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COVID desk: Information for visitors to The Netherlands

The Netherlands is open and welcomes you! All Covid-19 related measures have been abolished.

All travelers to the Netherlands will no longer require a test, proof of recovery or proof of vaccination.

• You can find up to date information and travel advice at Government.nl .
• Find the answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19 at the bottom of this page.

Handy links to the official travel advice

If you are travelling to the Netherlands from Belgium , Germany , France , the United Kingdom , the United States or China , please check these respective links to the official travel advice issued by your national foreign office.

FAQ - Current COVID-19 situation in the Netherlands

The current status of COVID infections, vaccinations and hospital admissions in the Netherlands at a glance.

The travel rules and COVID measures apply to all persons aged 13 and over.

Please follow the link and enter your country in the search box to retrieve the contact details.

The rules for entering the Netherlands depend on whether you are travelling from inside or outside the European Union (EU). Please read the handy travel checklist to see which rules apply to you.

You can use the (European) Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) to enter the Netherlands. You need a QR-code to proof that you have been vaccinated against COVID-19, have tested negative or have already been infected and are therefore protected. For more information about the DCC please visit this website.

If you are travelling to the Netherlands from another EU country you will no longer need to show proof of vaccination, a Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) based on proof of recovery or a negative test result. If you are travelling by air, complete a health declaration form. Do a self-test after arriving in The Netherlands and on day 5 of your stay. Use the travel advice tool on Reizentijdenscorona.nl to get specific advice for your trip. This tool also works if you are travelling through several countries.

An EU entry ban is in effect for people from countries outside the European Union/Schengen area. This includes the United Kingdom. There are exemptions to the entry ban, for example for some countries that are considered safe. Countries from outside the EU/Schengen are classified into two categories: 1. Safe countries and 2. Countries that are not on the ‘safe country list’. Please always check which category your country belongs to. Travellers from outside the EU/Schengen area do no longer have to carry a negative test result, if one of the following applies: Their country of origin is on the EU’s list of safe countries, they hold a valid vaccination certificate or recovery certificate.

If you are fully vaccinated, you can travel to the Netherlands. You will have to show the following documents to the Dutch border authorities: 1. a completed 'Vaccine Declaration COVID-19' form*; 2. proof of vaccination accepted by the Netherlands; 3. a negative Covid-19 test result; 4. proof of your return journey (return ticket issued by airline, bus company or railway company); 5. a visa (if you require a visa). *This declaration must be completed by all travellers aged 12 and over from outside the Schengen area. Children under the age of 18 travelling with their vaccinated parent(s) or legal guardian(s) are exempt from this requirement, but they must show a negative COVID-19 test result. There are some exemptions for the test result requirement.

If you develop coronavirus symptoms, you are advised to stay in your accommodation, avoid contact with others and get tested by the municipal health service (GGD) or do a self-test. If the result of your self-test is positive, you must isolate. Get tested by the GGD to confirm the result. Do not travel if you have symptoms (except to a test centre).

If you are visiting The Netherlands and you test positive for coronavirus, you must isolate: • If you booked your trip through a tour operator, contact them if you need to isolate due to a positive test. • If you are travelling independently, you must arrange a place to isolate yourself. If you continue to test positive, contact the country you are travelling to after your stay in the Netherlands to find out about the entry rules for that country.

Self-quarantine means that you stay at home and do not receive visitors. You should do this if there is a risk that you may have been infected by COVID. By staying at your holiday accommodation you prevent the virus from spreading further.

No, you can go to a PCR or rapid antigen test provider of your own choice for appointments. You must pay for these tests.

You can go to a PCR or rapid antigen test provider of your own choice for appointments. You must pay for these tests.

To contact the 24/7 BZ Contact Centre directly, dial +31 247 247 247.

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.

Travelling to the Netherlands

If you are a visitor, get the information you need to smoothly navigate the process and procedures to enter the Netherlands.

Passport control

Are you travelling from a non- Schengen  country to the Netherlands? You will need to present your identification document at border control, such as your passport or national ID card.

