Venue & travel / Visa information
Entering the Netherlands.
Practical guidance for the 31 countries’ worth of delegates travelling to Rotterdam. This page is a starting point, always confirm requirements with your national embassy or consulate.
Schengen area
The Netherlands is part of the Schengen area.
Delegates from countries within the Schengen area, or from countries with visa-free short-stay access, can typically enter the Netherlands for the conference without a visa. Delegates from other countries will generally need a Schengen short-stay (type C) visa, applied for through the Dutch embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
Processing times vary by country and by season, applying at least 6–8 weeks before travel is strongly recommended.
Invitation letters
Registered delegates who need a formal invitation letter to support their visa application can request one after completing registration. Letters confirm your registration, the conference dates and the Rotterdam venue.
Step by step
Planning your visa application.
- 01
Check your requirement
Confirm whether your nationality needs a Schengen visa for a short stay in the Netherlands via your national government’s travel advisory.
- 02
Register for the conference
Complete your CAETS 2027 registration, this is a prerequisite for requesting an official invitation letter.
- 03
Request your invitation letter
Contact the organising team with your registration reference to receive a signed invitation letter for your application.
- 04
Apply early
Book your embassy or consulate appointment well ahead of September 2027, some locations have long appointment lead times.
This page provides general guidance only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Requirements change and vary by nationality, always confirm current rules with the Dutch embassy or consulate responsible for your country of residence before booking travel.