid for up to ninety days.
• Business Visa: This is for short-term business activities like training, conferences, and meetings.
• Student Visa: For courses shorter than ninety days, apply for a Type C Schengen visa. For long study programs, like a bachelor’s or master’s degree, ask your Dutch school for help. They can assist you with applying for a residence permit and a Long-Stay Visa (MVV).
• Other visas are for work, family reunions, or medical care. These are long-term visas. They have a different application process.

How to Apply for a Netherlands Visa in the United Arab Emirates (for UAE Residents)

Step 1: Check if you need a visa

If you live in the UAE and have a foreign passport, you can use the visa tool from the Netherlands embassy. This tool will help you check what visa you need. Most passport holders from South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa need a Schengen visa.

Step 2: Choose the Visa Type and Gather Documents

Collect these documents:

• Fill out the Visa application form online and print it with the barcode.
• Original passport (issued in the last ten years and valid for at least three months after your return).
• A copy of your Emirates ID or UAE residency visa (valid at least 3 months after your return).
• Recent passport photos (35 x 45 mm, white backdrop, following Dutch regulations).
• Bookings for flights (round-trip schedule).
• Hotel reservations or evidence of lodging.
• Travel insurance for all Schengen nations, up to €30,000.
• Bank statements (stamped, last three months).
• If self-employed, a trade licence or employment letter/NOC is required.

Additional documents may include invitation letters, marriage or birth certificates, or sponsor information if needed.

Step 3: Finish the Online Visa Application

Fill out the Schengen visa application online by going to the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Make sure the information match your documents, print it, and sign it. Every candidate, including children, must have their own form.

Step 4: Schedule a Meeting with VFS Worldwide

For Netherlands visas, go to the VFS Global website. Choose the Dubai or Abu Dhabi center. You can book appointments up to six months ahead. Avoid making last-minute reservations.

Step 5: Attend your appointment and provide your biometric information

Bring the required documents and arrive early.You’ll:

• Send in the application for a visa together with the necessary paperwork.
• Give your fingerprints, if you haven’t done so in the last five years.
• Pay service and visa fees.
• Choose if you want your passport delivered or picked up.
• You will receive a tracking reference number.

Step 6: Pay the Visa Fees

• Service Fee: AED 102.67 including VAT; €90 (about AED 350–380) for adults; €45 for children aged 6–11; free for children under 6.
• Payment Options: We accept international debit/credit cards or cash (AED). We do not accept Apple Pay.

Step 7: Wait for Processing

• Normal time: 10–15 business days.
• Peak season: Can take up to 25 working days.
• Maximum: 45 calendar days. Track your application via VFS using your reference number.

Step 8: Get Your Passport

You can pick it up at the center or have it delivered by courier. Check the following visa information: name, passport number, validity, and entries. If you find any mistakes, contact the Dutch consulate right away.

Documents Needed for UAE Citizens to Enter Without a Visa

If you’re traveling without a visa, still prepare these:

• UAE passport (valid for at least 6 months).
• Travel itinerary (round-trip flights, accommodation).
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
• Proof of funds (bank card, statements, or cash—optional).

Be ready to present these to border officers upon request.

Cost Breakdown for Netherlands Visa (From UAE)

During your appointment, you will be required to pay both the visa and service fees. Keep some cash on hand or a credit card that accepts euros.

Netherlands Visa Processing Time from the UAE

Apply early, ideally 6–8 weeks before your trip, especially during holidays.

Tips to Boost Your Approval Chances

• Book early appointments—slots fill up fast.
• Double-check documents—incomplete files lead to delays.
• Use refundable bookings for flight/hotel.
• Provide extra documents that prove strong ties to the UAE.
• Get travel insurance early—don’t leave it to the last day.
• Dress neatly and be polite during your VFS visit.

Conclusion:

When you’re ready, getting a Netherlands visa from the UAE is simple. This guide helps you understand each step. It works for Emiratis traveling without a visa and expats from the UAE planning a trip. If you prepare early and follow the official steps, you’ll be exploring Amsterdam’s canals soon!