Do not travel to the Netherlands
If you are currently outside the Netherlands and want to travel or return to the Netherlands, read these 7 points before traveling. For example, when you need to show the PCR test result and how long you have to quarantine yourself.
Entry ban
If you are in a country that is a member of the European Union (EU) or the Schengen area, you are not banned from entering. If you are not a citizen of an EU or Schengen country, the ban on entry into the EU applies to you. You can travel to the Netherlands only if you fall into one of the categories of exemption from the travel ban.
The following are exceptions to the EU travel ban:
- Business travelers
- Students wishing to come to the Netherlands to study for less than three months
- Highly qualified migrants wishing to come to the Netherlands for work for less than three months
- Professionals in the cultural and creative sectors
- Citizens who are not Dutch and who are subject to arrangements for partners in distant relationships.
Flight ban
There is a ban on flights from the UK, Cape Verde, South Africa and Central and South America. There is also a ban on docking passenger ferries from the UK. Exemptions apply to certain limited categories of travelers.
Requirements for a negative PCR test result
If you travel to the Netherlands by plane, ship, train or bus from a high-risk area, you need to be tested for coronavirus. You must present a negative PCR test result before leaving. Certain benefits apply, including for diplomats and truck drivers. The PCR test result must meet certain requirements, and the smear must be taken no more than 72 hours before your arrival in the Netherlands. You do not need to show the PCR test result if you come from a country that is on the list of safe EU countries.
Negative fast test requirement
If you are traveling to the Netherlands by air or sea from a high-risk country, you must take a quick test shortly before departure. Certain exceptions apply, in particular for diplomats. The rapid test must meet certain requirements.
Negative declaration of testing
If you come from a non-EU or Schengen country and you are not a citizen of the EU or a Schengen country, you must complete a negative test declaration and carry it with you.
Declaration of health for air transport
If you travel by air, you must complete a health declaration and carry it with you. Some airlines allow you to fill out this status statement digitally at check-in.
Self-quarantine
You must self-quarantine within 10 days of arriving in the Netherlands. You can take the test again on the 5th day after your arrival. If the result is negative, you can end your quarantine.