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Schengen or tourist visa for the Netherlands? A guide on everything you need to know

Getting a Schengen or tourist visa for the Netherlands can be easy or difficult, depending on where you come from.

There’s a lot of information available online so here’s an easy-to-read one-stop guide for all the visa options available if you want to visit the Netherlands.

Maybe you live in the Netherlands and have family or friends visiting, or perhaps you’re embarking on a Dutch adventure yourself. Either way, we have all the information you’ll need to get that visa sorted.

Start planning now so that once it’s safe to travel again, you won’t have to scramble with logistics — you’ll be cruising around the canals and tulip gardens before you know it!

Be sure to check the Dutch government’s website for current coronavirus travel recommendations and effects on visa applications .

First things first: which passport do you have?

The type of visa you’ll need not only depends on what you are going to do in the Netherlands but which passport you hold. If you have a passport from any of the countries within the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you will not need any visa to travel to the Netherlands.

However, if you don’t have a passport from these countries (barring a few exceptions), then you will need a visa to travel to the Netherlands.

The Immigration and Naturalisation Services of the Netherlands has a list of countries that come under this rule. Check it before you make your travel plans because for some countries like Australia, Canada, the USA, etc. a visa is not required.

Remember that if you’re exempt from a visa requirement, you can stay in the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days, spread over a 180 day period.

This rule is different if you have a passport from Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Mauritius, Saint Kitts & Nevis, and Seychelles, according to the IND website. You can stay for three months within a six month period.

Be sure to check the list to see the requirements for your specific country if you plan to visit the Netherlands. You can use the short-stay calculator  to figure out how many days you can stay depending on your nationality.

Types of visas: why are you visiting the Netherlands?

If you’re making travel plans, or if you’re just passing through the airport to get to your next destination, there are different visas that would apply to you.

These visas are for short-term stays, and should not be used in the same capacity as a residence permit. You can stay and travel through the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days, or just transit through the country.

There are four types of visas:

• Schengen visa or tourist visa,
• transit visa,
• return visa, and
• MVV authorisation for a temporary stay.

The Schengen visa is the only one which is purely for tourist purposes.

As of late 2022, nationalities including Brits, Americans, Australians, Japanese and Mexicans will require an ETIAS visa waiver to visit the Netherlands or any other EU member state.

This travel document will be valid for 3 years from the date of issue, allow you to visit for up to 90 days in a 6-month period, and will cost €7. You can find out more on a travel visa service like Byevisa .

Schengen or tourist visa for the Netherlands

Do you need a Schengen or tourist visa for the Netherlands?

The Schengen visa is the visa you need to apply for if you have a passport from one of the listed countries, and if you’re coming for tourist purposes, visiting family, or a business trip.

This visa will allow you to stay in the Schengen zone (including the Netherlands) for up to 90 days. These 90 days can be spread over a period of 180 days and allows you to travel through all the Schengen countries .

This is not to be confused with a residence permit and does not allow you to work in the country or any other Schengen country.

It’s always handy to know the local language before you go to a foreign land. Learn a few Dutch words before you come here, and blend in with the locals!

Single or multiple entry: What does your itinerary look like?

If you choose to only travel through the Schengen zone, you can apply for a single entry visa .

This means that once you depart from any of the countries, you will not be allowed to re-enter. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you choose this option, you have to leave the Netherlands and the Schengen zone and will be able to apply for a visa only after 90 days.

If you choose to apply for a multiple entry visa, you will be able to leave the Schengen zone and re-enter without having to apply for another visa.

Remember, the Schengen zone is different from the European Union, so if you’re planning to travel to Bulgaria or the UK, you will need to apply for this type of visa. Did you know that we now have a train that goes from Amsterdam or Rotterdam, all the way to London?

Once you have a tentative plan in place, it’s time to get your documents together and start preparing for your visa application appointment.

What documents do you need for a Schengen visa?

Get your checklist writing shoes on — this is going to be a long one!

• A valid travel document like a passport which is valid for six months from the date you enter the Netherlands.
• Two passport photos which meet the Dutch passport photo requirements .
• Show your travel purpose . You can do this with your hotel reservations or an invitation from a company in the Netherlands. If you’re staying with a friend or family, you will have to submit a form to show proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation .
• Proof that you can support yourself or anybody else accompanying you for the trip. You can do this submitting bank statements, traveller’s cheques or cash. You need to show you have enough for at least 34 euros a day.
• Medical insurance that is valid during your trip. It’s also worth considering taking on Schengen travel insurance , but this is not compulsory.
• Proof of return to your country of origin . You can do this by showing an employer’s declaration, proof of enrolment at a school, that you own your own house, or a return ticket.