• have your identification document ready – take it out of a holder or wallet if you use one
• remove your face covering or sunglasses if you are wearing them
• pass through passport control together if you are in a family

If you are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

You can use the  EU, EEA & CH  channel to have your passport or ID card checked - this is typically quicker than other channels.

If you are from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

Your passport (and visa if you have one) will be checked at border control. You will usually be asked why you are coming to the Netherlands.

You may need to:

• show a return or onward ticket
• show you have enough money for your stay.

Self-service passport control

eGates use facial recognition technology to check your identity against your passport photo. You can use eGates if you are 14 or older and have an e-passport from an eligible country. For more information, see  Self-service passport control .

Travelling with a passport or ID card

To enter the Netherlands, you must possess a valid travel document. This can be an ID card (for travel within Europe) or a passport. Depending on your nationality, you might also need a visa. Are you a national from a country outside the  EU, EEA  or Switzerland? Then you must have a passport or travel document issued within the last 10 years. Your travel document should also be valid for a minimum of 3 months after leaving the Schengen area. Any children travelling with you must have their own valid travel document.

Travelling with children

If you are travelling with a child under 18, you must be able to show that the child's parent(s) have granted permission for you to do so. Check with your country of departure's local authorities for the rules regarding leaving the country with a minor. This will help avoid delays and the risk of missing your flight.

Emergency passport

Are you abroad and has your Dutch passport or ID card been lost or stolen? Overseas, you can apply for an emergency passport at a  Dutch embassy or consulate . You will receive a Dutch laissez-passer if an emergency passport cannot be issued in time. Do you not hold Dutch nationality? Then contact the embassy of your own country.

The need for a visa mainly depends on your nationality, destination, and length of stay. Even if you do not require a visa, there are rules for travelling to the Netherlands without a visa. For more information, see  Visa .

DutchNews.nl - DutchNews.nl brings daily news from The Netherlands in English

What you need to know before you travel between the netherlands and the uk.

The discovery of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 has prompted governments to tighten up their travel restrictions, including the Netherlands and the UK.

In August the coronavirus rules were relaxed to allow more travel between the two countries. However, strict rules on testing and quarantining are still in force on both sides of the border and there are heavy penalties for breaking them.

Many DutchNews.nl readers have been in touch to say they found the rules confusing and contradictory. We’ve done our best here to sum up the key points and answer your questions and will try to keep you updated on any changes.

For full details of the two countries’ rules check the relevant web pages for the Dutch government and the British government .

Travelling to the UK

Use the Dutch government’s interactive guide here .

Can I travel to the UK from the Netherlands?

The UK has scrapped its traffic light system in favour of a single ‘red list’ of the highest risk countries. The Netherlands is not on it, so travel is still permitted. However, from December 7 you will need to take a pre-travel test no more than 48 hours before you leave.

Travellers vaccinated in the EU no longer need to go into quarantine. However, from November 30 everyone arriving in the UK must take a PCR test within two days of arrival and self-isolate until they know the result. If you are staying for less than two days you still need to order a PCR test.

Children under 18 can follow the rules for fully vaccinated travellers, even if they have not been vaccinated. Children under 5 do not have to take PCR or antigen tests.

Children under 11 travelling to Scotland do not need to take a PCR test on day 2.

What documents do I need to travel?

A passenger locator form , which includes your proof of vaccination and a booking code for the PCR test that you booked before travelling. You can take the test either at home or in a clinic.

You can complete the passenger locator form online in the 48 hours before travelling. You will get a QR code that you can either print off or store on your phone.

What tests do I need to take?

From Tuesday, December 7, all visitors to the UK aged 12 and over must take a PCR or antigen test no more than 48 hours before travelling, even if they have been vaccinated. Dutch pre-travel tests are no longer free: an antigen test will cost about €40, a PCR test €80.

Is my vaccine passport accepted in the UK?

