Are you a Turkish national planning to visit the Netherlands or any other Member State in the Schengen Area? If so, you may be familiar with the challenges associated with obtaining a Schengen visa. Dutch officials have recently addressed the issue of high visa rejection rates for Turkish nationals, shedding light on the main cause: frequently incomplete applications. In this guest post, we will delve into the details of this matter, explaining the Dutch officials' stance and offering recommendations to enhance the visa application process.

Incomplete Applications as the Primary Cause

Dutch authorities have emphasized that the primary reason for the high number of visa rejections for Turkish nationals is incomplete applications. Many Turkish applicants fail to submit all the required documents, leading to a significant increase in the rejection rate. In response to this issue, the Dutch authorities have taken a proactive approach by providing guidance and advice to applicants regarding the necessary documents. While the responsibility to submit a complete application ultimately lies with the applicant, the Dutch Embassy and Consulate General are actively assisting by educating applicants on the importance of fulfilling all requirements.

Recommendations for Turkish Applicants

To mitigate the high rate of visa rejections, the Dutch authorities have strongly recommended that all Turkish applicants ensure they submit complete and accurate applications. This involves carefully reviewing the list of required documents, ensuring all necessary information and details are provided, and verifying the completeness of the application package before submission. By adhering to these guidelines, Turkish nationals can significantly improve their chances of obtaining a Schengen visa successfully.

Visa Application Statistics

According to data from 2022, the highest number of short-stay visa applications for Netherlands Schengen visas originated from Turkey. During that year, the Netherlands granted 38,290 visas to Turkish nationals, highlighting the popularity of the destination among Turkish travelers. The Dutch authorities anticipate a considerable increase in visa applications from Turkey this year, estimating around 90,000 applications. This surge in demand further underscores the importance of ensuring complete applications to avoid unnecessary rejections.

Visa Processing Times and Requirements

Currently, the average time to secure a visa appointment in Turkey is approximately five and a half weeks, with a decision typically made within 15 days after the appointment. As Turkey has not yet reached a visa-free travel agreement with the Schengen Area, all Turkish citizens must obtain a Schengen visa to gain entry.

For Turkish citizens planning a tourist visit to the Netherlands or any other Schengen Member State, a Tourist Schengen Visa is required. This type of visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area. To apply for a Tourist Schengen Visa, applicants need to submit a completed visa application form, their passport, and two recent photos. Additionally, they must provide supporting documents such as proof of accommodation, a roundtrip reservation, travel health insurance, and evidence of financial means.

Conclusion

Dutch officials have clarified that the high Schengen visa rejection rates for Turkish nationals primarily result from frequently incomplete applications rather than political discrimination. By emphasizing the importance of submitting complete applications, the Dutch authorities aim to streamline the visa application process and reduce rejections. Turkish applicants can significantly improve their chances of obtaining a Schengen visa successfully by carefully reviewing the requirements, ensuring all necessary documents and information are provided, and seeking guidance when needed. As the popularity of travel to the Netherlands and the Schengen Area grows among Turkish citizens, it becomes increasingly important to approach the visa application process diligently and with meticulous attention to detail.