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Netherlands Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghanistan citizens require a Schengen visa to travel to the Netherlands — apply through VFS Global or the embassy with required documents, fees, and biometrics; expect processing times of around 15 working days.

Guide last updated July 25, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in the Netherlands and have at least two blank pages. It should have been issued within the last 10 years.
  • Visa Application Form: The standard Schengen visa application form, completed accurately and signed. This is usually available for download from the VFS Global website or the Netherlands embassy.
  • Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs. Specifications: 35x45 mm, white or light background, face clearly visible, neutral expression, no head coverings unless for religious reasons.
  • Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay. This typically includes bank statements for the last 3-6 months showing regular income and a minimum balance of €45 per day of stay, or a sponsor's declaration of financial responsibility (Verbintenis tot Tenlasteneming/Guarantor's statement) if applicable. For tourist stays, a minimum of €45 per person per day is generally expected.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in the Netherlands stating their address.
  • Return Ticket: A confirmed return flight reservation or ticket.
  • Travel Health Insurance: Mandatory. It must cover medical expenses and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of €30,000, valid in all Schengen states for the entire duration of your stay.
  • Biometrics: Fingerprints and a digital photograph are required for visa applications (unless exempted). This is usually collected at the visa application center (e.g., VFS Global).
  • Proof of Employment/Studies: A letter from your employer stating your position, salary, and approved leave, or a letter from your educational institution confirming enrollment and leave of absence.

Visa types

  • Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C):
  • Official Name: Uniform Schengen Visa.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Entry: Single or multiple entry, depending on the application.
  • Approximate Fee: €80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6-12, free for children under 6.
  • Schengen Business Visa (Type C):
  • Official Name: Uniform Schengen Visa.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Entry: Single or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: €80 for adults.
  • Schengen Visa for Visiting Family/Friends (Type C):
  • Official Name: Uniform Schengen Visa.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Entry: Single or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: €80 for adults.
  • Schengen Student Visa (Short-term study/exchange program up to 90 days):
  • Official Name: Uniform Schengen Visa.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Entry: Single or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: €80 for adults.
  • Work Visa (Long-stay visa, National Visa D - for stays longer than 90 days):
  • This is a national visa for longer stays and requires a different application process, often initiated by the employer in the Netherlands. The Schengen visa fee does not apply directly, but there are separate national visa fees.

How to apply

  • Application Submission: Most visa applications for the Netherlands from Afghanistan are handled through VFS Global, the outsourced visa application service provider. You will need to book an appointment online through the VFS Global website for the Netherlands visa application center.
  • Document Preparation: Gather all required documents as listed in the 'What you need' section. Ensure all documents are translated into Dutch or English by a certified translator if they are not already.
  • Application Form: Complete the Schengen visa application form accurately and honestly. You can usually download this form from the VFS Global website.
  • VFS Global Appointment: Attend your scheduled appointment at the VFS Global center. During the appointment, you will submit your application form and all supporting documents, pay the visa fee and VFS service fee, and provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
  • Visa Fee Payment: The visa fee is payable at the VFS Global center. Payment is typically accepted in USD, but it's advisable to check the exact accepted currencies and payment methods with VFS Global beforehand.
  • Processing: After submission, your application will be forwarded to the Netherlands Embassy or Consulate for processing. The standard processing time is approximately 15 working days, but can take longer depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances.
  • Collection: You will be notified when a decision has been made on your application. You can collect your passport and visa from the VFS Global center, or opt for a courier service if available.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa Fee: €80 per adult (subject to change). For children aged 6-11, €40. Free for children under 6.
  • VFS Global Service Fee: Approximately €30-€40 per applicant (this fee is in addition to the visa fee and is subject to change). Check VFS Global's website for the exact current service fee.
  • Total Estimated Cost: Around €110-€120 per adult, plus any translation or courier fees.
  • Standard Processing Time: Approximately 15 working days. However, during peak seasons or for complex cases, it can take up to 45 days.
  • Express/Priority Option: The Netherlands does not typically offer an official express or priority visa processing service for short-stay Schengen visas from Afghanistan. All applications are processed based on standard timelines.
  • Payment Method: Visa and service fees are typically paid in cash (USD or EUR) at the VFS Global center. Confirm acceptable payment methods when booking your appointment.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply Well in Advance: It is highly recommended to apply for your visa at least 6 weeks before your intended travel date, but no earlier than six months before your trip. This accounts for appointment availability and processing times.
  • Common Rejection Reasons: For applicants from Afghanistan, common reasons for visa rejection include: insufficient financial proof, lack of clear ties to Afghanistan (e.g., employment or family), incomplete or inconsistent application documents, and doubts about the applicant's intention to return to Afghanistan. Providing strong evidence of your return intentions is crucial.
  • VFS Global vs. Direct Embassy Application: In most cases, direct application at the Netherlands Embassy in Kabul is not possible for Schengen visa applications. You must apply through the designated visa application center, which is VFS Global. Ensure you use the official VFS Global website.
  • Travel Advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories issued by your country of residence and the Netherlands government. Current advisories for Afghanistan generally recommend extreme caution or avoiding travel to Afghanistan due to security risks. While this doesn't directly impact visa applications from outside Afghanistan, it's important to be aware of the general security situation.
  • Extension Options: Extending a short-stay Schengen visa within the Netherlands is only possible in exceptional, unforeseen circumstances (e.g., serious illness or force majeure). It is not generally possible to extend a visa for extended tourism or business purposes. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you will likely need to apply for a different type of visa or permit from outside the Schengen area before your departure.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.