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Netherlands

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Exercise normal safety precautions in the Netherlands.

Netherlands (PDF 208.02 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

• In December 2023, the Netherlands  national terrorism threat level  was raised to 'substantial' - level 4 of 5. 
• Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Terrorists may target tourist areas and attractions or other places frequented by foreigners. Public transport is also a possible target. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Drink spiking is also a risk.
• Watch out for thieves who pose as plain-clothed police officers.
• Take care of your belongings, particularly at tourist spots and on public transport.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Medical care and facilities are of a similar standard to those in Australia.
• Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with the Netherlands, meaning you can access urgent and emergency treatment in public medical facilities. You need to  apply  for this via the  Zilveren Kruis . You still need travel insurance.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Only Dutch residents can legally buy or use cannabis. It's against the law for non-residents. 
• Anyone aged over 14 is required by law to carry ID at all times. You must present your ID to law enforcement officers when requested.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the Netherlands for the latest details.
• The Netherlands and many other European countries are part of the  Schengen Area . In some cases, you can enter the Netherlands without a visa.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy to The Netherlands  in The Hague.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

The  national terrorism threat level  was raised in December 2023 and remains at level 4 'substantial', meaning there's a realistic possibility of an attack. 

Tourist areas, public transport and transport hubs are possible targets. 

Previous incidents include:

• November 2020 - shots were fired outside the Saudi Arabian Embassy in The Hague.
• November 2019 - police arrested two individuals allegedly planning a jihadist terrorist attack.
• March 2019 - a shooting on a tram in Utrecht resulted in 4 deaths and 6 injured. Police treated the incident as terror-related.

Terrorist attacks happen across Europe. Targets may include:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• public places frequented by foreigners.

European security services have also stopped some planned attacks.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public areas
• report any suspicious activity to the police
• monitor the media for any new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities.

If there's an attack, leave the area immediately as soon as it's safe to do so. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

More information:

Crimes such as theft, including passport theft, pickpocketing and bag snatching, are more common in summer in urban and tourist areas, particularly in Amsterdam. Thieves often work in pairs, with one distracting and the other stealing from you. ATMs around nightclubs, coffee shops and bars are frequent targets. There's been an increase in reports of theft whilst eating in restaurants, including hotel breakfast rooms.

Pickpockets also target passengers in transportation hubs such as central train stations and Amsterdam Schiphol airport, focusing on bag snatching and mobile devices.

Incidents of petty crime on trains along the Amsterdam—Brussels-Paris routes are frequent. 

To stay safe from crime:

Take care of your belongings, particularly on public transport and in busy tourist spots. When on public transport, ensure you always have visibility and possession of your personal belongings. 

Thieves sometimes pose as plain-clothed police officers. They may ask to check money and credit cards to look for counterfeits. They'll then rob you.

If plain-clothed police ask to check your money or credit cards, offer to walk them to the nearest police station to verify their identity and demands.

In the event of theft, contact the nearest police station and get a police report.

Drink Spiking

Drink spiking can occur at popular nightclubs and bars, often leading to  sexual assault .

To protect yourself from drink spiking:

• don't leave drinks unattended
• don't accept drinks from strangers.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  
• The Australian Cyber Security Centre

Civil unrest and political tension

Civil unrest is rare, and protests are generally peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. 

Avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Natural disasters

Severe weather  can affect your travel overseas. Monitor local media for updates.

If you're visiting an area recently affected by severe weather:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• confirm your plans with your tour operator or travel provider
• check the condition of roads, transport and facilities with local tour operators and hotels.

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in the Netherlands. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• Can I take medication into the Netherlands? | NetherlandsWorldwide

Health risks

Health risks in Netherlands are similar to those in Australia.

More information

• Government of Netherlands  website

Medical care

Medical facilities and care standards are similar to that in Australia. Major hospitals are in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague, and most Doctors and medical professionals speak English. Medical costs are high.

Australia has a  reciprocal health care agreement  with the Netherlands, meaning you can access urgent or emergency treatment in the public hospital system with a valid Medicare card. You can  apply  for your A111 Certificate of Eligibility when you arrive in the Netherlands or before you travel.

The reciprocal health care agreement doesn't:

• cover treatment in private hospitals or as a private patient in a public hospital
• cover treatment if you travel to the Netherlands specifically to get medical treatment
• replace the need for travel insurance.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

The minimum age for buying alcohol and tobacco is 18 years.

You can only buy or use marijuana (cannabis) in designated shops if you're a resident of the Netherlands and 18 years or older.

