Netherlands Visa Update: Colour Copies Now Mandatory for All Applicants
Travellers planning a trip to the Netherlands have an important new requirement to keep in mind. Dutch authorities have tightened application standards, and black-and-white document copies are no longer accepted. From passport pages to bank statements, every supporting document must now be printed in clear, full colour.
This new rule is already in effect and applies to all visa categories.
What’s Changing?
Effective immediately, applicants must include only colour printouts when submitting their visa paperwork. If you bring monochrome or low-quality copies, your application may be delayed—or even returned for correction.
The rule applies to documents such as:
- Passport copies
- Travel itineraries
- Flight and hotel bookings
- Bank statements
- Employment or study proof
- Insurance certificates
- Property documents
- Any other supporting evidence
Why Did the Netherlands Introduce This Rule?
The Dutch visa authorities aim to reduce errors and make document verification faster.
Colour copies help officials:
- Detect tampered documents more easily
- Confirm stamps, seals, signatures, and holograms
- Review information with greater accuracy
- Speed up processing and reduce backlogs
Although some embassy websites have yet to reflect this update, outsourcing partners like VFS Global and TLScontact have already started enforcing the rule strictly.
Ignoring this requirement could mean resubmitting documents, missing your appointment slot, or facing longer processing times.
How Strict Is the Requirement?
Very strict.
Visa centres have made it clear that every page you submit must be in colour, including:
- Bank statements (last 3 months)
- Sponsor documents
- Insurance certificates
- Accommodation proof
- Travel bookings
- Employment letters
- Property records
- Parental consent documents
Avoid faded printouts, cropped pages, unclear scans, or low-resolution files.
Complete List of Documents Required for a Netherlands Visa
Here’s a simplified checklist to help you prepare everything correctly the first time.
- Personal Documentation
- Visa Application Form – Filled online, printed, and signed.
- Passport – Valid for at least 3 months beyond your trip; minimum two blank pages.
- Photographs – Two recent colour photos (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background).
- Proof of Legal Residence – Valid residence/work permit if applying from another country.
- Financial Documents & Proof of Ties
- Employment/Study Proof – Employer letter, school certificate, payslips, or student ID.
- Self-Employed Applicants – Business registration and latest tax documents.
- Bank Statements – Last 3 months, printed in colour.
- Proof of Return – Property deeds, family documents, or anything showing strong home ties.
- Sponsor Documents – If applicable, include their financial proof and ID copies.
- Travel Arrangements
- Flight Itinerary – Entry and exit details (do not buy actual tickets until visa approval).
- Accommodation Proof – Hotel booking, Airbnb confirmation, or host invitation letter.
- Travel Insurance – Coverage of at least €30,000 in the entire Schengen area.
- Additional Documents for Minors
- Birth Certificate – Recent copy.
- Consent Letter – If child is travelling with one parent or alone.
- Parents’ Documents – Colour copies of passports and custody papers if applicable.
How to Avoid Delays
To ensure a smooth experience:
- Print everything in colour
- Bring originals + photocopies
- Review each page for clarity and completeness
- Prepare documents early, especially if appointments are limited
- Stick to official formats and recent printouts
Even small mistakes—like a blurred stamp or a black-and-white page—can slow down your application.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Netherlands visa doesn’t have to be stressful. With the new colour-copy rule in place, organisation is more important than ever. By preparing your documents carefully and following the updated guidelines, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying the canals, tulips, and cycling routes the Netherlands is famous for.
For more details please contact my team. Thanks Regards
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