TL;DR
To get a Netherlands Schengen visa from the UK you apply through VFS Global: start on the Netherlands Worldwide portal, book a VFS appointment (often 4–6 weeks ahead), and attend to give biometrics and submit.
| Netherlands Schengen visa (from the UK) | 2026 |
|---|---|
| UK visa application centre | VFS Global |
| Application cities | London, Edinburgh |
| Visa fee (adult) | €90 |
| Standard processing | 15 calendar days (up to 45) |
| Official portal | Netherlands visa info ↗ |
How to apply
- Start on the official Netherlands Worldwide short-stay visa page.
- Book a VFS Global appointment — slots are often around 4–6 weeks out, so plan ahead.
- Prepare your documents — see the Schengen document checklist.
- Attend to give biometrics and submit.
- Wait — standard processing is 15 calendar days; complete applications are often decided within 1–2 weeks.
When to apply to the Netherlands
Apply to the Netherlands only if it's your main destination (most nights), or your first entry on an evenly-split trip — a common case is flying into Amsterdam before continuing elsewhere. See which country to apply to.
What you'll need
The standard Schengen documents: passport, application, photo, proof of UK residence, bookings, itinerary, bank statements, €30,000+ insurance, and strong evidence you'll return to the UK — the main factor behind refusals.
Assemble it cleanly
- Checklist generator — your tailored list
- Bundler and Compressor — assemble and size your file
Want a human review before your VFS appointment? See the done-for-you Schengen service. For the overview, see the Schengen visa from the UK hub.
Sources
Common questions
- 01
How do I apply for a Netherlands Schengen visa from the UK?
Netherlands UK visa applications are handled by VFS Global. You start on the Netherlands Worldwide portal, book a VFS appointment, prepare your documents and attend to give biometrics and submit. You must legally reside in the UK to apply here.
- 02
Who handles Netherlands visa applications in the UK?
VFS Global is the service provider for Dutch Schengen visas in the UK. The Netherlands decides the application; VFS runs the visa centre and collects biometrics. Appointments often book around 4–6 weeks ahead.
- 03
How much is a Netherlands Schengen visa from the UK?
€90 for adults, €45 for children 6–12, free under 6 — identical to all Schengen countries. VFS Global adds a service fee, and you need travel insurance with at least €30,000 of cover.
- 04
How long does a Netherlands Schengen visa take from the UK?
Standard processing is 15 calendar days, and the Netherlands has generally been processing complete applications within roughly 1–2 weeks. Book your VFS appointment several weeks ahead, as slots are often a month or more out.
- 05
Should I apply to the Netherlands if visiting several countries?
Only if the Netherlands is your main destination (most nights), or your first entry point if your time is evenly split — for example flying into Amsterdam before travelling on. Otherwise apply to your actual main destination.
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