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Senegal passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Senegal

Embassy / VFSShort-Stay Schengen Visa (Tourist, Business, etc.)

Citizens of Senegal 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 (Tourist, Business, etc.)
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 90 days
Visa validity90 days
EntriesMultiple entry
Processing time15–45 days
Government fee€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validityAt least 3 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statements last 3 months, pay slips, or proof of sponsorship

How to apply

  1. 1

    Determine visa type and gather documents

    Check if you need a short-stay Schengen visa and collect all required documents.

  2. 2

    Complete the online application form

    Fill out the Schengen visa application on the official Netherlands Worldwide website.

  3. 3

    Book an appointment at the VFS Global centre or embassy

    Schedule an in-person appointment for submission of documents and biometrics.

  4. 4

    Attend appointment – submit documents and provide biometrics

    Bring all original documents, photos, and pay the visa fee. Biometrics (photo and fingerprints) will be collected.

  5. 5

    Wait for processing (15-45 calendar days)

    Your application is processed by the embassy. Additional documents may be requested.

  6. 6

    Collect passport with visa decision

    After a decision, collect your passport in person or via courier (if arranged).

Documents checklist

Travel

  • Valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond intended departure)

    Must have at least two blank pages.

  • Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)

    Valid for entire Schengen area and stay duration.

  • Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary

    Not a paid ticket; reservation only.

  • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental contract, or invitation letter)

    Must cover entire stay.

Financial

  • Bank statements (last 3 months) or pay slips

    To prove sufficient funds.

  • Visa fee payment receipt

    Pay at appointment.

Employment

  • Employment letter or proof of student status

    Include leave approval if employed.

Supporting

  • Completed and signed Schengen visa application form

    Print and sign after completing online.

  • Recent passport-style photo (35x45mm, white background)

    Must meet ICAO standards.

  • Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)

    Optional

    Helps show travel history.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €55 per day of stay

  • Bank statements
  • Pay slips
  • Sponsorship letter with sponsor's bank statements

If sponsored, submit sponsor's bank statements and a signed sponsorship form.

Good to know

  • Visa applications from Senegal may face additional scrutiny; allow extra processing time.
  • All documents not in English, French, or Dutch must be translated by a certified translator.
  • Biometrics are required every 59 months; if you already have a valid Schengen visa, you may not need new biometrics.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all required documents and translations before appointment.

Insufficient proof of funds or ties to Senegal

Provide strong evidence of employment, property, or family ties to return.

Travel insurance not covering entire Schengen area or minimum amount

Purchase insurance that meets the €30,000 minimum and covers all Schengen countries.

FAQ

Do citizens of Senegal need a visa for the Netherlands?

Citizens of Senegal need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Tourist, Business, etc.).

How long can citizens of Senegal stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Senegal need for the Netherlands?

Valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond intended departure); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Recent passport-style photo (35x45mm, white background); Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental contract, or invitation letter); and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the Netherlands?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

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

Sources

Plan your trip to the Netherlands

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