How long does a security screening (VGB) take for Schiphol? Timeline & Tips

17 mei 2025

If you're about to start working at a secure location such as Schiphol Airport, you’ll need a VGB (Verklaring van Geen Bezwaar) — a Certificate of No Objection. But what exactly happens after you receive a job offer? What does the timeline look like? And how long does the security screening process really take?

This overview walks you through the process step-by-step, based on a real-life example. That way, you’ll know what to expect — and where you can influence the timeline yourself.

🗓 Timeline Example – Applying for a Foreign Police Certificate proactively (Schiphol job)

Date	Step
25 Feb	Official job offer received (via email).
27 Feb	Request to submit the VGB application form as soon as possible.
1 Mar	Fingerprints taken at Fingerprints & Screening.
3 Mar	Fingerprints sent to the U.S. for the foreign NCR (Non-Criminal Record).
5 Mar	Fingerprints delivered to the FBI.
15 Mar	NCR (Non-Criminal Record) completed.
16 Mar	Called AIVD: application had not yet been submitted by employer.
18 Mar	Employer sends VGB application to the AIVD by post.
25 Mar	Confirmation of receipt: VGB officially under review.
8 Apr	Proactively emailed NCR to AIVD.
6 May	Called AIVD for a status update (nearly 7 weeks into the process).
13 May	VGB granted, retroactively effective from 9 May.

🗓 Timeline Example – Only requesting foreign certificate after AIVD notification (Schiphol Job)

Date	Step
25 Feb	Official job offer received.
27 Feb	Request to submit the VGB application form as soon as possible.
12 Mar	Confirmation of receipt: VGB officially under review.
25 Apr	Request from AIVD to submit a foreign certificate.
28 Apr	Fingerprints taken at Fingerprints & Screening.
28 Apr	Fingerprints sent to the U.S. for the NCR.
30 Apr	Fingerprints delivered to the FBI.
2 May	Extension requested for VGB due to waiting for the NCR.
15 May	NCR completed and emailed to AIVD.
6 Jun	VGB granted.

🕒 Total processing time if you proactively apply for the foreign certificate: 7 weeks and 1 day
(→ faster than the official maximum of 8 weeks)

🕒 Total processing time if you wait for the AIVD letter before starting the foreign certificate process: over 11 weeks
(This includes time needed to request an extension while waiting for the certificate.)

Why acting early saves time

By requesting your foreign police certificate at the start of your VGB application, you can avoid delays and skip the extension request process. In total, this can save you up to 4 weeks in processing time.

What are the steps in the security screening process?

1. Offer & Application

You receive a job offer for a position that requires a VGB.
You complete the VGB application form (in some cases still on paper).
The employer sends the application to the AIVD or Royal Netherlands Marechaussee.

2. Foreign document preparation

If you have lived abroad, a foreign certificate may be required (e.g., a Non-Criminal Record).
You can often request this document proactively once you know a VGB is needed.

3. Review by AIVD / Royal Marechaussee

You’ll receive confirmation that the application is being reviewed.
AIVD may request additional information, such as your foreign certificate, if it was not included.

4. Decision

Once approved, your VGB will be sent by post.
The certificate is valid for a specific period, depending on the role.

How long does a VGB screening take?

The official processing time is up to 8 weeks.
In practice, you often see:
- 6–8 weeks if all documents are complete and you're not waiting on foreign paperwork.
- Delays if the application is incomplete or if foreign documents arrive late.

💡 Tip: Have you lived abroad? Don’t wait — request your certificate right away. It can save you valuable time.

Important tips

Follow up with your employer to ensure the application was submitted. In one case, the VGB application was sent out several days late.
Be proactive in requesting your foreign documents (NCR / police clearance).
Email your foreign certificate (with your case number)

In summary

Security screenings require patience, but there's a lot you can do to avoid unnecessary delays. Request your documents on time, stay in contact with your employer, and don’t hesitate to call the AIVD if you're unsure whether something was received. This way, your start date at Schiphol (or any other sensitive location) stays on track.