How and when do you apply?

After you have all of these documents together, get an appointment at the Dutch embassy where you’re residing (this can be your country of origin or a country where you have a valid residence permit), and pay the visa application fee .

It is recommended that you apply for the visa at least three months before your travel date, and you only reserve (and not finalise your booking) until you have heard back about the decision. The assessment can take anywhere between 15-30 days before you hear back. You can contact your Dutch embassy for an update about your application.

Where do you go to get your visa?

As soon as your visa application has been approved, you have to get another appointment at the Dutch embassy or consulate where you applied and drop off your passport to have the visa sticker stamped. This sticker will tell you the validity of your visa, and an indication of whether it is a multiple or single entry visa.

Once you have this sticker, you’re good to start preparing for your trip!

Have you done everything right and set those travel dates in stone? Find out everything you need to know before you come to the Netherlands for the first time .

Do you have a disability ? Check out the Dutch laws, public transport, and which attractions are accessible (in Amsterdam).

If you’re looking for somewhere tourists don’t frequently go, why not try one of the many national parks  for a hike under the sun?

The Netherlands is a small country, and it is easy to go on  day trips to many places while setting up base in one of the central cities. The country is relatively safe  to visit, and super easy to get around (check our guide for public transport ).

Have you applied for a tourist or Schengen visa? Do you plan to? Tell us in the comments below!

Feature Image: Dariusz Sankowski /Unsplash Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in February 2019 and was fully updated in May 2021 for your reading pleasure.

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You want to come to the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days. 

Update April 12, 2024

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Netherlands

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Netherlands - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the Netherlands due to  terrorism.

Country Summary : Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in the Netherlands. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Netherlands.  

If you decide to travel to the Netherlands:   

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by large crowds or foreign nationals.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Netherlands.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

A passport must be valid for at least three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area . The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not accepted by Dutch authorities for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.

Two pages required for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy the hague.

John Adams Park 1 2244 BZ Wassenaar Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 (0) 70 310 2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 70 310 2207

U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam Museumplein 19 1071 DJ Amsterdam Telephone: +(31) (0) 20 575-5309 (Emergencies involving U.S. citizens only ) Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 (All other calls) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330 Email:   [email protected]  

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on the Netherlands for information on U.S.-Netherlands relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. 

Visit the  Embassy of the Netherlands  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Dutch immigration authorities do not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.  If traveling on this emergency passport, please be aware that you will be refused entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the United States is available.  We strongly urge U.S. citizens in possession of the 12-page U.S. emergency passport to replace it with a full-validity passport before traveling to the Netherlands by air. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the Netherlands.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Crime: While the rate of violent crime in the Netherlands is low, tourists are often targeted by pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves and are active in and around train, tram, and metro stations in city centers; and aboard public transportation, especially to and from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Thieves often work in pairs: one distracts you, often by asking for directions, while the other moves in on your unguarded property. Use your hotel safe, and keep baggage locked or secured when you are away. Avoid leaving valuables in automobiles, especially electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, GPS devices, and mobile telephones. Never leave your personal items or baggage unattended.

Most retailers in the Netherlands only accept a “chip and pin” card and will not accept a standard U.S. credit card containing only a magnetic strip. ATM and credit card users are advised to keep an eye on their cards at all times. If you feel uncomfortable using your card for any reason, use cash. Contact your credit card provider for further guidance.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 112 or 0900-8844 for non-emergency cases.  See above for contact information for the U.S. Embassy The Hague and U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes in the Netherlands.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

The organization Slachtofferhulp Nederland (Victim Support Netherlands) provides a range of services for victims of crime, traffic accidents or disasters within the Netherlands. For more information, visit their webpage .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is well-regulated and rules in regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide lifesaving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Despite common misperceptions, marijuana and hashish are controlled substances in the Netherlands, and although not enforced in defined tourist areas, possession is a crime that can result in a fine. “Coffee shops” are havens for petty criminals who prey on tourists and other individuals under the influence of drugs. Persons who visit “coffee shops” have become victims of pickpocketing, identity theft, sexual assault, and other crimes. Visitors are cautioned against using such substances, as they are often counterfeit and can cause illness or death. It is illegal to take any controlled substance, such as marijuana, into or out of the Netherlands.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers  
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in the Netherlands. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : Dutch law guarantees equality and the right to access for people with disabilities. Information about accessibility in the Netherlands for travelers with disabilities is available on the Netherlands main online portal for visitors.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:  For information about COVID-19 testing in the Netherlands, visit the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport webpage .

