This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about UK visa from Netherlands in 2026, including the latest fees in Euros, ETA requirements for Dutch citizens, and visa requirements for Indians and other non-EU residents. The Netherlands is one of the UK's closest European partners, with over 2.5 million Dutch visits and £1.4 billion tourism spend in 2024. Whether you're a Dutch citizen needing an ETA for a short visit or an Indian national requiring a visa, this guide provides current fees, application process, and expert tips for your UK journey.
The ties between the Netherlands and Britain run remarkably deep—William III of Orange became King of England in 1689 during the Glorious Revolution, uniting the two nations under one crown. This Anglo-Dutch partnership has shaped European history for over 400 years, from the rival trading empires of the 17th century to modern-day cooperation. Today, approximately 100,000 Dutch nationals live in the UK, while around 50,000 British citizens call the Netherlands home. The Eurostar connection from Amsterdam to London (just 4 hours) makes cross-Channel travel easier than ever—though you'll now need an ETA before boarding.
UK Visa from Netherlands: Complete Guide 2026
The UK visa from Netherlands requirements have changed significantly since Brexit. Dutch citizens no longer enjoy freedom of movement but remain visa-free for short visits of up to 6 months. However, from April 2, 2025, Dutch citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK. Non-EU nationals residing in the Netherlands, such as Indian, Pakistani, or Bangladeshi passport holders, must apply for a Standard Visitor visa for any UK trip.
UK Entry Requirements for Dutch Citizens
Dutch citizens need: (1) a valid passport, (2) an approved ETA (€19), and (3) the ability to demonstrate they are genuine visitors who will leave the UK within 6 months. No visa is required for tourism, family visits, or business meetings. For work, study, or longer stays, Dutch citizens must apply for the appropriate visa using the UK Immigration: ID Check app for biometrics.
The UK entry requirements for Dutch citizens are straightforward for short visits but have changed since Brexit. Dutch nationals can no longer use EU/EEA lanes at UK airports and must go through passport control like other non-EU visitors.
What Do Dutch Citizens Need to Enter the UK?
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for duration of stay (no minimum validity requirement)
- Approved ETA: €19, valid for 2 years, apply via UK ETA app
- Return/Onward Travel: Evidence of return flights, Eurostar tickets, or onward journey
- Accommodation: Hotel booking or host's address in UK
- Sufficient Funds: Ability to support yourself without working
- Genuine Visitor: Intent to leave within 6 months, not live in UK
At the UK border, officers may ask about your travel plans, accommodation, and funds. While detailed questioning is rare for Dutch visitors, having your hotel booking and return ticket details accessible on your phone can speed up the process. For comprehensive information about what's allowed during your visit, see our guide on permitted activities for UK visitors.
Do I Need a Visa for UK from Netherlands?
It depends on your nationality. Dutch citizens do not need a visa for short visits—only an ETA (€19). Non-EU residents in the Netherlands (Indians, Pakistanis, etc.) need a Standard Visitor visa (€152) regardless of their Dutch residence status. For work or study exceeding 6 months, all nationalities need the appropriate visa.
The answer to whether you need a visa depends entirely on your passport. The UK's immigration system is nationality-based, meaning your Dutch residence permit (verblijfsvergunning) does not change your visa requirements—only your passport nationality matters.
UK Visa Requirements by Nationality (from Netherlands)
For more information about the ETA system and exemptions, see our comprehensive guide on the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.
UK Tourist Visa from Netherlands
Dutch citizens do not need a tourist visa—they only need an ETA (€19) for tourism visits up to 6 months. Non-EU residents in the Netherlands need a Standard Visitor visa (€152) for any UK tourist visit. Both categories allow tourism, sightseeing, and visiting friends/family. Apply via the UK ETA app (Dutch citizens) or VFS Global Amsterdam (non-EU nationals).
The term "UK tourist visa from Netherlands" can mean different things depending on your nationality. Dutch passport holders visiting as tourists only need an ETA, while non-EU nationals residing in the Netherlands must apply for a Standard Visitor visa.
What Can You Do as a Tourist in the UK?
With an ETA or Standard Visitor visa, you can undertake the following permitted activities:
- Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting attractions, attending events and festivals
- Family visits: Visiting friends and relatives in the UK
- Business activities: Meetings, conferences, negotiations (no paid work)
- Short courses: Study up to 30 days (or 6 months if not the main purpose)
- Private medical treatment: Receiving healthcare at UK private facilities
- Transit: Passing through the UK to another destination
If you plan multiple visits, consider a long-term visitor visa (2, 5, or 10 years) which allows unlimited entries during its validity period.
