Netherlands

The Land of Tulips
and Canals

Flag of The Netherlands

The Netherlands, located in Northwestern Europe, is known for its iconic canals, tulip fields, windmills, and rich cultural heritage. Its capital, Amsterdam, is famous for its historic architecture, art museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, and vibrant canals.

The Dutch culture is celebrated for its openness, cycling lifestyle, and love of art and design. Dutch cuisine includes dishes like stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and haring (raw herring). The Netherlands' flat landscapes, dotted with picturesque villages and windmills, make it a beautiful and progressive country with a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Travel Documents
Toll
Currency
Laws
Safety
Flights
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

Currency

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

Safety

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

Flights

Flying to The Netherlands

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