The EU Covid Certificate is recognised by health authorities in all UK nations. Digital or paper versions are acceptable. You must have had all your vaccinations at least 14 days before travelling.

Do I have to quarantine in the UK?

If you have proof that you’ve been fully vaccinated, you do not have to quarantine. You will still need to book and take a PCR test on day 2 . If you don’t have proof of vaccination, you will need to quarantine for 10 days after you arrive. Children under 18 are not required to quarantine.

If you’ve only had one vaccine in the Netherlands because you tested positive for coronavirus in the last six months, you do not count as fully vaccinated under UK rules. A government spokesman told DutchNews: ‘The UK does not recognise natural immunity for international travel at this time.’

The quarantine supervision team will call you on the number you give on the passenger locator form and may visit you to check you are quarantining. The maximum fine for breaking quarantine is £10,000.

Do I have to test after I arrive?

Even if you’re vaccinated, you’ll need to take a PCR test on day 2 and send it away for results. You need to book this test before you leave and state the booking reference on your passenger locator form.

If you haven’t been vaccinated you’ll need to book and take tests on day 2 and 8 – even if you’re leaving before day 8. There’s an optional ‘test to release’ which will allow you to end your quarantine after five days if it’s negative, but you’ll still need to take the day 8 test.

The UK government’s website has a list of approved test providers for travel to England. Also check independent rating sites such as Covid Testing Network .

If you’re travelling to Wales you must book an NHS test through the CTM booking portal . Travellers to Scotland can use the booking portal or the list of approved test providers in England .

Travelling to the Netherlands

Can I travel to the Netherlands from the UK?

The UK is currently classed as very high-risk, but people who are fully vaccinated are exempt from the ban on travelling to the EU.

There are also exemptions from the ban for people in long-term relationships, essential workers, people travelling for pressing family reasons, and students, researchers or skilled migrants on short visits. You will need documentation to prove this.

If you have had two vaccines, or one vaccine dose and a recent infection, or one dose of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine, you will be allowed to enter the Netherlands as long as you had your second vaccine at least 14 days before travelling. For those who had the Janssen vaccine the waiting period is 28 days.

What documents do I need?

If you are fully vaccinated and travelling by plane you will have to fill in a Health Declaration Form stating you do not have Covid-19 symptoms before you leave.

Non-residents and anyone who is not fully vaccinated will need to complete a quarantine declaration , even if you are exempt.

Either a PCR test no more than 48 hours before departure, or a rapid antigen test (also known as a lateral flow test) taken no more than 24 hours beforehand. An antigen test must be supervised.

Unvaccinated children are allowed to travel with their parents, but they still have to take a coronavirus test before departure.

Is my vaccine passport accepted in the Netherlands?

The NHS Covid Pass issued in England and Wales, the Scottish Covid Status app and the CovidCert app in Northern Ireland, or their paper equivalents, are valid as proof of vaccination at the border.

You will need to show a QR code proving you have been vaccinated or tested negative in the last 24 hours when you go to restaurants, bars, sports stadiums, theatres, cinemas and other indoor venues. NHS apps are now compatible with the Dutch ‘test for entry’ system. Unvaccinated travellers who need to obtain a QR code can book a free test for entry at testenvoortoegang.org .

If you’ve been vaccinated in the UK and live in the Netherlands, the GGD health service in Utrecht can validate NHS certificates. Visit https://www.ggdru.nl/corona or call 0300 800 2899.

Do I need to quarantine in the Netherlands?

Fully vaccinated travellers no longer have to quarantine in the Netherlands . Others will have to quarantine for 10 days or claim exemption. You can leave quarantine after five days with a negative test result (see below).

There are numerous exemptions from quarantine for cross-border workers and commuters, informal carers and people travelling for funerals. There is also an exemption for ‘necessary family visits’ to first and second-degree family members, i.e. parents, children, brothers and sisters, including step-families and relatives by marriage. The government’s website states: ‘Examples of necessary family visits include reunification with family members after a long period of separation due to the COVID-19 pandemic or a visit to a sick family member.’