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in the Netherlands if they are residents.  Visit the Dutch government’s COVID-19 page for more information about obtaining the COVID-19 vaccine in the Netherlands. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Good medical facilities are widely available in the Netherlands. Pharmacies (“Apotheek”) are widely available and can assist with emergency prescription needs. Some common medications are not available in the Netherlands without a prescription, and some prescription drugs cannot be imported into the country.

For emergency services in the Netherlands, dial 112.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas coverage.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Carry an adequate supply of prescription drugs in their original container in your carry-on luggage. Carry a letter from your pharmacist or medical doctor with you, as some drugs are subject to confiscation by local customs agents.  Check with the government of the Netherlands to ensure the medication is legal in the Netherlands. If you are traveling with any pre-existing medical conditions, bring a letter from your physician that describes your medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic name of any prescribed drugs.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Lanes in the center of many urban two-way streets are reserved for buses, trams, and taxis.
• In cities, pedestrians should be mindful of trams and buses, which often cross or share bicycle and pedestrian paths. Serious and sometimes fatal accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists colliding with trams and buses occur each year.
• Motorists should be especially mindful of the fact that bicyclists have the right-of-way; motorists must yield to bicyclists.
• Pedestrians should not walk along bicycle paths, which are often next to the sidewalk and usually designated by red pavement.

Traffic Laws:  

• A valid driver’s license issued by a Department of Motor Vehicles in the United States is valid for use in the Netherlands while in tourist or visitor status. Please check here (Dutch only) for more information.
• You must use seat belts and child seats.
• Driving is on the right side of the road, as in the United States.
• Speed limits are strictly enforced by radar. Traffic cameras are common throughout the Netherlands, and it is possible to receive a ticket for traveling even 2-5 km/h over the limit. Different limits may apply to certain hours of the day, as posted.
• Drivers must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and bicyclists coming from the right at intersections or traffic circles unless otherwise posted.
• The maximum allowable blood-alcohol content in the Netherlands is 0.05 percent.
• The maximum allowable blood-alcohol limit for those who have had a driver’s license for less than five years is 0.02 percent.
• Use of cellular telephones for talking or texting while driving without the use of a hands-free device is prohibited and is punishable by significant fines.
• Bicyclists and pedestrians should be particularly cautious during the winter months, when paths, roads, and especially bridges can become icy and extremely slippery.

Public Transportation: 

Rail is often a convenient alternative to driving, particularly in the areas around Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, where road congestion is frequent. Rail network information is available at http://www.ns.nl/en . It is relatively safe to travel by rail from city to city, compared to some other European countries but be aware of pickpockets. Taxi service in the Netherlands is safe but expensive. Trams and buses are both convenient and economical but are often frequented by pickpockets.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions .

Aviation Safety Oversight: 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the Netherlands’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Netherland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:

Mariners planning travel to the Netherlands should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Netherlands . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Schengenvisa.info

30 August 2022 by Editorial office

Do I need a visa for the Netherlands?

Some nationalities (holders of a passport of a specific country) are visa required for the Netherlands and the Schengen area . These nationalities must first apply for and be granted a visa in order to visit the Netherlands.

Whether you need a visa for the Netherlands depends on your nationality and the length of your stay in the Netherlands. In general, citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland do not need a visa to travel to the Netherlands and stay there for up to 90 days.

For persons coming from countries outside the EEA and Switzerland, it may be necessary to obtain a to apply for a visa to travel to the Netherlands. This applies in particular to people who want to travel to the Netherlands for a stay of more than 90 days.

To determine whether you need a visa for the Netherlands, you can visit the website of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). On this website you can also find information about how to apply for a visa and what the requirements are. It is advisable to apply for your visa well in advance, as the visa process can sometimes take some time.

Do you need a Schengen visa?

If you want to stay in the Netherlands for less than 90 days, you will need a Schengen visa, depending on your nationality. With a Schengen visa you can stay in the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days (within a period of 180 days). Schengen area stay. The Netherlands is part of the Schengen area.

Do you have more than 1 nationality? Then the passport you are traveling with determines whether a Schengen visa is required.

Next to an visa requirement for certain nationalities , there are also a number of conditions that apply to every foreign guest.

What is a Visa?