You could face criminal penalties, including fines and jail, if:

• you buy or use cannabis outside of designated places
• you buy or use cannabis in a designated place, but you're not a resident of the Netherlands
• you possess or sell illegal drugs or narcotics, including psychoactive 'magic mushrooms'.

Taking drugs will weaken your decision-making ability, putting you at greater risk of violence, robbery or  sexual assault .

• Carrying or using drugs
• Partying safely

Under Dutch law, everyone over 14 years old must carry an ID. You could show either:

• a valid passport
• a driver's licence
• an identity card or
• a Dutch residency card
• Dutch police officers and other authorities can request to see these documents at any time. They may fine you if you can't show your ID.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

The Netherlands recognises dual citizens. 

• dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

The Netherlands is part of the  Schengen Area , along with many other European countries, meaning you can enter the Netherlands without a visa in some cases. In other situations, get a visa before you travel.

Always carry your passport when crossing borders, in the  Schengen area , even by road or rail.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules. 

• Visa for the Netherlands | NetherlandsWorldwide
• Travelling to the Netherlands | Government.nl
• Travel | NetherlandsWorldwide

Travelling with Children

Border control authorities may be wary of  children travelling  with only one parent or guardian. Non-travelling parents can complete a ' Permission to Travel ' form to make this easier.

• Travelling with children

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• in Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• if you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The currency of the Netherlands is the Euro.

The Netherlands is a member of the European Union (EU). If you travel between the Netherlands and any non-EU country, you must declare over 10,000 euros (or equivalent) cash. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You'll need to pay a fine if you don't declare or give the wrong information on entry or exit.

You don't need to declare currency if you're travelling to or from another EU country. 

• Government of the Netherlands

Local travel

Border crossings.

Carry your passport when crossing borders, even within the Schengen Area. Stay informed about border conditions by checking local news and asking transport providers.

Driving permit

For short visits, you'll need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a valid Australian driver's licence. You must be at least 18 years old to drive in the Netherlands.

After 185 days, you'll need to apply for a Dutch licence.

Car rental companies may require both documents.

Digital driver's licences may not be accepted.

Driving without an IDP where one is required can void your travel and vehicle insurance.

You must be at least 21 to hire a car in the Netherlands.

• Driving with a foreign driving licence | RDW

Road travel

Road conditions are similar to those in Australia, but some basic rules differ. Drive on the right-hand side and overtake on the left. This is the 'priority to the right' system.

Give way to traffic and cyclists approaching from the right unless otherwise indicated.

Trams, cyclists and mopeds have the right of way.

Get to know the local road rules before you drive or ride a vehicle.

Pedestrians and bicycles:

• bicycles are common
• many roads have bicycle pathways, usually coloured red, between the pedestrian footpath and the roadway, as well as bicycle traffic lights
• don't walk on these pathways. Cyclists travel fast and have the right of way
• accidents and injuries resulting from collisions between cyclists and pedestrians are common.
• Mopeds with a maximum speed of 45kph must be driven in the street, not on bicycle pathways or dedicated bike lanes.
• Both a driver's licence and moped insurance are required.

E-Scooters are illegal.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Ensure your travel insurance covers you when riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use licenced, official metered taxis. Licenced taxis have a blue number plate.

Unlicenced taxis are a problem in larger cities, particularly in Amsterdam.

Rideshare options are legal and readily available.

Public Transport

The Netherlands has a well-developed rail transport system between cities and a large tram and bus network in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague.

Pickpockets operate on intercity and international trains.

Pay close attention to your passport and other valuables when on trains, especially when taking international services to Belgium and France.

Check  Home | NS  for timetable, routes, and any service disruptions.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  the Netherlands' air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

You can get consular help from the Australian Embassy in The Hague.

Australian Embassy, The Hague

Carnegielaan 4 2517 KH The Hague Netherlands Phone: (+31 70) 310 8200 Website:  netherlands.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in the Netherlands X: AusAmbNL Instagram: AusEmbNL

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia.

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Netherlands Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Australia to the Netherlands

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

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Can I travel to the Netherlands from Australia?

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Netherlands.

Can I travel to the Netherlands if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter the Netherlands without restrictions.

Can I travel to the Netherlands without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Australia can enter the Netherlands without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the Netherlands?

Visitors from Australia are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the Netherlands.

Can I travel to the Netherlands without quarantine?

Travellers from Australia are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the Netherlands?

Mask usage in the Netherlands is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the Netherlands?

Restaurants in the Netherlands are open. Bars in the Netherlands are .

