Short-stay visa

When is a short-stay visa required?

If your guest comes from a country for which a visa is required, he or she will need a short-stay visa (also called a tourist visa or Schengen visa) to stay in the Netherlands and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days. In special situations, such as the serious illness or death of a family member, it may sometimes be possible to apply for an urgent visa. Read in this blog how this can be arranged.

It is important that the application is submitted carefully. An incomplete or incorrect application often leads to rejection. Especially when you act as a sponsor yourself, for example by inviting someone and providing a financial guarantee, additional obligations apply that must be taken into account.

Conditions for a short-stay visa

To be eligible for a short-stay visa (Schengen visa), the traveller must meet the following conditions:

• Valid travel document
  The passport must be valid for at least 3 months after departure from the Netherlands and must not be older than 10 years.
• No threat to public order or security
  The traveller may not pose a risk to public order, national security, or international relations. Other Schengen countries may also object to the issuance of the visa.
• Proof of purpose of stay
  It must be clear what the purpose of the visit is. For example:
  • Visiting family or friends: an invitation and financial guarantee from a sponsor in the Netherlands. The guarantee must be legalised by the municipality. This means the inviter must appear in person at the municipality with valid identification.
  • Tourist visit: hotel reservations and a travel itinerary.
• Sufficient financial means
  The traveller must be able to prove that he or she has sufficient funds for the stay and return journey:
  • At least €55 per person per day, proven by bank statements, traveller’s cheques, or cash.
  • Or: a sponsor in the Netherlands who guarantees the costs, supported by documents such as payslips, an employment contract, or business documents.
• No risk of settlement
  The traveller must demonstrate that he or she will return to the country of origin on time. This can be shown by:
  • Employer’s statement
  • Proof of home ownership
  • Proof of minor school-going children
  • Proof of care for elderly (resident) parents
• Medical travel insurance
  The traveller must have medical insurance valid in the Schengen area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Return ticket or reservation
  An option or provisional booking of a return ticket is required.
• Passport photos
  Two recent passport photos that meet Dutch passport photo requirements.

A complete and well-substantiated application significantly increases the chance of success.

How can I help you with the application?

As a lawyer specialised in immigration law, I guide you step by step through the process of applying for a short-stay visa. Whether you only want a document check or full support from A to Z, I offer various packages that suit your situation and preferences.

Short-stay visa application packages – choose what suits you best

Whether you want to handle most of it yourself with an extra check, or prefer to hand everything over: I offer two clear and practical packages.

Note:

• The stated package prices apply to online sessions via video calls. If you prefer an in-person appointment, please let me know. I am happy to arrange this, but additional costs may apply.
• Prices exclude IND fees and any costs for legalising documents.

Not sure which package suits you?

Plan a free 20-minute introductory consultation. Together we will determine what best fits your situation and wishes.

Why choose professional assistance?

Applying for a short-stay visa may seem simple, but in practice it is often more complex. With my help:

• You meet all requirements of the IND and the embassy.
• You avoid unnecessary rejection of your application.
• You know exactly which documents are required.
• You save time, stress, and frustration.

Start today

Do you want to be sure that your short-stay visa application proceeds smoothly? Get in touch. I will gladly help you prepare and submit a careful and successful application.