When it is possible
- Serious illness – yours or of a close relative
- Force majeure, such as no way to travel home
- A very important personal reason
- A cancelled flight alone is not enough
Extension
Extend your stay in the Netherlands
Only possible in special and unexpected situations – while your current visa is still valid.
What you need
- At least €55 per person per day – or a sponsor
- Medical insurance of at least €30,000
- A passport valid 3 months after departure
- No more than 180 days in total
Limits
How long can you stay?
Extension limits
Visa shorter than 90 daysExtension to 90 days in total
Visa or visa-free term of 90 daysUp to 90 more days – only in exceptional cases
Maximum in the Schengen area180 days in total
After an extensionValid only for the Benelux
Surinamese nationals aged 60+One extension per stay – no special reason needed
Multiple entry
Change single entry to multiple entry
When it is possible
- A new, unexpected reason to travel more often
- Unknown when you applied for the visa
- Same purpose as your original visa
- No more days than your current visa allows
Your new visa
- Valid for 1 year up to 5 years
- Never longer than your passport
- Days can be split over several trips
- 90 days in any 180 always applies
Overstay
What if you stay too long?
Entry ban
An overstay can lead to an entry ban for the whole EU.
Future visas
An overstay is recorded and weighs heavily in future applications.
Act in time
Apply for an extension before your visa or visa-free term ends.
FAQ
Questions about extensions
Can I extend my visa because I want to stay longer?
No. A wish to stay longer is not enough – there must be a special and unexpected situation.
My flight was cancelled. Can I extend?
Only if there is no other way home – another airline or airport is considered first.
Can I work during the extension?
No. The same rules apply as for your original visa.
Other routes
Staying longer than 90 days?
Family
Family reunification
Bring your children and family members to the Netherlands.
family-visa.nl Open website FamilyPartner visa
A residence permit for your spouse or long-term partner.
partner-visa.nl Open website StudyStudent visa
Study at a Dutch university or college.
study-visa.nl Open website WorkHighly Skilled Migrant
The fastest work route, for professionals hired by an IND recognised sponsor.
hsmvisa.nl Open websiteInformation valid for 2026, based on ind.nl, netherlandsworldwide.nl and the EU Visa Code. Fees and rules can change – always check the latest information with us or on ind.nl.