Netherlands Travel Status

WATCH

Travel to the Netherlands is operating normally overall. International flights, airports and ordinary tourism continue, but travellers should be aware of current security guidance and the EU Entry/Exit System used for eligible non-EU visitors at external Schengen borders.

Ordinary tourism continues

Travel throughout the Netherlands is operating normally. No significant nationwide transport or tourism disruption has been identified.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol remains the country’s principal international gateway and continues to handle extensive international passenger services.

EU Entry/Exit System

The Entry/Exit System is now used for eligible non-EU nationals entering or leaving the Schengen Area for short stays. The system electronically records passport details and biometric information.

Biometric registration

Eligible travellers may have their photograph and fingerprints taken when crossing an external Schengen border. Self-service registration machines are available at Schiphol for some passengers.

Allow additional time

First-time EES registration can take additional time. Travellers entering or leaving the Schengen Area through a Dutch airport should allow sufficient time for immigration procedures.

90-day Schengen limit

For travellers subject to the Schengen short-stay rule, visits to the Netherlands count towards the maximum permitted stay of 90 days in any 180-day period.

ETIAS not yet operational

ETIAS is not currently operating. Travellers should not pay for an ETIAS or use unofficial websites claiming that an ETIAS authorization is already required.

Germany border checks

Germany currently operates temporary internal border controls, including its border with the Netherlands. Travellers crossing into Germany by road, bus or train should carry valid travel documents and allow for possible checks.

Belgium border

Ordinary cross-border travel between Belgium and the Netherlands continues under Schengen arrangements.

Security

The current U.S. advisory recommends increased caution because of terrorism risk. Travellers should remain aware of their surroundings in transport hubs, tourist locations, shopping areas and other crowded public places.

Petty crime

Pickpocketing and other petty theft can occur in busy tourist locations and on public transport, particularly in Amsterdam. Keep passports, phones and other valuables secure.

Ordinary travel operating normally

No significant current nationwide flight, airport or transport shutdown affecting ordinary tourism has been identified.

U.S. advisory updated in August

The U.S. State Department issued its latest Netherlands advisory on 18 August 2026 and maintains Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution because of terrorism.

EES now operational

Eligible non-EU short-stay travellers are now registered through the EU Entry/Exit System when crossing external Schengen borders.

Schiphol uses EES

EES registration at Dutch borders can include passport scanning, a photograph and fingerprints. Self-service machines are available for eligible travellers at Schiphol Airport.

ETIAS has not started

The Dutch government confirms that ETIAS is not currently operational and applications are not yet being accepted.

Check your airline and flight status before departure.

Confirm the Schengen visa and passport requirements that apply to your nationality.

If you are subject to the Entry/Exit System, allow additional time for biometric registration and immigration procedures.

Remember that time spent in the Netherlands counts towards the Schengen 90-day limit where that rule applies to you.

Do not pay for an ETIAS until the European Union officially announces that the system is operational.

If travelling from the Netherlands into Germany, carry valid travel documents because temporary German border checks are currently in place.

Remain alert in crowded tourist areas, major railway stations and airports and keep valuables secure.

Travel Status is designed to highlight significant changes that could affect a trip. It is not a replacement for official immigration, airline or government advice.