Netherlands diplomatic mission in Mali
Dutch Embassy in Bamako, Mali
Find the official address, contact details and consular opening hours of the Dutch Embassy in Bamako. Learn how to apply for a Dutch passport or identity card, arrange an appointment, obtain visa information and collect documents in Mali.
Contact
Dutch Embassy in Bamako: Contact Details
Opposite the Save the Children building
Hamdallaye ACI 2000
Bamako
Mali
By appointment only
No appointment required
Important: new consular applications require the appropriate appointment. Completed documents can be collected during separate afternoon hours. Regular Schengen visa applications are handled through VFS Global in Bamako.
Location
Where Is the Dutch Embassy in Bamako?
The Dutch Embassy is located at Rue 250, Porte 31, in the Hamdallaye ACI 2000 area of Bamako, Mali.
The official directions identify the building as being opposite the Save the Children office.
Planning your visit
Use the complete visiting address when arranging transport. Allow sufficient time for local traffic and security procedures.
For a new consular application, you must have a confirmed appointment before arriving.
Choosing the correct location
The embassy handles Dutch passport and identity card applications, selected nationality procedures, consular certificates and certain legalisations.
Regular short-stay Schengen visa applications are submitted at VFS Global in Bamako, a separate application centre.
Before travelling: check the current embassy closure dates and any applicable travel advice. Consular appointments and document collection take place during different hours.
Diplomatic representation
About the Dutch Embassy in Bamako
The Dutch Embassy in Bamako represents the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Mali.
It maintains diplomatic relations with the Malian authorities and serves as an official point of contact for bilateral and international matters.
Its diplomatic work includes representing Dutch interests, maintaining government contacts and supporting cooperation between institutions and organisations.
Consular services for Dutch nationals
The embassy provides several consular services to Dutch citizens living in Mali or visiting the country.
Services include passport and identity card applications, emergency travel documents, selected nationality procedures, consular certificates and legalisation of signatures or identity document copies.
Consular services within West Africa
The availability of Dutch consular services varies between countries in West Africa.
Some neighbouring countries do not have a Dutch embassy with a regular consular counter. Applicants should use the country-specific instructions published by NetherlandsWorldwide before selecting a location.
Consular services
Consular Services at the Dutch Embassy in Bamako
Passports and ID Cards
Dutch nationals can apply for a passport or identity card by booking an online appointment.
Nationality Procedures
Naturalisation and the Dutch nationality option procedure require an appointment requested by email.
Certificates and Legalisations
Selected certificates can be requested by email, while certain legalisations require online appointments.
Emergency travel documents
If your Dutch passport or identity card has been lost or stolen and you urgently need to travel, contact the embassy about an emergency travel document.
Email bam-ca@minbuza.nl and explain your circumstances, current location, contact number and intended travel itinerary.
The embassy will assess your request and explain whether an emergency travel document may be issued.
Naturalisation
Eligible applicants seeking Dutch nationality through naturalisation from abroad can request an appointment by email.
Check the applicable legal requirements before contacting the embassy.
Option procedure
If you are eligible to obtain Dutch nationality through the option procedure, request an appointment by emailing bam-ca@minbuza.nl.
Signature legalisation
To have your signature legalised, make an online appointment with the embassy in Bamako.
Bring valid identification and the document requiring your signature.
Legalisation of a copy of an identity document
The embassy offers online appointments for legalising copies of identification documents.
Confirm that the receiving organisation accepts this form of legalisation before applying.
Certificate of marital status
You can request a certificate concerning your marital status by emailing bam-ca@minbuza.nl.
No initial personal appointment is required to submit the request.
Certificate of legal capacity to marry
If you require a certificate of legal capacity to marry, you can submit your request by email.
The embassy will explain which identity and civil-status documents are required.
Certificate of residence
A certificate confirming your place of residence can also be requested by email without an initial counter appointment.
Proof-of-life certificate
If you need a proof-of-life certificate for a pension provider or another organisation, make an online appointment at the embassy.
Certificate of Dutch nationality
Eligibility and application requirements for a certificate of Dutch nationality depend on your personal circumstances.
Check the official NetherlandsWorldwide instructions before applying.
Basic civic integration examination abroad
Residents of Mali can arrange the basic civic integration examination abroad at the Dutch Embassy in Bamako.
Request an appointment by emailing bam-ca@minbuza.nl and include your candidate number.
Complete the required registration and examination payment before requesting an appointment.
Applicants who live outside Mali are directed to the Dutch Embassy in Accra, Ghana, for this examination.
Caribbean Carpet Programme
Eligible organisations can submit a completed Caribbean Carpet Programme registration form by emailing the consular team.
Appointment methods differ: passport applications and selected legalisations use online booking. Naturalisation, option procedures, emergency documents and the civic integration examination use email appointments. Certain certificates can be requested directly by email.
Travel documents
Applying for a Dutch Passport or Identity Card in Mali
Dutch nationals residing in Mali can apply for a new passport or identity card at the Dutch Embassy in Bamako.
