Botswana passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Botswana

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa · Short Stay (up to 90 days)

Citizens of Botswana 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 (up to 90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
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 funds

How to apply

1
Determine visa type
Choose the correct Schengen visa for your purpose (tourism, business, etc.).
2
Complete online application form
Fill out the visa application form on the Netherlands Visa Application website.
3
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per the checklist for your visa type.
4
Book appointment
Schedule an appointment at the VFS Global visa application centre in Botswana.
5
Attend appointment and submit biometrics
Visit the centre in person to submit your application, provide fingerprints and photo.
6
Pay visa fee
Pay the visa fee at the centre (cash or card as accepted).
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, can extend up to 45 days.
8
Collect passport
Return to the centre or opt for courier delivery to receive your passport with visa decision.

Documents checklist

Identity

Completed and signed visa application form
Must be filled in online and printed.
Valid passport
Issued within last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure, with at least 2 blank pages.
Passport-sized photographs
Two recent, biometric, 35x45mm, white background.
Proof of civil status
Optional
Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable.

Travel

Travel medical insurance
Minimum coverage €30,000, valid throughout Schengen area.
Round-trip flight itinerary
Confirmed reservation showing entry and exit dates.
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or invitation letter from host.

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements, payslips, or sponsor letter.

Employment

Employment letter
From employer stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Cover letter
Optional
Explaining purpose of visit and itinerary.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €55 per day of stay

Bank statements
Payslips
Sponsor letter

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay and return.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials make final decision.
Processing times may increase during peak seasons.
Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide clear proof of adequate financial means.

Invalid travel insurance

Ensure insurance meets Schengen requirements.

Incomplete documentation

Double-check all required documents are included.

FAQ

Do citizens of Botswana need a visa for the Netherlands?

Citizens of Botswana need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Short Stay (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of Botswana stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Botswana need for the Netherlands?

Completed and signed visa application form; Valid passport; Passport-sized photographs; Travel medical insurance; Round-trip flight itinerary; Proof of accommodation; and 4 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. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

netherlandsandyou.nl

Plan your trip to the Netherlands

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