Mali passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Mali

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

Citizens of Mali 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
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €90 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 from the last 3 months showing sufficient means

How to apply

1
Check visa type and requirements
Confirm you need a Schengen short-stay visa for the Netherlands.
2
Prepare required documents
Gather all original and photocopy documents as listed above.
3
Complete the online application form
Fill out the Schengen visa form on the Netherlands embassy website or VFS Global portal.
4
Schedule an appointment
Book an appointment at the Netherlands Embassy in Bamako or via VFS Global (if available).
5
Pay the visa fee
Pay the €80 government fee plus any service fee (€90) at VFS Global or embassy.
6
Attend biometrics appointment
Provide fingerprints and a digital photo at the embassy or VFS center.
7
Submit your application
Hand in all documents in person during your scheduled appointment.
8
Wait for processing
Processing takes 15–30 calendar days. You may be asked for additional documents.
9
Collect passport with visa
Collect your passport from the embassy or VFS center. A courier option may be available for an extra fee.
10
Travel within the validity window
You can enter the Schengen area within 180 days of issuance, stay up to 90 days.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least two blank pages)
Passport valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
Download from Netherlands embassy website
Two recent passport-size photos (35x45 mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards
For minors: birth certificate, parental consent, and copies of parents' passports
Optional
Parental consent must be notarized if traveling alone

Travel

Round-trip flight itinerary
Reserved, not necessarily paid
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter)
For all nights of stay

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Showing stable income and sufficient funds

Employment

Employment contract / leave approval letter from employer
If employed

Supporting

Travel health insurance covering up to €30,000
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
Optional
If applicable
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
In English or French, stating itinerary and financial means
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay at VFS Global or embassy

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €30 per day of stay recommended

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Sponsorship letter if applicable

Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses

Good to know

Do NOT apply more than 6 months before your intended travel.
Missing documents or incorrect information can lead to rejection.
Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials may refuse entry.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient or inconsistent financial proof

Provide clear bank statements showing steady income and adequate balance.

Invalid passport or insufficient validity

Ensure passport has at least 3 months validity beyond departure and two blank pages.

Incomplete application form or missing signatures

Double-check form and sign all required sections.

Unclear travel itinerary or purpose

Write a clear cover letter and provide detailed bookings.

FAQ

Do citizens of Mali need a visa for the Netherlands?

Citizens of Mali 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 Mali stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €90 service fee.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Mali need for the Netherlands?

Valid passport (with at least two blank pages); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-size photos (35x45 mm, white background); Travel health insurance covering up to €30,000; Round-trip flight itinerary; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the Netherlands?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to the Netherlands

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