If you’re not fully vaccinated you must fill in a quarantine declaration before travelling, either online or on paper . If you are claiming exemption you still need to complete the form and tick the relevant box. The form states that you need to take documents supporting your case, but the government website advises that ‘only a quarantine declaration is necessary’.

Your quarantine address and phone number are passed to the supervision team, who will call you to check you are complying . If you break quarantine you could be fined €339.

Testing on arrival is not mandatory, but if you’re required to quarantine you can end it early if you test negative on day five. This must be a PCR test. You can book a free test by calling the GGD hotline on 0800 1202 or +31 850 659 063 if you’re calling from abroad. If you have a Dutch DigiD you can book the test online at coronatest.nl. You are allowed to leave quarantine to take a coronavirus test.

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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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Travel documents required from EU citizens when travelling to the UK from 1 October 2021

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I am a refugee or stateless. Do I need a visa for the Netherlands?

Have you been recognised as a refugee or stateless person? And do you want to visit the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days with a travel document for refugees or stateless persons? Find out whether you need a visa.

Travel document issued by a Schengen country? No visa needed

Did a country in the Schengen Area issue your travel document for refugees or stateless persons? If so, you do not need a visa to travel to the Netherlands. You can stay in the Netherlands for a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period. You will, however, still need to meet certain requirements.

Find out about the requirements to travel to the Netherlands without a visa

Travel document issued by a country outside Schengen? You may need a visa

Did a country outside the Schengen Area issue your travel document for refugees or stateless persons? Whether you need a visa depends on your travel document.

I have a travel document for refugees that says ‘Convention of 28 July 1951’

Does your travel document say ‘Convention of 28 July 1951’ on its cover? If so, you do not need a visa if your travel document was issued by one of the countries on the list:

• United Kingdom

You can stay in the Netherlands without a visa for a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period. You will, however, still need to meet certain requirements.

Please note that if you want to travel to other countries in the Schengen Area during your trip, you may need a visa for those countries. Contact the embassy of those countries to find out whether you need a visa.

Was your travel document issued by a country not on the list? If so, you do need a Schengen visa for your trip to the Netherlands.

Find out how to apply for a Schengen visa in your country

I have a travel document for stateless persons that says ‘Convention of 28 September 1954’

Does your travel document say ‘Convention of 28 September 1954’ on its cover? If so, you do not need a visa if your travel document was issued by one of the following countries:

I have an I-571 issued by the United States

I have a different travel document.

You need a visa for your trip to the Netherlands.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us .

Can I travel to the UK with an ID card after Brexit or do I need a passport?

From 1 October 2021 you need a valid passport to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). If you become a UK resident on or before 31 December 2020, you can continue to use your ID card to travel between the Netherlands and the UK until at least the end of 2025.  

Visiting the UK

From 1 October 2021 you need a valid passport to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). The UK is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. For more information on travelling to the UK from 2021 . 

Dutch nationals living in the UK by 31 December 2020

If you become a UK resident on or before 31 December 2020, you are covered by the withdrawal agreement. This means you can continue to use your ID card to travel between the Netherlands and the UK until at least the end of 2025. You may need to show proof that you fall under the withdrawal agreement.  

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• Visas and immigration
• Travelling to the UK

Entering the UK

Your identity document (for example your passport or identity card) will be checked when you arrive at a UK port or airport to make sure you’re allowed to come into the country. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

You may also need a visa to come into or travel through the UK , depending on your nationality.

Check which documents you’ll need to come to the UK .

You do not need to take any Coronavirus (COVID-19) tests or fill in a passenger locator form. This applies whether you are fully vaccinated or not.

What you can bring with you

What you can bring with you depends on where you’re travelling from. You must declare to customs:

• anything over your duty-free allowance
• banned or restricted goods in the UK
• goods that you plan to sell
• more than €10,000 (or its equivalent) in cash, if you’re coming from outside the EU

You and your baggage may be checked for anything you must declare.

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