Note: This information is no longer current. Since September 17, 2022, there are no longer any corona rules for travelers to the Netherlands. You can travel to the Netherlands without a long-distance relationship statement, proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or negative test result. If you are subject to a visa requirement, you must of course first apply for a Schengen visa.
From 1 July, the European Commission wants to start opening borders to countries outside the EU in a controlled manner. The European Council, in which the member states are represented, must draw up a list of countries from which travelers can travel to the EU from that moment on.
The security situation in connection with the corona crisis in those countries must therefore be comparable to that in the EU and countries must in turn also allow travelers from the EU. The list is expected to be short, but more countries may be added. There are already countries in the European Union that allow travelers from outside, especially tourists.
European internal borders open on Monday
The European Commission is calling for all Schengen countries to open their internal borders from Monday 15 June. Most countries were already planning to open their internal borders or have already done so. For example, the border between Belgium and the Netherlands will officially open again on Monday.
There are also countries that think this is still too early, such as Spain and Portugal. Both Schengen countries, do not want to open their internal borders until June 30. And the United Kingdom, which is not a member of Schengen, has a 14-day quarantine rule for visitors.
Which countries are in the Schengen zone?
Most EU countries are also in the Schengen area. However, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland, Croatia and Romania are not in the Schengen zone, but are EU members. In addition to most EU countries, Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland also belong to the Schengen area.
Source: NOS.nl