Netherlands

The Land of Tulips
and Canals

Flag of The Netherlands
Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into the Netherlands.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in the Netherlands (Schengen Area requirement).

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from these nations can enter the Netherlands with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (e.g., US, Canada, Australia, UK, Japan).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from these nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a Schengen visa prior to entering the Netherlands (e.g., India, China, Russia).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter the Netherlands without an additional visa.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless from visa-exempt countries.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa if from visa-exempt countries or under specific agreements.

ID Card Entry
The following citizens can enter the Netherlands using only a valid national ID card:

  • European Union (EU) member states
  • European Economic Area (EEA) countries
  • Switzerland

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years (Schengen short-stay visa).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period across the Schengen Area.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions via https://www.government.nl/topics/coronavirus-covid-19.
Toll

Driving in The Netherlands

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, the main toll roads in the Netherlands are limited to specific infrastructure:

  • Westerschelde Tunnel: Connecting Terneuzen to Ellewoutsdijk in Zeeland.
  • Kil Tunnel: On the A15 between Dordrecht and Rotterdam (for heavy vehicles primarily).

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and time of day. For the most current rates, visit the official Westerschelde Tunnel website: https://www.westerscheldetunnel.nl/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Euro (EUR) is accepted at toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: Available via a telepass system; check compatibility at https://www.rws.nl/.

Driving in the Netherlands

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h (30 km/h in some zones)
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h (daytime), 130 km/h (19:00-05:00 where permitted)
  • Road conditions are excellent, though urban areas and cycle lanes require vigilance.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for non-EU/EEA visitors.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: The Netherlands does not use a vignette system; tolls are specific to certain tunnels and bridges.
  • Road Safety: Cyclists have priority in many areas; strict enforcement of speed and alcohol limits (0.5 g/L blood).
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable; watch for frequent roadworks in cities like Amsterdam.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Netherlands Currency

The official currency of the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 Euro
  • Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents; 1, 2 Euro
  • Symbol: €

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major train stations.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct Euro withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is accepted, but card payments dominate, especially in cities.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted universally; contactless payments are standard.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards (minimal within the Eurozone).
  • For current exchange info, visit the De Nederlandsche Bank website: https://www.dnb.nl/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in The Netherlands

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in the Netherlands, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for hard drug possession or trafficking (e.g., cocaine, heroin). Cannabis is tolerated in designated coffee shops but regulated; possession outside these areas can lead to fines.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces; cannabis smoking restricted to coffee shops.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing immigration or colonial history unless invited.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships and marriage are legal; the Netherlands is highly inclusive.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent) when entering/leaving the EU.

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics (outside regulated cannabis), weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within designated zones; some areas may charge for amenities.

Key Resources

Netherlands Travel Safety

The Netherlands is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a high quality of life. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in the Netherlands.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) occurs in tourist areas (Amsterdam, Rotterdam). Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: The Netherlands is considered safe; exercise normal caution in cities at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving is orderly, but watch for cyclists who have priority.
    • Avoid rural roads in winter due to potential flooding or ice.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe nationwide.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19.
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases:
    • Minimal risk; ticks in rural areas (e.g., Veluwe) may carry Lyme disease.
  • Altitude Sickness:
    • Not applicable; the Netherlands is mostly flat (highest point: Vaalserberg, 322 meters).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like AMC (Amsterdam) or Erasmus MC (Rotterdam) offer high standards. Rural areas have good care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 112 | Fire: 112 | Police: 0900-8844 (non-emergency).
  • Tourist Police (Amsterdam): +31 20 559 9111.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a bike or car; check insurance for rentals.
  • Hiking: Trails like the Pieterpad are safe with proper gear.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect cycling culture and personal space.
  • Air Quality: Monitor in cities like Amsterdam via https://www.luchtmeetnet.nl/.

Key Links

Flying to The Netherlands