Dutch Consular and Visa Policy Director Visits Turquie | News Article

The delegation touched on measures taken to expedite the visa application process, as well as a wide range of topics such as asylum, immigration and consular assistance and services to nationals abroad.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a sharp increase in visa applications worldwide, initially creating a demand for visas that exceeded our ability to efficiently process the number of applications. The problem is not unique to the Netherlands, but unfortunately has affected travelers from Turkiye and other countries who require a visa to enter the Schengen area. Since then, in an effort to normalize the visa process, solving fundamental practical problems, such as staff capacity and IT issues, has become a priority. Priority will also be given to applications from Turkiye and other countries with longer wait times.

As a result, waiting times have been significantly reduced. This is by no means a political issue.

Turkiye has the highest number of Dutch short stay visa applications worldwide, with 38,290 visas issued in 2022. Approximately 90,000 applications are expected in 2023. Currently, the average time to get a visa appointment is around 5.5 weeks, but recently it has taken 7-8 weeks. Wait times vary by season (summer is longer than winter). Decisions are typically made within 15 days.

We will do our best to reduce the waiting time. The Dutch Mission in Turkiye has established a permanent Long Stay Fast Track for businessmen, intellectual migrants and students with a dedicated email address for booking requests. Students on short stays (mainly Erasmus+) are also accepted if necessary.

In the aftermath of last February’s devastating earthquake, the Netherlands has decided to simplify the Schengen visa application process for people from earthquake-affected areas recuperating with family (first and second degree relatives) living in the Netherlands. . In this regard, more than 900 short-stay visas have been issued.

Also pay attention to the rejection rate. Visa application denials were often due to incomplete submitted applications. While the ultimate responsibility for submitting a complete application is on the applicant to increase the chances of a successful application, embassies and consulates general have taken a proactive stance by advising: . Applicant on this issue. As a result, the rejection rate of applications from Turkiye has dropped significantly.

As part of the program, Mr. Nieuwenhaus also visited the Citizen Integration Base of VFS and the consular departments of both the Ankara Embassy and the Istanbul Consulate General to speak with staff about operational procedures and challenges faced.