Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: ETIAS Authorization
Most visa-exempt travelers to the Netherlands now need ETIAS authorization (€7) - a straightforward online application that takes about 10 minutes and is valid for three years. Apply at least 72 hours before your trip to avoid delays, especially for entry via Schiphol Airport.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages for stamps. This is crucial for seamless entry at major hubs like Amsterdam Schiphol.
Double-check expiration dates well in advance, as some countries require additional validity for re-entry, and biometric passports are preferred for faster processing.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many others can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa in the Netherlands.
For longer stays, registration with the local IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) may be required, particularly if planning to work or study.
Visa Applications
For required visas, apply online via the Schengen visa system (€80 fee), submitting documents like proof of funds (€55/day recommended), accommodation details, and travel insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses.
Processing takes 15-45 days depending on your location and embassy workload; apply early for peak seasons like tulip time.
Border Crossings
The Netherlands' borders with Germany, Belgium, and other Schengen countries are largely seamless, but expect quick checks at airports like Eindhoven or Rotterdam.
Land and sea crossings, such as ferries from the UK, are efficient with ETIAS verification, and trains from neighboring countries require no border stops.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is essential, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and activities like cycling tours or windmill visits in the countryside.
Policies start at €5/day from reputable providers and must include repatriation coverage for Schengen compliance.
Extensions Possible
You can extend your stay for valid reasons, such as medical needs or business, by applying at a local IND office before your visa expires.
Fees are around €30-50 with supporting documents like proof of funds required; approvals are case-by-case and not guaranteed.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
The Netherlands uses the Euro (€). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Amsterdam Schiphol by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially during tulip season when prices spike.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at herring stands or food halls like Foodhallen for affordable meals under €12, skipping touristy restaurants to save up to 50% on food costs.
Local markets in cities like Utrecht offer fresh produce, cheeses, and ready-made meals at great prices, with picnic options for canal-side eating.
Public Transport Passes
Get an OV-chipkaart for unlimited regional travel at €20-40 for multi-day passes, cutting intercity costs significantly on NS trains.
City cards like the I amsterdam City Card include free public transport, museum entry, and bike rentals for €60-100 over 24-96 hours.
Free Attractions
Visit public parks like Vondelpark, bike along free canal paths, and explore street art in Rotterdam, which are cost-free and offer authentic Dutch experiences.
Many attractions like the Bloemencorso flower parade or windmill open days are free, and some museums offer discounted or free entry for students and seniors.
Card vs Cash
Cards are widely accepted even at small vendors, but carry €20-50 in cash for markets, flea markets, or rural cafes where contactless might not work.
Withdraw from bank ATMs like ING for better rates than airport or tourist exchange bureaus, and notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Museum Passes
Use the I amsterdam City Card for entry to multiple sites like Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House at €60 for 24 hours, perfect for cultural trips.
It pays for itself after visiting 3-4 attractions and includes free transport, making it ideal for efficient sightseeing in Amsterdam and beyond.
Smart Packing for Netherlands
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack layers for variable weather, including waterproof jackets and wind-resistant pants for the North Sea breezes and frequent rain in low-lying areas.
Include comfortable, modest attire for historical sites like the Anne Frank House and breathable fabrics for summer cycling tours across flat polders.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C/F), portable power bank for long bike rides, offline maps apps like Maps.me, and a smartphone with EU roaming enabled.
Download translation apps though English is common, and consider a compact camera for capturing tulip fields and windmills in high resolution.
Health & Safety
Carry travel insurance documents, a basic first-aid kit with motion sickness remedies for boat trips, any prescriptions, and high-SPF sunscreen for sunny days.
Include hand sanitizer, insect repellent for coastal dunes, and a reusable face mask for crowded indoor attractions like museums.
Travel Gear
Pack a lightweight daypack for sightseeing, reusable water bottle for staying hydrated on bike paths, quick-dry towel for unexpected swims, and euros in small denominations.
Bring photocopies of your passport, ETIAS approval, and a slim money belt or neck pouch for security in bustling areas like Amsterdam's Red Light District.
Footwear Strategy
Opt for sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or boots for exploring dikes and countryside trails, and comfortable sneakers or sandals for city walking and casual biking.
Cycling-specific shoes with clips are useful if renting bikes, and always pack extra socks for wet weather common in the Netherlands' maritime climate.
Personal Care
Include biodegradable toiletries to respect eco-friendly Dutch norms, lip balm with SPF for windy days, and a compact umbrella or poncho for sudden showers.
Travel-sized items like deodorant and skincare help with packing light for multi-city itineraries, and don't forget earplugs for lively nightlife in Rotterdam.
When to Visit Netherlands
Spring (March-May)
Ideal for tulip season at Keukenhof Gardens and blooming bulb fields in Lisse, with mild temperatures of 8-15°C and moderate crowds before summer peaks.
Perfect for cycling through flower routes, visiting windmills in Kinderdijk, and enjoying outdoor markets without excessive heat or rain.
Summer (June-August)
Peak season for festivals like Kings Day and Pride Amsterdam with warm weather around 18-25°C, long daylight hours for exploring.
Expect higher prices and crowds in Amsterdam - great for beach days in Zandvoort, canal boating, and outdoor concerts, but book accommodations early.
Autumn (September-November)
Excellent for harvest festivals in cheese markets like Alkmaar with colorful foliage and temperatures of 10-18°C, fewer tourists post-summer.
Ideal for hiking in the Veluwe National Park, apple picking, and cozy cafe visits with lower accommodation costs and vibrant fall events.
Winter (December-February)
Budget-friendly for Christmas markets in Maastricht and ice skating on frozen canals when possible, with temperatures of 0-6°C and occasional snow.
Perfect for indoor cultural experiences like the Rijksmuseum, Sinterklaas celebrations, and avoiding peak seasons while enjoying mulled wine and lights.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Euro (€). Exchange rates are stable. Cards widely accepted but carry cash for markets and bike rentals.
- Language: Dutch is official. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, with some Frisian in the north.
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1 (UTC+2 in summer)
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type C/F plugs (European two-pin round or flat)
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance
- Tipping: Not customary as service is included. Round up the bill or add 5-10% for exceptional service at restaurants.
- Water: Tap water is safe and high-quality to drink throughout the Netherlands
- Pharmacies: Widely available as 'apotheek'. Look for blue or green signs and they often require prescriptions for medications