Netherlands•EuropeUp to 2 weeks
197 EUR
Up to 3 months
No
Not Required
Not Specified
No
Not Required
Visa for residence permit holders whose permits become invalid during travel abroad. Allows re-entry to Netherlands to resume residence and collect renewed permits.
The Netherlands return visa (terugkeervisum) is a temporary travel document for foreign nationals who hold a Dutch residence permit that is temporarily invalid or expired while they are abroad — typically because a new permit, replacement, or extension is still being processed. The fee is €197.
Valid for up to 3 months (longer in specific cases such as students), it is a single-entry document allowing one return trip to the Netherlands. Applicants must apply at an IND desk in person before leaving the country, submitting proof of residence status and urgency.
This visa is ideal for current Netherlands residents whose permit lapses during international travel and who need legal re-entry to resume their residency.
Must be a current or former resident of the Netherlands.
Must have a valid reason for travel while the residence permit is expired, lost, stolen, or pending renewal.
Must not pose a threat to public order, internal security, or public health.
Must have proof of prior residence status or current eligibility for a permit.
Must have a valid passport or travel document.
Education
none or higher
Valid passport or travel document.
Completed visa application form.
Current or expired residence permit (or proof of loss/theft).
Police report (if the residence permit was stolen or lost).
Appointment code (if applying at an IND desk).
Proof of urgency (e.g., marriage, business, death of a family member).
Passport-sized photograph.
| Application Steps | Check if you need a visa for the Schengen area via official government portals.; Make an appointment… | ind.nl |
| Fee Breakdown | Application fee: 197 EUR | ind.nl |
| Fees | EUR 197 | ind.nl |
| Forms | Return Visa Application | ind.nl |
| Forms · Return Visa Application · url | https://ind.nl/en/make-an-appointment-for-a-return-visa | ind.nl |
| Included Nationalities | — | ind.nl |
| Job Offer Required | false | ind.nl |
| Language Req | None | ind.nl |
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