The delegations touched on measures taken to expediate the visa application process, as well as a wide range of other topics such as asylum, migration and consular assistance  and services to overseas citizens.

After the Covid-19 pandemic, a global surge in visa applications led to a demand for visa that initially outweighed the capacity to efficiently handle the number of requests. This issue, although not unique for the Netherlands, regrettably affected travelers from Türkiye and other countries who require a visa to enter the Schengen area. In an effort to return to regularity in our visa process, the resolution of underlying practical problems, such as staff capacity and IT challenges, has since been made a priority. Also, applications from Türkiye and other countries with longer waiting times have been prioritized. 

As a result, waiting times have been reduced significantly. In no way has this been a political matter.

The highest number of short-stay visa applications for the Netherlands worldwide come from Türkiye: in 2022 38.290 visa were granted. In 2023 we expect approximately 90.000 applications. Currently the average time to get a visa appointment is approximately 5,5 weeks, while in the recent past this has been 7-8 weeks. The waiting time fluctuates with the seasons (longer in summer than in winter). Decision-making is normally done within 15 days.

We strive to bring the waiting time down even more. The Netherlands missions in Türkiye have established permanent long-term-stay fast tracks for business people, knowledge migrants and students with dedicated email addresses for appointment requests. Where necessary, short stay (mainly Erasmus+) students are being accommodated as well.

In the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes last February, the Netherlands decided to simplify the process for Schengen visa applications for persons from the affected earthquake area to recuperate with family (first and second degree) residing in the Netherlands. In this respect more than 900 short stay visa were issued. 

Also the refusal rates have our attention. Rejections of visa applications were often based on incomplete applications being handed in. Although the final responsibility to hand in a complete application to increase the chance for it to be successful lies with the applicant, the Embassy and Consulate General have taken a proactive stance by advising applicants on this issue. As a result, the rejection rate for applications from Türkiye has been brought down significantly. 

As part of his program, Mr. Nieuwenhuis also visited the civic integration location of VFS and the consular departments of both the Embassy in Ankara and the Consulate-General Istanbul, where he spoke with staff about operational procedures and challenges faced.