Nigeria → Netherlands: do you need a visa?

Tourist / Family Visit Visa (Schengen C)

Documents

• Completed and signed Schengen visa application form with unique online code (print and submit)
• Valid travel document: not older than 10 years, at least 2 blank pages, valid at least 3 months after departure from Schengen, signed
• Colour copies of biometric data page, last page (Indian nationals), and prior Schengen entry/exit stamps
• Recent colour photo per Dutch requirements (3.5 x 4.5 cm, white/light background, max 6 months old; digital photo taken at VFS appointment if applying via provider)
• Proof of legal residence in country of application (passport, residence permit valid 3+ months after Schengen departure, visa or work permit)
• Proof of social/economic ties: employment contract + employer leave letter + 3 months payslips; or company registration + business bank statements + tax return; or pension statements; or school enrollment statement
• Cover letter stating reason, duration, fellow travellers, transport and accommodation
• Proof of accommodation for the whole trip (hotel/rental/campus reservations; per-country proof if multi-country)
• Proof of funds: personal bank statements of past 3 months (stamped/signed) and/or income tax returns of last 2 years
• Travel reservation in applicant name (no paid ticket required) plus travel plan or organised-tour booking
• Travel medical insurance in applicant name covering all Schengen states for whole stay, minimum EUR 30,000 (hospital, emergency, medication, repatriation)
• For minors under 18: birth-certificate extract, notarised parental consent, custody/court papers, parent ID copies, parent visa copy or death certificate as applicable

FAQ

How long can I stay on this visa?
A Schengen C visa allows at most 90 days of stay within any 180-day period in the Schengen area. The sticker may show a shorter validity tied to your itinerary.

Where and when do I apply?
Apply at the VFS Global/TLScontact centre or Dutch mission competent for your country of residence, up to 6 months before travel (9 months for seafarers) and at least 15 calendar days before departure. Book the appointment yourself to avoid unnecessary costs.

Can I work on a tourist visa?
No. A Schengen tourist/family-visit visa does not permit paid work in the Netherlands. Anyone planning to work needs the appropriate IND work residence permit, usually with an MVV long-stay visa.