Afghanistan passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Afghanistan

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short Stay)

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (Short Stay)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €25 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient balance (approx. €55 per day of stay)

How to apply

1
Complete the Schengen visa application form
Fill out the online form on the Netherlands visa portal or VFS Global website.
2
Gather required documents
Collect all documents listed above, ensuring they are in order and translated if necessary.
3
Book an appointment at VFS Global or the embassy
Schedule an appointment online through VFS Global for biometrics and document submission.
4
Attend the appointment in person
Visit the VFS Global center or embassy on the scheduled date with all documents and passport.
5
Submit biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
Biometrics are collected at the center; they are valid for 5 years for Schengen visas.
6
Pay the visa fee
Pay the government fee (€80) and service fee (approx. €25) at the center.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days; may be longer for complex cases.
8
Collect passport with decision
Either pick up in person or opt for courier delivery (additional fee).

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area.
Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
Download from official website or VFS Global portal.
Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards.

Travel

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen stay.
Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation
Not necessarily paid ticket, but confirmed booking.
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement)
For entire duration of stay.

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Must show sufficient funds for stay and return.
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay at VFS Global or embassy.

Employment

Employment letter (or proof of self-employment/student status)
Include salary, position, and approved leave.

Supporting

Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable)
Optional
Only if traveling with family.
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary
Optional
Helps clarify travel plans.
Previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Copies of previous visas and travel stamps.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €55 per day of stay

Bank statements
Sponsorship letter
Traveler's checks

Bank statements must be original or certified copies, not older than 3 months.

Good to know

Afghan passport holders may face additional scrutiny due to security concerns.
Ensure all documents are translated into English or Dutch by a certified translator.
Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials may refuse entry.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements and proof of employment.

Lack of travel insurance or invalid coverage

Purchase insurance that meets Schengen requirements.

Previous visa violations or overstay in Schengen area

Provide explanation and evidence of compliance.

FAQ

Do citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the Netherlands?

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Short Stay).

How long can citizens of Afghanistan stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Netherlands visa cost for citizens of Afghanistan?

Government fee: €90 + €25 service fee.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Afghanistan need for the Netherlands?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the Netherlands?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/travel-and-residence/visas-for-the-netherlands/short-stay-schengen-visa. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

netherlandsandyou.nl

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