UPDATE 06-18-2025
Resumption of Limited Nonimmigrant Visa Services
The U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam is resuming limited nonimmigrant visa services beginning in July. Available appointments can be scheduled on our Global Support Services (GSS) website . Please note we expect increased wait times or limited appointment availability for the remainder of 2025 due to ongoing construction activity at the consulate.
03-03-2025 Important Announcement: Temporary Interruption of Visa Services at the U.S. Consulate in Amsterdam
The U.S. Consulate in Amsterdam has announced that no visa services will be available from March through May 2025 due to a planned building upgrade project. This interruption is necessary for the long-term benefits of the consulate but will have a significant short-term impact on visa services. During this period, visa applicants must submit their applications at other U.S. embassies or consulates abroad. Starting in June 2025, limited visa appointments will be available, but due to these delays, wait times and appointment availability are expected to be significantly affected throughout the year 2025.
In this blog, we explain what this means for Dutch and European businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals who depend on visa services for entry to the United States. We discuss the options, risks, and how Van Holland Group can help bridge these challenges.
Reasons for the Interruption
The U.S. consulate in Amsterdam is undertaking a large-scale building upgrade project, which is crucial for the long term. However, it will greatly impact visa services in the short term. For three months, no visa appointments will be possible at the U.S. Consulate in Amsterdam.
According to the official statement from the consulate, visa applicants can access services at other U.S. embassies or consulates abroad during this period. However, this brings additional costs and logistical challenges, especially for companies and entrepreneurs reliant on quick access to the U.S. market.
Impact on Visa Applications in 2025
The temporary closure of the consulate in Amsterdam will have several significant consequences:
- Limited appointment availability: From June 2025, limited visa appointments will be available in Amsterdam. The consulate warns that wait times will be significantly longer, not only in Amsterdam but possibly at other consulates due to increased demand.
- Non-transferable MRV fees: Another important point is that visa application fees (MRV fees) are non-transferable or refundable. If you already have an appointment scheduled in Amsterdam and decide to cancel it to make an appointment elsewhere, you will have to pay the fees again.
- Additional travel and accommodation costs: For visa applicants who want to make an appointment at a consulate in another country, additional costs will be involved, such as airfare, accommodation, and possibly extra days off work.
- Impact on business travel and immigration plans: For businesses and entrepreneurs, delays in visa services can lead to postponements in business travel, immigration plans, and even the establishment of new branches in the U.S. This is especially relevant for companies dependent on specific visa types like the E-2 investor visa or H-1B work visas.
What are the alternatives?
Despite the challenging situation, there are alternatives available to minimize the impact. Below are the key options:
- Make an appointment at another consulate: During the closure period, you can submit a visa application at another U.S. consulate or embassy. Popular alternatives for Dutch applicants include consulates in Belgium (Brussels), Germany (Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin), and France (Paris).
- Plan your application in advance: If you already know you will need a visa in 2025, it is important to plan your application as early as possible. Take into account longer wait times and limited availability of appointments.
- Consider an emergency visa: For urgent travel, you can apply for an emergency visa, though this is only available for specific situations, such as medical emergencies or humanitarian reasons.
- Seek expert advice: The visa application process can be complex, especially if you need to do it in another country. Experts like Van Holland Group can assist with planning your application, choosing the right consulate, and avoiding common mistakes.
How Van Holland Group Can Help
Van Holland Group has years of experience assisting businesses and individuals in accessing the U.S. market. Our visa services include:
- E-2 Visa Business Plans: We provide comprehensive support in drafting a business plan that meets the requirements of the U.S. Consulate.
- Advice on Alternative Consulates: We can help you select a suitable consulate in another country, including guidance through the application process.
- Logistical Support: Assistance with travel planning, appointment scheduling, and preparation of necessary documents.
- Legal and Tax Advice: We collaborate with American legal specialists to ensure your application meets all legal requirements.
Important Tips for Visa Applicants
Here are some practical tips to minimize the impact of the closure of the U.S. Consulate in Amsterdam:
- Check Wait Times at Other Consulates: Before making an appointment at another consulate, it’s important to check the wait times. Some consulates may have shorter wait times than others.
- Consider Additional Costs: Plan your budget carefully, considering the extra travel and accommodation expenses if you need to travel to another country for your visa application.
- Keep Your MRV Payment Safe: If you wish to reschedule your visa appointment in Amsterdam to a later date, make sure to keep your MRV payment receipt. It is valid for 365 days from the purchase date.
– Work with an Expert: Applying for a visa can be a time-consuming and stressful process. By partnering with an experienced firm like Van Holland Group, you can ensure your application process runs smoothly.
Contact the Van Holland Group
Do you need assistance with your visa application or want to know more about the impact of the consulate closure in Amsterdam? Contact Van Holland Group for expert advice and support.
– Schedule a TEAMS video call at your convenience.
– Contact us by phone at +1 (786) 233-6384
– Or email us at: info@vanhollandgroup.com
Don’t let your visa application stall due to this temporary interruption—we are here to help you!