A visa is an official permission to enter and stay in a country. A visa is usually issued by the embassy or consulate of the country the traveler is going to. The issuance of a visa is subject to rules. A visa for the Netherlands is also valid for all 27 countries that are part of the Schengen area. You can therefore also visit other countries with a Schengen visa.

What does a visa requirement mean for the Netherlands?

Your nationality determines whether you need to apply for a visa for the Netherlands. We call such a visa a short-stay Schengen visa. This can be issued for a stay of up to 90 days. A visa for the Netherlands is a kind of sticker that is stuck in the travel document (passport). A Schengen visa indicates that at the time of issue there is no objection to the entry of the foreign national. The Dutch government always first checks whether you are eligible for a visa.

Conditions for visiting the Netherlands

Whether you are or are not required to have a visa, a number of basic conditions apply to be able to visit the Netherlands as a foreign guest. These conditions are:

• You have a valid passport or other travel document that is not older than 10 years.
• Your passport or travel document is valid for 3 months after departure.
• You can prove that you can pay for the entire stay in the Netherlands (this is € 55 per day). If this does not work, someone must act as guarantor for you.
• You can demonstrate the purpose of your stay at the border control.
• You have a ticket for the return journey or onward journey.
• You are not a threat to public order, national security or international relations.
• You have a medical travel insurance for emergency medical assistance and repatriation (visa required).

Visa-required nationalities for the Netherlands

Passport holders of the countries listed below are required to have a visa for the Netherlands and must apply for a Schengen visa before they can travel to the Netherlands:

Apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands

A visa application for the Netherlands can be submitted at the earliest 6 months and no later than 15 calendar days before the intended travel date.

Related posts:

• Schengen visa for the Netherlands
• List of visa-requiring countries
• List of nationalities requiring a visa
• Schengen countries

• News & Articles
• Privacy Policy

The sole purpose of this website is to provide practical information about a Schengen visa. We are not affiliated with the EU, the Dutch government or the IND. No rights can be derived from the texts on this website. Always check with the official authorities for the most recent information and regulations.

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What do I need to travel to the Netherlands?

Answer a maximum of 7 questions to find out which documents you need if you are travelling to the Netherlands, or back to the Netherlands.

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What you need to know when you travel to the Netherlands

News item | 20-08-2021 | 10:28

There are certain things you need to know if you’re planning to travel to the Netherlands during the current pandemic. In this article Conrad van Tiggelen, director of strategy and branding at the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions , helps fill you in so you can properly prepare for your trip.

What is the current situation in the Netherlands?

‘The Netherlands has re-opened for the most part. Some basic rules still apply, however: avoid busy places, stay 1.5 metres away from other people, wash your hands often and – if you have symptoms – stay at home and get tested. Face masks are no longer required in most public spaces. Public transport is the only exception: everyone aged 13 or older must still wear a face mask at stations and airports, on trains, buses and ferries, and in taxis.’

Is the Netherlands ready to welcome foreign tourists again?

‘Absolutely. The Netherlands is a welcoming country and is looking forward to receiving tourists in a safe, responsible way. We’ve missed having visitors from abroad and are excited for their return. The Dutch are always happy to put their knowledge of other languages to use to help foreign visitors.’

What do tourists need to bear in mind when travelling to the Netherlands?

‘Exactly what you need to bear in mind when travelling to the Netherlands depends on where you’re travelling from, how you are travelling and whether the country you’re travelling from is on the list of safe countries and regions.’

See the information below and this checklist  for more about travelling to the Netherlands from abroad.

Find out whether you are required to self-quarantine and what documents you need when you travel via the check on reizentijdenscorona.rijksoverheid.nl . It will give you a personal travel overview, based on your travel details.

Travelling from within the EU/Schengen area

See the list of safe countries and regions in the EU/Schengen area .

• You are travelling from a place that is on the list of safe countries/regions: you may travel to the Netherlands. You do not need proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative COVID-19 test result. You do not need to self-quarantine. You are, however, advised to get tested or take a self-test after you arrive.
• You are travelling from a high-risk area: you may travel to the Netherlands. If you are 12 or older you must have a Digital COVID Certificate (proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or negative COVID-19 test result) . You do not need to self-quarantine. You are advised to get tested or take a self-test after you arrive.

Travelling by air

If you are 13 or older and are travelling to the Netherlands by air, you are required to complete a health declaration form.  Download the health declaration form here .

Travelling from outside the EU/Schengen area

See the list of safe countries and regions outside the EU/Schengen area .

