Netherlands Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Required for certain nationalities transiting through Schiphol Airport.
- Type A Visa permits stay in the international transit zone only.
- Valid for short layovers while changing international flights.
- Essential for non-exempt travellers from high-risk countries.
- Applications must be submitted through VFS Global or Dutch embassies.
- Exemptions apply for holders of US, Canadian, or Japanese visas.
- Processing typically takes around 15 calendar days.
Processing time
15 calendar days
Processing times may extend to 45 days if additional consultation is required by other Schengen states.
Estimated cost
€90 - €130
- Schengen Visa Fee (Standard Adult)€90 (approx. $100)
- Reduced fee for children 6-12 years old€45 (approx. $50)
- External Service Provider (VFS Global/TLScontact) service feeVaries
Requirements
- Applicant must be transiting through a Dutch airport to a destination outside the Schengen Area.
- The passport must be valid for at least three months after the intended transit date.
- Travellers must not intend to leave the airport's international transit zone.
- Evidence of a confirmed onward flight ticket is mandatory.
- No prior history of Schengen visa overstays or immigration violations.
- The applicant's nationality must be on the list of countries requiring an ATV.
- The applicant must have the legal right to enter the final destination country.
- Minors must provide a birth certificate and notarised parental consent if travelling alone.
Documents you'll need
- A valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages.
- Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form.
- Two recent passport photos meeting EU specifications.
- Proof of onward travel (confirmed flight tickets to a non-Schengen destination).
- Valid visa for the final destination country (if applicable).
- Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage.
- Proof of financial means for the duration of the transit.
- Proof of accommodation if an overnight stay is required within the transit zone.
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility
Determine if your nationality requires an Airport Transit Visa (Type A) or if you are exempt based on your existing visas.
- 2
Fill Application Form
Complete the official Schengen Visa application form accurately, ensuring you select 'Airport Transit' as the purpose of travel.
- 3
Prepare Documents
Gather your passport, flight itinerary, photos, and proof of onward destination visas.
- 4
Book Appointment
Schedule an interview at the nearest Dutch embassy, consulate, or authorised service provider like VFS Global.
- 5
Submit Biometrics
Attend your appointment to submit your documents and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- 6
Pay Visa Fees
Pay the non-refundable visa fee at the application centre during your appointment.
- 7
Wait for Processing
Track your application status online while the embassy processes your request, which usually takes 15 days.
- 8
Collect Passport
Once notified, collect your passport with the visa sticker or receive it via courier if you opted for that service.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Double-check your flight itinerary; if you change terminals and have to pass through border control, an ATV is not sufficient.
- Ensure your passport photo was taken within the last six months and meets all EU standards.
- Provide a clear copy of your visa for your final destination to prove you are genuinely transiting.
- Apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance to account for any unexpected administrative delays.
- Do not purchase non-refundable tickets until you have confirmed the visa requirements for your specific nationality.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers the entire duration of your journey, even just for the transit period.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.