Do I need visa for Amsterdam layover?

Instead, you will need a regular short-stay Schengen visa for the Netherlands. This also applies if you need to transit through another airport within the Schengen Area, other than a Dutch one. Netherlands transit visas are divided into: Netherlands Airport Transit Visa.



Whether you need a visa for a layover at Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) depends on your nationality and whether you plan to leave the airport. If you are from a visa-exempt country (like the US, Canada, or UK), you do not need a visa for a layover; however, starting in late 2026, you will need a valid ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to pass through immigration if you wish to leave the airport and see the city. If you remain in the "International Transit Area" (airside) for a connection to another non-Schengen country, most travelers do not need any visa. However, citizens of certain countries (such as Afghanistan, Nigeria, or Pakistan) must have a Type A Airport Transit Visa even just to stay in the terminal. If your layover involves a flight to another Schengen country (e.g., Amsterdam to Paris), this is considered "entering the country," and you must meet the standard Schengen visa requirements. Always check the official "Netherlands Visa Advisor" tool before travel to confirm your specific situation.

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An airport transit visa is generally required if you travel internationally and if you need to transit through a country. Even if you do not intend to leave the airport, you may need an airport transit visa. Here are some situations when you might need to have an airport transit visa: When you need to recheck bags.

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If you are the holder of a British passport, you do not need a visa to visit the Netherlands. If you have a different nationality and are unsure what the visa requirements are, check whether you need a visa to visit the Netherlands.

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Note that if your connecting flight is to another Schengen area country, you don't need a transit visa. Instead, you will need a regular short-stay Schengen visa for the Netherlands. This also applies if you need to transit through another airport within the Schengen Area, other than a Dutch one.

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You do not require an airport transit visa. Holding a valid visa for the US you can pass through the transit zone of a Dutch airport for onward travel to a destination outside the Schengen area eg the United States.

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For example, you may be required to get a transit visa if: You are changing transport in a country to travel to another destination. You are leaving within a short time from your arrival. You are not eligible for an automatic visa or visa waiver based on your nationality.

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You need your passport. A residence card (from any country) is not a travel document (that can be used to travel to other countries). You will have to show your passport at French immigration control in London St Pancras.

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If you are transferring on a connecting flight to a non-Schengen or non-EU destination, and you stay in the transfer area at Schiphol and depart within 48 hours, make sure you have a valid flight ticket and valid travel documents so that you are able to prove that you are in transit.

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