• You are travelling from a place that is on the list of safe countries/regions: you may travel to the Netherlands. You must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result. You do not need to self-quarantine. You are, however, advised to get tested or take a self-test after you arrive.
• You are travelling from a high-risk area:  an EU entry ban is in place for people travelling to the EU/Schengen area from places not on the list of safe countries and regions. Generally speaking you may not, therefore, travel to the Netherlands – although certain exceptions do apply. Find out who is exempt from the EU entry ban and may travel to the Netherlands. You must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result. You do not need to self-quarantine. You are advised to get tested or take a self-test after you arrive.
• You are travelling from a very high-risk area: you are required to show a negative test result and to self-quarantine. When arriving in the Netherlands after a stay in a very high-risk area, you must self-quarantine for 10 days – this applies whether or not there is a virus variant of concern in that area. And it applies even if you have proof of vaccination or proof of recovery. If you get tested on day 5 you can shorten your quarantine period.

If you are 13 or older and are travelling to the Netherlands by air, you are required to complete a health declaration form. Download the health declaration form here.

Type of negative COVID-19 test result required when travelling to the Netherlands

If you need a negative COVID-19 test result to travel to the Netherlands, it must be from either a NAAT (PCR) test conducted no more than 48 hours before your departure or an antigen test conducted no more than 24 hours before your departure. There are additional measures if you are travelling from a high risk area.  Find out more about test result requirements here.

Changing planes in the Netherlands

If you change planes in the Netherlands and you board your connecting flight within 24 hours without leaving the airport in the meantime, you do not need to show a negative COVID-19 test result. If, however, you are travelling from a very high-risk area you must have a completed and signed quarantine declaration form with you, even if you have been vaccinated.   Download the quarantine declaration form here.

If you are 13 or older and travelling to the Netherlands by air you are also required to complete a health declaration form, even if you are only changing planes. Download the health declaration form here .

Please note that in some cases you may require an airport transit visa .

You are travelling through the Netherlands by car/motorcycle and will be in the country for less than 12 hours

If you will be in the Netherlands for less than 12 hours you do not need to show a negative COVID-19 test result. If, however, you are travelling from a high-risk area you must have a completed and signed quarantine declaration form with you.  Download the quarantine declaration form here.

What should tourists bear in mind while they are visiting the Netherlands?

‘You can have a great holiday in the Netherlands. Hotels, camp sites and holiday parks are all open. There may, however, be additional rules in place. Shops, museums, amusement parks and other sights and attractions are also open, but you may need to book tickets in advance. Make sure you find out ahead of time what rules apply at your accommodation and any locations you want to visit.

Restaurants, cafés and bars are open, although guests must be assigned a seat and everyone must keep 1.5 metres apart. Establishments serving food and drink may not stay open past midnight or open before 06.00 in the morning. Nightclubs and similar venues are currently closed.

Multi-day events with overnight stays are not permitted before 20 September. One-day events are permitted subject to certain conditions. Event organisers may request that you show a COVID certificate to enter – for this the Dutch CoronaCheck app is required.’

What should tourists do if they become ill while in the Netherlands?

‘Stay in your accommodation and do not leave except to get tested. You can make an appointment to get tested by calling 0800 1202 (or +31 850 659 063 if you’re calling from a foreign phone) between 08.00 and 20.00. COVID-19 tests are free of charge in the Netherlands at all test locations run by the municipal health services (GGD). If you test positive for COVID-19, follow the instructions given to you by the healthcare professionals. If your symptoms are life-threatening, call the Dutch emergency number 112.’

What should foreign visitors bear in mind before leaving the Netherlands to return home?

‘Many countries consider the Netherlands to be a high-risk area. Your home country may therefore require you to show a negative test result when you return. Before leaving the Netherlands, always check the latest rules for entering your home country.’

Do you have any additional tips for holidaymakers travelling to the Netherlands?

‘There is a lot to explore in the Netherlands within a relatively short distance. Avoid busy places and seek out different adventures. Stray from the beaten path and discover some of our country’s lesser-known spots. Do as the locals do and explore by bike, for example. There are many places in the Netherlands where you can rent bikes (including e-bikes). Visit Holland.com for inspiration.

Another option is to take in Dutch culture in our museums, many of which now offer reduced admission. If you are planning to visit several museums, the Netherlands Museum Pass could be a good option for you – it offers unlimited access to more than 400 museums across the country. Due to the restrictions in place, museums may require you to book tickets. You should therefore plan your visit in good time to be sure you can get in during your stay in the Netherlands.’

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