1. Prepare Your Checklist
Create a personal document checklist for each application and gather the required supporting evidence.
2. Book Online
Make an online appointment at the Dutch Embassy in Bamako once your application documents are complete.
3. Attend in Person
Bring your printed checklist, completed and signed application form, and original supporting documents.
Proof of legal residence in Mali
Applicants must demonstrate that they reside legally in Mali.
Depending on their circumstances, acceptable evidence may include:
- A valid visa with supporting documents.
- A valid residence permit issued by the Malian immigration authorities.
- A valid passport or identity card.
For a child’s first Dutch passport or identity card, a birth certificate may serve as evidence of legal residence.
Birth and marriage certificates
Birth and marriage certificates issued in Mali must be legalised when required for the application.
Documents issued in other countries may be subject to different legalisation requirements.
Document translations
Documents written in Dutch, English, German or French can be submitted.
Documents in another language may require translation by a sworn translator.
Applications for children
Children must attend their passport or identity card appointment in person.
Parental or guardian consent may be required for passport applications for children under 18 and identity card applications for children under 12.
If a parent or guardian cannot attend, a signed consent declaration and an identification copy may be required.
Existing passports and identity cards
Bring all Dutch and foreign passports and identity cards you possess, including expired documents.
If you still need your existing travel document while the application is being processed, ask whether you can retain it temporarily.
Collecting a new passport or ID card
Completed documents can be collected at the embassy Monday to Thursday from 2:00 to 4:30 PM without another appointment.
Receiving a new passport by DHL
The embassy also offers the option of receiving a completed Dutch passport by DHL.
The published additional shipping charge is CFA 35,000, payable when submitting your application.
If you retain your previous passport during processing, you must return it before the new passport can be dispatched.
Identity cards must be collected
A new Dutch identity card cannot be sent by DHL. It must be collected at the embassy in Bamako.
Important: passport delivery is available under the embassy’s conditions, but identity card delivery is not. If you choose DHL delivery, confirm the current costs and arrangements during your application.
Visas and residence
Applying for a Visa for the Netherlands in Mali
Visa requirements depend on your nationality, place of residence, travel documents and intended purpose of travel.
Short-stay Schengen visas
Eligible residents of Mali can apply for a short-stay Schengen visa for the Netherlands through VFS Global in Bamako.
The Netherlands‘ visa application arrangements in Mali also cover applications for Belgium, Hungary, Luxembourg, Slovakia and Switzerland under the applicable representation agreements and visa requirements.
1. Check Requirements
Confirm whether a visa is required and which Schengen country is responsible for your application.
2. Prepare Your Documents
Complete the visa application form and gather the documents relevant to your primary travel purpose.
3. Book with VFS Global
Reserve an appointment at the authorised VFS Global visa application centre in Bamako.
Applications from residents of Mali
VFS Global in Bamako accepts regular Schengen visa applications from people who reside in Mali.
If you live in another country, check whether you are eligible to apply in Mali before booking.
When to submit a Schengen visa application
You can generally apply from six months before your journey, or nine months for eligible seafarers.
Submit your application at least 15 calendar days before your intended travel date and allow additional time for appointment availability.
Diplomatic and service passport holders
Applicants holding diplomatic or service passports can use the separate online appointment procedure at the Dutch Embassy in Bamako when eligible.
Follow the official instructions for your travel document type.
MVV visa stickers
If the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) has approved your residence application, you may need an MVV visa sticker.
You can apply at the embassy in Bamako only if your IND approval letter authorises this location.
Make an online embassy appointment and follow the requirements in the approval letter.
Caribbean visas
Eligible applicants can arrange short-stay and long-stay Caribbean visa appointments through VFS Global in Mali.
Airport transit visas
If you require an airport transit visa for a connection through the Netherlands, use the applicable VFS Global procedure in Bamako.
Entry visas
If your Dutch residence permit is lost, stolen or expired while you are in Mali, you may need an entry visa to return to the Netherlands.
Eligible applicants can submit an entry visa application through VFS Global in Bamako.
Important: regular Schengen visa applications use VFS Global. Eligible MVV visa sticker applications and certain applications involving diplomatic or service passports use separate embassy appointments.
Opening hours
Consular Opening Hours of the Dutch Embassy in Bamako
NetherlandsWorldwide publishes the following opening hours for the consular counter. Visits during these periods are by appointment only.
Separate document collection hours
Completed passports, identity cards and other documents can be collected Monday to Thursday from 2:00 to 4:30 PM.
A new appointment is not required for collection.
Public holiday closures
The embassy is also closed on selected Dutch and Malian public holidays.
Check the official embassy contact page for the current closure dates before visiting.
Remember: new consular applications are arranged for morning appointments. Document collection takes place during the separate afternoon window.
