Locate the Netherlands embassy or consulate nearest you to determine the office at which you will need to process your visa application (see link in Resources). Your completed visa application and travel documents must be submitted here in person.
Complete a visa application form. It can be downloaded and printed but must be signed in front of a visa officer (see link in Resources).
Provide the following forms of identification: A valid passport with a blank page for the Netherlands visa, and one 2-by-2 inch passport photo no more than 3 months old. It can be in color or black and white and must be a frontal portrait of the face without any glasses or headwear, taken against a light background. You must also provide an alien registration card (a "green card"), advance parole document or a valid I-94 departure record. Students are required to submit an original validated I-20, DS-2019 or IAP-66.
Present a confirmed itinerary or airline reservation with your application. You will later be required to show an airline ticket once your visa has been approved.
Provide proof of sufficient funds in the form of three recent bank statements or signed traveler's checks. You will also be asked for three recent pay stubs or an original letter of employment. Tax return forms and business licenses are also accepted if you are self-employed.
Show proof establishing the purpose of your trip. Submit a hotel reservation complete with a confirmation number if the purpose is tourism. A copy of your relatives' or friends' Dutch passport or Dutch residence card is necessary if you are staying with friends and family. For business, present a letter from your employer stating your position in the company and the purpose of your business trip to the Netherlands.
Submit your complete visa application, required documents and form of payment to your local Netherlands Embassy or Consulate. Visa fees vary depending on the type, duration of visit and exchange rate between the Euro and your country's currency (see link in Resources). Payments are non-refundable and payable in cash or money orders only. Pick up your approved visa within 2 weeks or choose to receive it by mail at an extra postage fee.
