Skip to content

Cuba passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Cuba

Embassy / VFSShort-stay Schengen visa (up to 90 days)

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

Application site

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

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · Short-stay Schengen visa (up to 90 days)
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 90 days
EntriesMultiple entry
Processing time15–45 days
Government fee€90
Passport validityAt least 3 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statements showing sufficient funds (approx. €55 per day of stay)

How to apply

  1. 1

    Prepare required documents

    Gather all supporting documents as per the checklist provided by the Netherlands embassy.

  2. 2

    Book an appointment

    Schedule an appointment at the Netherlands embassy in Havana or at a VFS Global center.

  3. 3

    Attend appointment and submit application

    Submit the application in person, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph), and pay the visa fee.

  4. 4

    Wait for processing

    The embassy processes the application; processing time may take up to 15–30 calendar days.

  5. 5

    Collect passport with visa decision

    Return to the embassy or VFS center to collect the passport, or receive it by courier if arranged.

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid Cuban passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen area)

  • Completed and signed Schengen visa application form

  • Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background)

  • Valid Cuban identity card (carné de identidad)

Travel

  • Proof of travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid throughout Schengen)

  • Round-trip flight itinerary or proof of booked travel

  • Proof of accommodation in the Netherlands (hotel reservations or invitation letter)

Financial

  • Bank statements for the last 3 months

  • Proof of payment of the visa fee

Employment

  • Proof of employment or studies (e.g., employment letter, student card, or business license)

Supporting

  • Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary

    Optional

    Recommended to clarify travel intent

  • Invitation letter from a sponsor in the Netherlands (if applicable)

    Optional

    Required for visits to friends/family

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €55 per day of stay

  • Bank statements
  • Proof of income
  • Sponsor letter

Bank statements must be original and stamped by the bank.

Good to know

  • Visa does not automatically grant entry; final decision by border authorities at the port of entry.
  • All documents must be in Spanish, Dutch, French, or English; if not, certified translations may be required.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient or unclear documentation

Ensure all required documents are complete and neatly organized.

Inadequate travel medical insurance

Purchase insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage valid in all Schengen states.

Lack of proof of sufficient funds

Provide bank statements or sponsor letter showing enough funds for the entire stay.

Previous overstay or visa violation in Schengen area

Always respect visa conditions and leave before visa expiry.

FAQ

Do citizens of Cuba need a visa for the Netherlands?

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

How long can citizens of Cuba stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Cuba need for the Netherlands?

Valid Cuban passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen area); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background); Proof of travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid throughout Schengen); Round-trip flight itinerary or proof of booked travel; Proof of accommodation in the Netherlands (hotel reservations or invitation letter); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the Netherlands?

At least 3 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

Plan your trip to the Netherlands

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for Netherlands.

Netherlands visa for other passports

More destinations for Cuba passport holders