Lesotho passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Lesotho

Embassy / VFSShort-stay Schengen Visa (C) · Tourist / Business

Citizens of Lesotho 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 · Short-stay Schengen Visa (C) · Tourist / Business
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
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as listed above.
2
Complete visa application form
Fill online on Netherlands Worldwide portal, print and sign two copies.
3
Book appointment at VFS Global / embassy
Schedule a biometrics and submission appointment in person.
4
Attend appointment with documents and passport
Submit all documents, provide fingerprints and photo.
5
Pay visa fee
€80 paid at the centre (cash or card).
6
Wait for processing
Processing takes up to 15 calendar days.
7
Collect passport with visa decision
Usually pick up in person or via courier (if arranged).

Documents checklist

Travel

Passport (valid at least 6 months, 2 blank pages)
Issued within last 10 years
Round-trip flight itinerary
Booked but may be refundable
Travel health insurance (min €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen stay
Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
For all nights of stay

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Must show sufficient balance
Proof of paid visa fee
€80 payable at appointment

Employment

Employment letter or student certificate
Dated within 1 month, include leave approval

Supporting

Completed and signed visa application form
Print and sign two copies
Two recent passport-style photos
ISO/IEC compliant, white background
Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Attach if applicable
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but recommended
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate if applicable)
Optional
If travelling with spouse
Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
Signed and registered with local municipality
Return of postal application consent (VFS optional)
Optional
If using courier return

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approx. €34 per day of stay

Bank statements
Sponsorship letter if applicable

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision by border authorities.
Processing times may increase during peak seasons.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete documentation

Double-check all required documents before appointment.

Insufficient funds

Ensure bank statements show a minimum of €34 per day of stay.

Purpose of visit not justified

Provide a clear cover letter and supporting documents.

FAQ

Do citizens of Lesotho need a visa for the Netherlands?

Citizens of Lesotho need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay Schengen Visa (C) · Tourist / Business.

How long can citizens of Lesotho stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Lesotho need for the Netherlands?

Passport (valid at least 6 months, 2 blank pages); Completed and signed visa application form; Two recent passport-style photos; Round-trip flight itinerary; Travel health insurance (min €30,000 coverage); Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the Netherlands?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/visa/netherlands. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

netherlandsworldwide.nl

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