The Netherlands is moving to a fully digital visa application system from August 2025. Find out how to properly submit your application online, what documents you need to upload, and what will change for travelers in the new visa format.

From August 2025, the application process for a visa to the Netherlands will change completely: now it can only be done online. Handwritten or printed forms will no longer be accepted at visa application centers, and all travelers must use the digital service.

Read about the current procedure for obtaining a visa to the Netherlands in this article.

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What exactly is changing in the procedure for obtaining a Dutch visa?

Until now, many applicants brought handwritten questionnaires to visa application centers. But from August 4, 2025, the Dutch government is officially switching to a digital system:

- only online applications will be accepted;

- paper and scanned forms are considered invalid;

- the application form is submitted exclusively through the portal of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This step should make the process faster, more convenient and error-free.

How to apply for a visa to the Netherlands in the new format?

Step 1. Create an account

Go to the official portal consular.mfaservices.nl and register. This will be your personal page for filling out the application form and uploading documents.

Step 2. Fill out the electronic application form

In the form, you need to indicate your personal data, passport information, purpose of travel, travel itinerary, accommodation details and financial capabilities. The system allows you to save your progress and return to the application form later.

Step 3. Upload supporting documents

Scanned copies of the following are attached to the online application:

- signed digital application form;

- valid passport (at least 3 months after return, with 2 blank pages);

- two passport-sized photos;

- health insurance for a minimum of 30,000 euros;

- confirmation of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation);

- ticket reservation;

- documents on financial capacity;

- cover letter with a travel plan.

You may also be required to provide proof of employment, education, or family ties.

Step 4. Make an appointment with the visa application center

After submitting your online application, the system will suggest a convenient time to visit the VAC. There, you will need to provide your biometrics and print out all your documents.

Why is this important?

1. Fewer errors in forms and faster processing of applications.

2. All data is stored in a single digital system.

3. The process becomes simpler for travelers and more convenient for repeated applications.

If you are planning a trip to the Netherlands after August 2025, be sure to apply only through the official portal. Paper forms no longer work. Fill out the form online, print it, and bring it to your appointment with your documents.

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Reminder! A residence permit is a mandatory document that expats must have to legally reside in the country. We have already told you what requirements foreigners have to obtain a document and what is the procedure for obtaining a residence permit in the Netherlands that is relevant in 2024.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents for Netherlands;

Legal advice on immigration to Netherlands;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Netherlands;

Medical insurance all over the world.

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