Russia passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Russia

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short Stay)

Citizens of Russia 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
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 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

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Check if you need a Schengen visa and collect all required documents as per checklist.
2
Complete the online visa application form
Fill out the application form on the official Netherlands visa portal and print it.
3
Book an appointment at the VFS Global visa application centre
Schedule an appointment online for biometrics and document submission.
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the €80 visa fee (plus service fee if applicable) at the centre or online as instructed.
5
Attend the appointment in person
Submit your application, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and submit all documents.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, but may extend up to 45 days in complex cases.
7
Collect your passport
Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the VFS centre or have it couriered (if opted).

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)
Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed visa application form
Form available online at the Netherlands visa portal
Recent passport-sized photograph (35x45 mm)
Must meet ICAO standards, white background

Travel

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

Financial

Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements, sponsorship letter, etc.)
Typically €55 per day of stay

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc.)
Optional
If applicable
Previous Schengen visas (copies)
Optional
If any
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary
Optional
Recommended for clarity

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €55 per day of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Sponsorship letter with sponsor's bank statements
Traveler's cheques
Credit card statements

If sponsored, the sponsor must provide proof of funds and a signed letter.

Good to know

Visa applications must be submitted at least 15 days before travel, but not more than 6 months in advance.
Incomplete applications or missing documents may lead to rejection.
Biometrics are required every 5 years; if you have provided them before within 59 months, you may not need to appear in person.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial means

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance for the entire stay.

Unclear purpose of visit

Submit a detailed cover letter and supporting documents like hotel bookings and itinerary.

Previous visa violations or overstay

Ensure compliance with previous visa conditions and provide explanation if needed.

Invalid or insufficient travel insurance

Purchase insurance that covers medical expenses up to €30,000 and is valid in all Schengen states.

FAQ

Do citizens of Russia need a visa for the Netherlands?

Citizens of Russia 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 Russia stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Russia need for the Netherlands?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed and signed visa application form; Recent passport-sized photograph (35x45 mm); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter); and 5 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/visa. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

netherlandsandyou.nl

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