---
title: Netherlands visa for citizens of Sri Lanka
description: "Citizens of Sri Lanka need a visa for the Netherlands and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90 + €25 service fee. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/netherlands/sri-lanka
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Netherlands visa for citizens of Sri Lanka

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.*

Application site: https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/travel-and-residence/visas-for-the-netherlands/short-stay-schengen-visa

## 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

- **Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
- **Completed and signed Schengen visa application form** (Identity): Download from the official website
- **Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)** (Identity): Must meet ICAO standards
- **Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)** (Travel): Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
- **Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking** (Travel): Shows entry and exit dates
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)** (Travel): For entire stay in the Netherlands
- **Bank statements for last 3 months** (Financial): Must show sufficient funds for the trip
- **Employment letter or proof of leave** (Employment): Stating position, salary, and approved leave dates
- **Income tax returns (last 2 years)** (Financial, optional): To support financial stability
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of visit** (Supporting): Briefly describe itinerary and ties to Sri Lanka
- **Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)** (Supporting, optional): Helps demonstrate travel history
- **Marriage certificate or family ties proof (if applicable)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.netherlandsandyou.nl/travel-and-residence/visas-for-the-netherlands/short-stay-schengen-visa)

## More

- [Netherlands visa for every passport](/visa/netherlands)
- [Every destination for Sri Lanka passport holders](/visa/passport/sri-lanka)
