If you’re travelling to the Netherlands, it can be a tough situation if you aren’t aware of the rules and regulations that the Dutch government requires you to follow. From boarding flights and primary vaccinations to having your identity card and travel plans and vaccination centres, everything is included in this article to make your trip less of a headache and a hundred times more enjoyable!

You should remain vigilant and meet requirements that can save you a lot of hassles. There are restrictions on bringing meals and drinks into the EU. For more information, see Bringing Food and Drink into the Netherlands on the EU website.

Rules for Entering the Netherlands

1. Get Yourself Vaccinated

When travelling to the Netherlands, make sure you get your vaccinations on time. This can range from four to six weeks before a brief journey to six months for long trips or emigration. You can be vaccinated at the vaccination clinic or, in certain cases, by your family doctor.

If your child requires vaccinations, the baby clinic or, in certain cases, your family physician can assist.

2. Travelling to the Netherlands With Proof of Vaccination Status

Residents of countries other than the EU/Schengen area are barred from entering the EU. There are some exceptions, such as those with proof of vaccination. This vaccination proof must meet certain criteria.

3. Valid Documents

People travelling to the Netherlands should demonstrate proof that they have valid travel documents. This can be a form of identification or a passport (for travel within Europe). It may be mandatory for you to carry a visa, depending on your nationality. You must have a passport or travel document from the last ten years. In addition, your travel document must be valid for three months after you end up leaving the Schengen area. Any family member accompanying you must have a valid travel document.

4. Illegal drugs

Do not bring any illegal drugs when travelling to the Netherlands, and do not take any with you when you end up leaving. These are criminal charges.

Theft of ID documents

There is a risk of theft in the Netherlands, just like in any other country.

• In the event that an identification document is lost or stolen,
• Report it to the police department right away.
• Make a copy of the report and keep it on hand at all times.
• As soon as possible, apply for a substitute document.

The authorities and government in some states may require your passport or a copy of it in order to report it. Bring a photocopy or electronic copy of your passport with you before you leave.

5. Medicines

When travelling to the Netherlands, make absolutely sure you get enough of any medication you use to last the duration of your trip, plus some extra in case you want or need to stay somewhat longer. Most medicines are permitted to be brought with you as long as you can demonstrate that they are for your personal use. Check the laws and regulations on attempting to bring in medicines.

The Opium Act applies to strong analgesics and sedatives. These medications can only be brought into the Netherlands if you already have an official medicine certificate. This certificate may also have to be legalized beforehand.

6. Money

You should have a minimum of €55 per day for the period of stay in order to enter the Netherlands. Residents of Schengen or EU countries are not required to show proof of funds, even if they enter the Netherlands from a non-EU country.

Take out adequate travel insurance to cover unexpected costs if you are forced to return early following an accident, illness, or death of a friend, relative, or family member.

Places to Visit in the Netherlands

1. Trip to the Historic Haarlem

Explore the city and see the old buildings of the ruling elite who helped bring the city to popularity. There isn’t much to do here, but the downtown area has a good market and a towering Gothic, and it’s a low-key option to Amsterdam’s hustle and bustle.

2. Celebrate King’s Day (Koningsdag)

Each year, on the 27th of April, the Dutch commemorate King Willem Alexander’s birthday for Koningsdag. For 33 years, they commemorated Queen Beatrix as part of Queen’s Day on April 30th.

However, when she carried the crown to her son in 2013, the celebration changed dates, and Queen’s Day became King’s Day. It’s a national holiday celebrated with outdoor events, loads and loads of orange (the national colour), lots of drinking, and insane canal celebrations. It’s one of the most bizarre national holidays I’ve ever observed.

Final Note

It is important for people travelling to the Netherlands to keep a close check on the rules and regulations that the Dutch government currently poses. It is advised to take an RTPCR test, and only if there is a negative pre-departure test will you be allowed to continue with your travel. Ensure that you take your final dose of vaccination before starting your journey since it is mandatory to have a double vaccination status.

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Parina Parmar