Appointments
How to Make an Appointment at the Dutch Embassy in Bamako
Online Appointments
Book Dutch passports, identity cards, MVV visa stickers, signature legalisation and proof-of-life certificates online.
Email Appointments
Contact bam-ca@minbuza.nl for emergency travel documents, naturalisation, option procedures and the civic integration examination.
VFS Global Appointments
Use VFS Global for ordinary Schengen visas and other visa categories referred to the application centre.
Passport and identity card appointments
Prepare your personal document checklist before booking online.
If you need both a passport and an identity card, make separate appointments.
Nationality procedures
Naturalisation and option procedure appointments are requested through bam-ca@minbuza.nl.
Legalisation services
For legalisation of signatures or copies of identification documents, use the official online appointment system.
Certificates requested by email
Certificates of marital status, legal capacity to marry and residence can be requested directly by email.
No initial personal appointment is required to submit these requests.
Proof-of-life certificates
For a proof-of-life certificate, book an online appointment at the embassy.
Changing or cancelling an appointment
Online booking confirmations provide instructions for changing or cancelling the appointment.
For an appointment arranged by email, contact the consular team directly.
Document collection
Collecting a Dutch Passport or ID Card in Bamako
When your new Dutch passport or identity card is ready, the embassy will notify you by email.
Collection hours
Receiving your passport by DHL
For eligible applicants, the Dutch Embassy in Bamako can send a new Dutch passport by DHL.
The published additional charge is CFA 35,000, payable at the passport application appointment.
Confirm the delivery address and other shipping conditions when applying.
Returning your old passport
If you retain your current passport during processing and choose DHL delivery, you must return the old passport before the new one is dispatched.
There may therefore be a period when you do not have a passport available for travel.
Identity card collection
A new Dutch identity card cannot be delivered by DHL.
You must collect it personally from the embassy during the published collection hours.
Collection deadline
Your new passport or identity card must be collected or dispatched within three months after notification that it is ready.
Documents not collected or dispatched within that period are destroyed.
Checking your new document
Check your name, place of birth and other personal details as soon as you receive your new passport or identity card.
If you notice an error, contact bam-ca@minbuza.nl and provide the information needed to explain the correction.
Important: new passports may be sent by DHL under the applicable conditions. New identity cards must be collected personally. Both documents can be collected Monday to Thursday from 2:00 to 4:30 PM.
Before your visit
Preparing for a Visit to the Dutch Embassy in Bamako
Confirm Your Appointment
Check the service, date and time stated in your booking confirmation.
Prepare Your Documents
Bring your personal checklist, completed application forms and any required original documents, legalisations or translations.
Check Embassy Closures
Review the official holiday calendar and any applicable security or travel information before leaving.
Consular fees
Official fees apply to passports, identity cards, certificates, legalisations and certain visa-related procedures.
Check the current consular tariff and accepted payment methods before your appointment.
Passport delivery charges
If you request DHL delivery of a completed passport, the published additional charge is CFA 35,000.
Check whether the fee and delivery conditions remain applicable when making your appointment.
Urgent consular assistance
Dutch nationals requiring urgent consular assistance in Mali can contact NetherlandsWorldwide.
Emergency assistance: call +31 247 247 247, available 24 hours a day. WhatsApp support is available at +31 857 737 400. Do not send sensitive personal documents through WhatsApp. In immediate danger, contact local emergency services first.
Frequently asked questions
Dutch Embassy in Bamako: FAQ
Where is the Dutch Embassy in Bamako?
The embassy is at Rue 250, Porte 31, opposite the Save the Children building, in Hamdallaye ACI 2000, Bamako, Mali.
What is the embassy’s telephone number?
You can call +223 44 97 82 00. NetherlandsWorldwide is also available at +31 247 247 247.
What are the consular opening hours?
Consular appointments take place Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 11:45 AM. The counter is closed on Friday and weekends.
Can I apply for a Dutch passport or identity card in Bamako?
Yes. Prepare your personal document checklist and book an online appointment at the Dutch Embassy in Bamako.
When can I collect my new passport or identity card?
Completed documents can be collected Monday to Thursday from 2:00 to 4:30 PM without another appointment.
Can the embassy send my new Dutch passport?
Yes. DHL delivery is available under the embassy’s conditions. The published additional charge is CFA 35,000, payable when submitting your application.
Can my new Dutch identity card be delivered?
No. New Dutch identity cards cannot be sent by DHL. They must be collected at the embassy in Bamako.
Where can I apply for a Schengen visa in Mali?
Eligible residents of Mali can apply through VFS Global in Bamako. Separate arrangements apply to certain diplomatic and service passport holders.
Can I take the basic civic integration examination in Bamako?
Yes, if you live in Mali. Email bam-ca@minbuza.nl with your candidate number to request an appointment after completing the required registration.
How can Dutch nationals obtain urgent consular assistance in Mali?
Call NetherlandsWorldwide on +31 247 247 247, available 24 hours a day. In immediate danger, contact local emergency services first.
Official information