UK Visa from Netherlands Fees 2026 (in Euros)
UK visa from Netherlands fees in 2026 start at €19 for an ETA (Dutch citizens) and €152 for a 6-month Standard Visitor visa (non-EU residents). Skilled Worker visas cost €922-€1,821, Student visas cost €628, and Spouse visas cost €2,323. All fees are paid in Euros and are non-refundable.
The UK visa fees are set by the Home Office and converted to Euros for applicants in the Netherlands and other Eurozone countries. The fees below are current as of January 2026:
Visit Visa Fees from Netherlands
Work, Study & Family Visa Fees from Netherlands
UK Visa from Netherlands for Indian
Indian nationals in the Netherlands pay €152 for a 6-month UK Standard Visitor visa in 2026. Your Dutch residence permit (verblijfsvergunning) does not grant visa-free UK access but can strengthen your application by demonstrating ties to the Netherlands. Apply through VFS Global Amsterdam—processing takes approximately 3 weeks.
The UK visa from Netherlands for Indian nationals follows the same process as applying from India, but with the advantage of demonstrating established residence in a European country. The Netherlands is home to approximately 65,000+ Indian nationals, many working in Amsterdam's technology sector, Rotterdam's port industry, and Eindhoven's high-tech ecosystem.
Documents Required for Indians in Netherlands
- Valid Indian passport with at least 6 months validity
- Dutch residence permit (verblijfsvergunning) valid beyond return date
- Bank statements (6 months) from Dutch bank account
- Employment letter from Dutch employer confirming leave
- Travel itinerary and UK accommodation bookings
- Proof of ties to Netherlands (property, family, ongoing employment)
- Sponsor's invitation letter if staying with family/friends in UK
For information about potential refusal reasons and how to avoid them, see our guide on UK visa refusal reasons. If your visa is refused, our guide on chances of getting a visa after refusal explains your options.
UK Work Visa from Netherlands
Dutch citizens need a work visa to work in the UK since Brexit. The main route is the Skilled Worker visa (€922-€1,821), requiring sponsorship from a UK employer and a minimum salary of £41,700 (from July 2025). Dutch citizens can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app for biometrics—no VAC visit needed. Alternative routes include the Youth Mobility Scheme (ages 18-35) and Health and Care Worker visa (€364).
Since Brexit, Dutch citizens cannot work in the UK without a work visa. The freedom of movement that previously allowed Dutch nationals to live and work in the UK ended on 31 December 2020. However, Dutch citizens benefit from being able to submit biometrics via smartphone app rather than visiting a Visa Application Centre.
Skilled Worker Visa from Netherlands
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for Dutch nationals seeking employment in the UK. You need a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence.
- Visa Fee: €922 (up to 3 years) or €1,821 (over 3 years)
- Minimum Salary: £41,700 per year (general threshold from July 2025)
- IHS: £1,035/year (exempt for Health and Care Worker visa)
- Sponsor Required: Yes, employer must have valid sponsor licence
- Biometrics: Via UK Immigration: ID Check app (no VAC visit needed for Dutch citizens)
- Settlement: Eligible for ILR after 5 years
Youth Mobility Scheme from Netherlands
Dutch citizens aged 18-35 may be eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, allowing them to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years without needing a job offer or sponsor. Places are limited and allocated by ballot. The visa costs €382 plus IHS (discounted rate of £776/year).
Student Visa from Netherlands
Dutch nationals who wish to study in the UK for longer than 6 months need a Student visa. Short courses of up to 6 months can be undertaken on an ETA without needing a visa.
- Visa Fee: €628
- CAS Required: Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from licensed institution
- IHS: £776/year (discounted student rate)
- Work Rights: Up to 20 hours per week during term time
- Biometrics: Via UK Immigration: ID Check app (no VAC visit needed for Dutch citizens)
- Post-Study: Graduate visa allows 2 years work after completing degree (reducing to 18 months from January 2027)
How to Apply for UK Visa from Netherlands
The UK visa application from Netherlands process differs depending on whether you're a Dutch citizen or a non-EU national residing in the Netherlands.
For Dutch Citizens (ETA or Visa Applications)
For ETA: Simply download the UK ETA app and complete the application in minutes. No appointment needed.
For Work/Study/Family Visas: Dutch citizens can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to submit biometrics from home—no Visa Application Centre visit required. Complete your online application at gov.uk, pay the fee, then use the app to scan your passport and take a selfie.
For Non-EU Nationals in Netherlands
UK visa applications from non-EU nationals in the Netherlands are processed through VFS Global, which replaced TLScontact as the official visa service provider in January 2025. You must complete the online application form, pay the fee, and then book an appointment at the Visa Application Centre in Amsterdam.
