Note: This information is no longer current.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.
Tourists from a number of EU countries can go on holiday to the Netherlands from 15 June 2020. Foreign tourists must comply with the Dutch measures to combat the corona virus.
Can foreign tourists come to the Netherlands?
Foreign tourists from countries with comparable or lower health risks than in our country are welcome in the Netherlands this summer. Of course they must comply with all Dutch measures against the spread of the corona virus. A reservation of a holiday accommodation is mandatory.
The Netherlands has with all the others Schengen countries and the United Kingdom together closed the borders to people from outside Europe who are not on essential travel. This entry ban applies until 15 June 2020. Travelers from high-risk areas within and outside Europe must have a health declaration and are urgently advised to quarantine for 14 days after arrival. View the overview of the high-risk areas on the website of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
What are the rules in the Netherlands that I must adhere to during my holiday in the Netherlands?
During your stay in the Netherlands, you must comply with the Dutch rules to prevent the spread of the corona virus. These apply to everyone in the Netherlands, including tourists:
- Keep a distance of 1,5 meters (2 arm lengths) from others
- Wash your hands often
- Do not shake hands
- Cough and sneeze in the inside of your elbow
- Avoid crowds. If you see that it is becoming difficult to keep a distance of 1,5 meters: leave.
- Use your own transport, rent a bike or take a taxi. Use public transport only for essential travel. A non-medical face mask in public transport is mandatory.
Do I have to have a reservation for a holiday accommodation?
Make sure you book a holiday accommodation before you leave for the Netherlands. Without a valid reservation you can be stopped at the border.
Can I go anywhere in the Netherlands?
There are no restrictions to travel within the Netherlands. It is important to avoid crowds, so keep that in mind when choosing your destination. Consider another region or city instead of the major tourist attractions.
Will foreign tourists be fined if they do not comply with the rules of conduct?
When enforcing the corona rules of conduct in the Netherlands, no distinction is made between Dutch and foreign tourists.
Can foreign tourists use public transport in the Netherlands?
The same applies to tourists from abroad as to tourists from the Netherlands: public transport is intended for necessary trips. Holiday traffic is not included in this. Are you still traveling by public transport? Then a face mask is mandatory.
Are face masks mandatory at Schiphol and other airports?
It is currently not mandatory to wear a face mask at Dutch airports.
Do I get a standard temperature check before boarding?
No, this is not standard. Airlines may decide for themselves how they will implement the health check. Consult your airline for more information about the boarding procedure.
What are the alternatives for foreign tourists who want to get to/from Schiphol from/to their destination?
A shuttle service with coaches is used between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam. Furthermore, foreign tourists can use the taxi or rent a car.
Are the restaurants and cafés in the Netherlands open?
Yes, restaurants, cafes and terraces in the Netherlands are open under certain conditions. Reservations for a restaurant or café are mandatory (due to a maximum number of guests) and you will be asked in advance if you have a cold or a fever. Reservations for a terrace are not necessary. In all cases you must keep a distance of 1,5 meters from others who do not come from the same household. Everyone has a seat at the table or bar.
Are museums and other attractions open?
Museums and monuments are open by reservation. The maximum number of visitors depends on the surface area of each building. Visitors are asked if they have a cold or a fever.
What should I do if I get COVID-19 complaints during my holiday?
Do you have complaints that may indicate infection by the corona virus? Then stay indoors at your holiday address and have yourself tested. If you call 0800-1202, you will get someone on the line who will schedule an appointment with you. Are you infected with COVID-19? Then you and your travel companions must be quarantined at your holiday accommodation for two weeks.
Source: Nederlandenu
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