If you are planning to apply for a Schengen visa in Qatar to visit The Netherlands, you must submit your application at the VFS Global’s office on Oqba Bin Nafie street. The easiest and most convenient way to get there is to take the red subway line from Musheireb metro station to Oqba Bin Nafie station. Just a few meters from the metro station you will see the VFS Global building (opposite of Shoprite). The office is on the 2nd floor, but you have to go through security on the 1st floor to enter the 2nd floor of the building.
I started my visa application by making an appointment on the VFS Global website. I had to select Qatar as my application country and the Netherlands as my destination when I first entered their website. The next step is to select “Schedule an Appointment,” and in order to move forward with this, you must first create an account. You also need to pay QAR 77.00 for VFS Service Charge. Keep in mind to write down your login information because you will need it later.
The next step is to complete the application form after setting up an appointment . On their website, I had difficulty finding the application form, but I’ll simplify the process for you. To continue filling out the application form, you must first create a new account by clicking here. Just to make it clear, you need to create 2 separate accounts for setting an appointment and to fill-in the online application form. You can use the same email address so it will be easier for you to remember your login details. The online application form tab is located at the most lower part of the page.
Once you’ve booked an appointment and completed the application form, the next step is to gather all the documents needed to apply for a visa.
LOCATION MAP
What are the documents you need for visa application?
- Completed and signed Schengen Visa Application Form
- Original Passport or other travel document
- Evidence of legal residence or QID copy (should be valid at least 3 months after departure from Schengen)
- NOC or Salary Certificate addressed to The Netherlands Embassy (signed and stamped)
- Proof of Travel (Travel Itinerary)
- Hotel Reservations
- Air Tickets (return ticket)
- Bank Statement of the last 3 months
- Apartment Lease Contract copy or Car Ownership or lease if available
- Proof of Health Insurance (at least Eur 30,000 cover)
- Copy of previously issued visas and a copy of all entry/exit stamps
- Payment for the visa fee (QAR 310, I advise you bring cash payment with you)
*** There is no need to bring a photo with you as they will take photo of you in their office after doing the biometrics.
Tip: I booked my hotel at Booking.com as they have option to cancel my reservations without charging me anything.
Booking.com
The above mentioned required documents shall be submitted on the date of your appointment.
According to the VFS personnel, the approval or denial of a visa application will come within 15 working days, therefore it is recommended that you make planning and apply early.
What to bring when collecting the passport?
Once the passport is available, they will call you for collection. You will be notified as well through e-mail. Do not forget to bring the original copy of the receipt, QID and authorization letter (if you will ask someone to collect your passport on your behalf)..
In my case, it took 13 working days before I received a call to collect my passport and I got lucky that I was issued a visa for 15 days stay even though I requested only for 7 days.
Track your Visa Application
When the decision about your visa application has been made, you will be informed through email.
If you don’t have regular or easy access to email, choose SMS updates (for an additional cost).
Also, you may follow the progress of your online visa application. To access this service, enter your last name and the reference number included on the invoice or receipt sent by the Visa Application Centre.
