Sri Lanka passport → Netherlands

Netherlands visa for citizens of Sri Lanka

Embassy / VFSShort-stay Schengen visa (C)

Citizens of Sri Lanka 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)
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 + €25 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 for last 3 months showing sufficient funds (approx. €55 per day)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Confirm you need a short-stay Schengen visa (C) for tourism, business, or family visit.
2
Complete the online application form
Fill the Schengen visa application form on the official Netherlands visa portal.
3
Book an appointment at VFS Global in Colombo
Schedule a biometric appointment via VFS Global website; slots are limited.
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay €80 visa fee plus VFS service fee (approx. €25) at the centre.
5
Attend appointment and submit documents
Visit VFS Global in person with all required documents and biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days; may extend to 45 days in some cases.
7
Collect passport or receive by courier
Once decision is made, collect passport from VFS or opt for courier delivery.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
Download from the official website
Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards

Travel

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking
Shows entry and exit dates
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
For entire stay in the Netherlands

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Must show sufficient funds for the trip
Income tax returns (last 2 years)
Optional
To support financial stability

Employment

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

Supporting

Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Briefly describe itinerary and ties to Sri Lanka
Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Helps demonstrate travel history
Marriage certificate or family ties proof (if applicable)
Optional
For family visits or dependents

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approx. €55 per day of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Income tax returns
Sponsorship letter if applicable

Must show sufficient funds to cover accommodation, meals, and local transport.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials may deny entry.
Processing times may increase during peak seasons.
Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements and proof of stable income.

Weak ties to home country (risk of overstay)

Submit employment letter, property documents, or family ties evidence.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all documents against the checklist before appointment.

FAQ

Do citizens of Sri Lanka need a visa for the Netherlands?

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

How long can citizens of Sri Lanka stay in the Netherlands?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Netherlands visa cost for citizens of Sri Lanka?

Government fee: €90 + €25 service fee.

How long does Netherlands visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Sri Lanka need for the Netherlands?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the Netherlands?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/travel-and-residence/visas-for-the-netherlands/short-stay-schengen-visa. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

netherlandsandyou.nl

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