Netherlands Business Visa: Eligibility, Documentation and Fees

Netherlands Business Visa is perfect for you if you intend to visit the Netherlands for business purposes. With this visa, you can attend corporate and employment or partnership meetings in the Netherlands.

For the most part, a Dutch business visa has the exact requirements as other Schengen visas. Certain nationals are eligible for visa-free entry into the country because it is a Schengen member state. However, this is primarily determined by the length of their stay and the kind of visa they seek. For instance, nationals of some nations are not required to obtain a visa for brief trips for today 90 days, while for some, it is required.

Would you like to know if you’re eligible for a visa-free entry into the Netherlands? Or would you like to know how to obtain a Netherlands business visa for business purposes? Read on to find out more. This blog post clearly explains all the details you need to get a business visa in the Schengen region successfully.

Facts About Business Environment in the Netherlands

Before we begin to tell you how and what documents you need to obtain a Netherlands business visa, you may want to know if the Netherlands is a business-friendly country or not.

To begin, the Netherlands is a nation in northwest Europe with a flat topography home to canals, tulip fields, windmills, and bicycle paths. It has twelve provinces and borders the North Sea on the north and west, Germany to the east, and Belgium to the south.

Regarding business, the Netherlands has one of the most liberal economies in the world and is a leader in technological advancement. Besides having the biggest European port, the Netherlands has a favorable business environment and a skilled labor force. Moreover, the country’s tax system provides several tax incentives to encourage innovation and business activities.

The country ranks second in economic performance. And second in terms of business efficiency, according to the IMD ranking. While in terms of infrastructure, the Netherlands came in seventh and twelve for government effectiveness. With these amazing statistics, you can safely move to the Netherlands for business purposes.

What is Netherlands Business Visa All About?

A Netherlands business visa is a Schengen visa that permits you to stay in Dutch if you intend to attend business-related meetings. Expressly, a Schengen visa permits the holder to travel for a maximum of 90 days within six months throughout the Schengen area, including the Netherlands. It is also called a Schengen short-stay visa or C visa.

Who Needs a Schengen Visa?

Whether or not you need a visa to enter the Netherlands for business purposes is determined mainly by your nationality.

In general, all citizens of third-world countries whose countries do not have a visa agreement with the Netherlands must obtain a business visa before entering Dutch. Also, if you are a country citizen, you must obtain a visa before entering Dutch. Then, you must apply for a business visa.

Citizens of Which Country do not Need a Business Visa for the Netherlands?

Suppose you’re a European citizen, particularly from a Schengen member country. You do not need a business visa to travel to the Netherlands. Also, citizens of Britain (and their families) and those of Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Vatican City, Monaco, and Andorra (and their family members). Can enter the Netherlands without a visa. Besides, if you have an EU residence permit and a Dutch long-stay visa, you can also travel to the Netherlands without restrictions.

Similarly, suppose you are a third-country citizen who works in a key position. In that case, you can also travel to the Dutch territory without a visa.

Documents Needed for Netherlands Business Visa

Submit these documents to apply for a business visa in the Netherlands.

• Complete and sign the Netherlands Business visa application form.
• Submit photographs in line with the Schengen visa guidelines.
• Submit copies of any previous visas, along with all entry/exit stamps.
• Submit the travel schedule of your stay in the Netherlands.
• Provide a passport or valid identity document: An original and photocopies of the personal details page of your passport.
• Provide proof of accommodation throughout your stay in the Netherlands.
• Provide evidence that you have enough money to care for yourself throughout your stay in the Netherlands.
• Provide proof of your health insurance. Make sure it covers your entire stay in the Schengen region.
• Criminal Certificate – Provide proof that you do not have a criminal record or any ongoing criminal case in court.
• Provide proof you will not stay in the Netherlands when you’re done with the purpose of your visit. But you will return to your home country. That is proof that there is no “risk of settlement.” This could be your employment contract, school information, or home rental contract.
• Show evidence that your visit is strictly for business or cultural events, such as – evidence of sponsorship from the person sponsoring you.
• – an invitation letter to attend a conference. –hotel reservation.
• An Invitation from the company you intend to visit when you arrive in the Netherlands. Or the host/organizer of the event or training.
• Proof of paid Dutch Business visa fees

N/B: The required documents may differ depending on your nationality. Make sure you go with all your documents in case additional papers are needed.