Website: visa.vfsglobal.com/nld/en/gbr
Services: Biometric enrolment, document submission, premium services
Note: This is the only UK visa application centre in the Netherlands
- Step 1: Complete online application at gov.uk
- Step 2: Pay the visa fee online (in Euros)
- Step 3 (Dutch): Use UK Immigration: ID Check app for biometrics
- Step 3 (Non-EU): Book biometrics at VFS Global Amsterdam
- Step 4: Submit supporting documents online or at VAC
- Step 5: Wait for decision (3 weeks standard, 5 days priority)
- Step 6: Receive eVisa or collect passport with vignette
UK Visa Processing Time from Netherlands
Standard UK visa processing time from the Netherlands is approximately 3 weeks for visitor visas and other non-settlement applications. Settlement visas (spouse, family) take up to 12 weeks. Priority service (€599) reduces visitor visa processing to 5 working days. Super Priority (€1,199) aims for next working day decisions, subject to availability.
For detailed information on UK visa processing times after biometrics, including what happens if there are delays, see our comprehensive guide. If your application is taking longer than expected, our guide on UK visa delays explains your options including priority visa services.
- Dutch citizens need an ETA (€19) — apply via UK ETA app, strictly enforced from 25 February 2026
- Dutch citizens can use UK Immigration: ID Check app for visa biometrics — no VAC visit needed
- Indians and other non-EU residents pay €152 for 6-month Standard Visitor visa
- Work visas require sponsorship; minimum salary £41,700 (from July 2025)
- VFS Global Amsterdam is the only UK visa centre in Netherlands
- Standard processing takes approximately 3 weeks
For the latest official information on UK entry requirements, visit the gov.uk visa checker or the Standard Visitor visa guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for UK from Netherlands?
It depends on your nationality. Dutch citizens do not need a visa for short visits (up to 6 months)—only an ETA (€19) obtained via the UK ETA app. Non-EU residents in the Netherlands (Indians, Pakistanis, etc.) need a Standard Visitor visa (€152) regardless of their Dutch residence status. Your Dutch residence permit does not grant visa-free UK access.
How much is UK visa from Netherlands in 2026?
UK visa from Netherlands fees in 2026 are: ETA €19 (Dutch citizens), Standard Visitor visa (6 months) €152, 2-year visitor visa €569, Student visa €628, Skilled Worker visa €922-€1,821, and Spouse visa €2,323. Priority processing costs an additional €599, Super Priority €1,199. All fees are in Euros and non-refundable.
How do Indians in Netherlands apply for UK visa?
Indian nationals in the Netherlands apply through VFS Global Amsterdam. Complete the online application at gov.uk, pay the €152 fee, book a biometrics appointment at VFS Global (Kabelweg 57-81, Amsterdam), and submit your documents including your Dutch residence permit. Processing takes approximately 3 weeks. Your Dutch residence can strengthen your application by demonstrating ties.
Do Dutch citizens need ETA for Eurostar to London?
Yes, Dutch citizens need an approved ETA before boarding the Eurostar from Amsterdam to London. The ETA requirement applies regardless of your mode of transport—whether by train, plane, or ferry. From 25 February 2026, Eurostar will not allow Dutch passengers to board without a valid ETA. Apply via the UK ETA app at least 3 days before travel.
Can Dutch citizens work in the UK without a visa?
No, since Brexit, Dutch citizens cannot work in the UK without a work visa. The main route is the Skilled Worker visa (€922-€1,821), which requires sponsorship from a UK employer with a valid licence and meeting the £41,700 minimum salary threshold (from July 2025). Dutch citizens aged 18-35 may also qualify for the Youth Mobility Scheme. Business meetings on an ETA are permitted but not paid employment.
Where is the UK visa application centre in Netherlands?
The UK Visa Application Centre in the Netherlands is operated by VFS Global and located at: VIDA, 6th Floor, Kabelweg 57-81, 1014 BA Amsterdam. This is the only UK visa application centre in the Netherlands. VFS Global took over from TLScontact in January 2025. Dutch citizens applying for work/study visas can skip the VAC and use the UK Immigration: ID Check app instead.
How long does UK visa processing take from Netherlands?
UK visitor visa processing from the Netherlands typically takes 3 weeks from your biometrics appointment. Work and study visas take 3-8 weeks, while family/settlement visas can take up to 12 weeks. Priority service (€599) aims for 5 working days, and Super Priority (€1,199) aims for next working day decisions. ETAs are typically processed within 3 working days, often within minutes.
What is the difference between UK ETA app and UK Immigration: ID Check app?
The UK ETA app is for applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation—used by Dutch citizens for short visits (tourism, family, business) up to 6 months. The UK Immigration: ID Check app is for submitting biometrics when applying for visas (work, study, family visas). Dutch citizens use the ETA app for visits and the ID Check app when they need an actual visa for longer stays or work purposes.