Steps to Apply for Netherlands Business Visa

Follow these steps to apply for a Netherlands Business Visa:

Step 1: Check if you need to apply for a business visa to the Netherlands:

The first thing is to check if you’re eligible for a visa-free entry into the Schengen region. If you are, lucky you! But if you’re not, this article is dedicated to guiding you.

Normally, all Citizens from Schengen member countries and citizens from the European Union (EU), Switzerland, or European Economic Area (EEA). Therefore, you do not need a business visa to travel to the Netherlands. In contrast, all citizens from underdeveloped countries require a visa to enter the Netherlands.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

When you have confirmed that you will need a business visa to enter the Netherlands, the next thing is to gather all your documents. Then, refer to the documents in this article to know what is needed.

Step 3: Find out where to Submit your application

When you have gathered and compiled your documents, find out where you will apply.

Generally, you can apply for a Netherlands Business Visa at your nearest Dutch embassy or consulate. However, if your country does not have a Dutch embassy or consulate, find out which Schengen country embassy or consulate handles visa application submissions.

Submit your Netherlands business visa application based on this guide:

1. If you intend to spend the most time in one country, go to the embassy or consulate.
2.  If you spend equal time in each country, go to the embassy or consulate, which will be your first stop.

Step 4: Determine the best time to apply.

Usually, three months before your trip is the earliest you can apply for a Dutch business visa. And 15 working days prior is the latest. However, it is advised that you submit your application at least three weeks before your trip.

Step 5: Schedule an Appointment

You must book an appointment before applying for a Dutch business visa. Depending on the country, you can do this online or in person.

Step 6: Attend the interview

When you have scheduled an appointment, an interview date will be fixed. Make sure you physically attend your appointment with proper paperwork in hand. Remember that you will also pay a non-refundable Dutch Business visa fee on the day of your application. And finally, you will be interviewed.

Step 7: Pay up the Visa Fee

The cost of a Schengen business visa is €80 for each application. However, the amount varies with age. Those not required to pay a fee for a Dutch visa include:

• Children from six years and below
• An academic researcher.
• A relative of an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
• Students or teachers who need to travel for education or training purposes.
• Individuals under the age of 25 who travels to attend events sponsored by nonprofit organizations.

N/B: Visa costs for travel to the Netherlands are liable to change. Ensure you get updated information from Schengen’s official site before traveling.

How long does it take to obtain a business visa for the Netherlands?

Your application for a business visa to the Netherlands may take 15 to 30 working days. Nevertheless, It could take longer in some circumstances and less time in others. So, make sure you speak with the officer handling your application.

Difference Between Family Reunion and Dependent Visa

The difference between the two depends on the country. For instance, Germany has no ‘dependent’ visa like in other countries. Whether it is your legal partner, child, or parents, they all fall under one roof called a family reunion. Whereas in the US, all these are referred to as dependent people. Explicitly, German Law does not categorize relatives as dependents but as family.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get a business visa for the Netherlands?

Follow these steps to obtain a business visa from the Netherlands:

• Check if you need to apply for a business visa to the Netherlands
• Gather your documents
• Find out where to submit your visa application
• Determine the best time to apply.
• Schedule an Appointment
• Attend the Interview
• Pay the visa fee

How long does it take to get a business visa for the Netherlands?

Application for a business visa to the Netherlands takes approximately 15 to 30 working days. Nevertheless, It could take longer in some circumstances and less time in others. So, make sure you speak with the officer handling your application.

Who is eligible for a business visa?

In general, all citizens of third-world countries whose countries do not have a visa agreement with the Netherlands must obtain a business visa before entering Dutch. Except where otherwise stated.

What is a Type D visa for the Netherlands?

The type D visa sticker in your passport, also known as MVV, is valid for only 90 days. Consequently, you must arrive in the Netherlands within 90 days to pick up your residence permit. Remember that you must apply for a new MVV before traveling to the Netherlands.

Conclusion

Finally, a business visa to the Netherlands is an excellent way to expand your business opportunities in Europe. The visa is relatively simple to obtain, but there are a few things you should be aware of before applying. First, prepare all necessary documentation and fees, and be ready for an interview with the consulate. If granted, the Netherlands business visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days to conduct business.