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What do I need to travel to the Netherlands?

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Netherlands

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Netherlands - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the Netherlands due to  terrorism.

Country Summary : Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in the Netherlands. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Netherlands.  

If you decide to travel to the Netherlands:   

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by large crowds or foreign nationals.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Netherlands.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

A passport must be valid for at least three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area . The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not accepted by Dutch authorities for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.

Two pages required for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy the hague.

John Adams Park 1 2244 BZ Wassenaar Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 (0) 70 310 2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 70 310 2207

U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam Museumplein 19 1071 DJ Amsterdam Telephone: +(31) (0) 20 575-5309 (Emergencies involving U.S. citizens only ) Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 (All other calls) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330 Email:   [email protected]  

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on the Netherlands for information on U.S.-Netherlands relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. 

Visit the  Embassy of the Netherlands  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Dutch immigration authorities do not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.  If traveling on this emergency passport, please be aware that you will be refused entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the United States is available.  We strongly urge U.S. citizens in possession of the 12-page U.S. emergency passport to replace it with a full-validity passport before traveling to the Netherlands by air. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the Netherlands.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Crime: While the rate of violent crime in the Netherlands is low, tourists are often targeted by pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves and are active in and around train, tram, and metro stations in city centers; and aboard public transportation, especially to and from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Thieves often work in pairs: one distracts you, often by asking for directions, while the other moves in on your unguarded property. Use your hotel safe, and keep baggage locked or secured when you are away. Avoid leaving valuables in automobiles, especially electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, GPS devices, and mobile telephones. Never leave your personal items or baggage unattended.

Most retailers in the Netherlands only accept a “chip and pin” card and will not accept a standard U.S. credit card containing only a magnetic strip. ATM and credit card users are advised to keep an eye on their cards at all times. If you feel uncomfortable using your card for any reason, use cash. Contact your credit card provider for further guidance.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 112 or 0900-8844 for non-emergency cases.  See above for contact information for the U.S. Embassy The Hague and U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes in the Netherlands.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

The organization Slachtofferhulp Nederland (Victim Support Netherlands) provides a range of services for victims of crime, traffic accidents or disasters within the Netherlands. For more information, visit their webpage .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is well-regulated and rules in regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide lifesaving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Despite common misperceptions, marijuana and hashish are controlled substances in the Netherlands, and although not enforced in defined tourist areas, possession is a crime that can result in a fine. “Coffee shops” are havens for petty criminals who prey on tourists and other individuals under the influence of drugs. Persons who visit “coffee shops” have become victims of pickpocketing, identity theft, sexual assault, and other crimes. Visitors are cautioned against using such substances, as they are often counterfeit and can cause illness or death. It is illegal to take any controlled substance, such as marijuana, into or out of the Netherlands.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers  
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in the Netherlands. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : Dutch law guarantees equality and the right to access for people with disabilities. Information about accessibility in the Netherlands for travelers with disabilities is available on the Netherlands main online portal for visitors.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:  For information about COVID-19 testing in the Netherlands, visit the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport webpage .

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in the Netherlands if they are residents.  Visit the Dutch government’s COVID-19 page for more information about obtaining the COVID-19 vaccine in the Netherlands. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Good medical facilities are widely available in the Netherlands. Pharmacies (“Apotheek”) are widely available and can assist with emergency prescription needs. Some common medications are not available in the Netherlands without a prescription, and some prescription drugs cannot be imported into the country.

For emergency services in the Netherlands, dial 112.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas coverage.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Carry an adequate supply of prescription drugs in their original container in your carry-on luggage. Carry a letter from your pharmacist or medical doctor with you, as some drugs are subject to confiscation by local customs agents.  Check with the government of the Netherlands to ensure the medication is legal in the Netherlands. If you are traveling with any pre-existing medical conditions, bring a letter from your physician that describes your medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic name of any prescribed drugs.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Lanes in the center of many urban two-way streets are reserved for buses, trams, and taxis.
• In cities, pedestrians should be mindful of trams and buses, which often cross or share bicycle and pedestrian paths. Serious and sometimes fatal accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists colliding with trams and buses occur each year.
• Motorists should be especially mindful of the fact that bicyclists have the right-of-way; motorists must yield to bicyclists.
• Pedestrians should not walk along bicycle paths, which are often next to the sidewalk and usually designated by red pavement.

Traffic Laws:  

• A valid driver’s license issued by a Department of Motor Vehicles in the United States is valid for use in the Netherlands while in tourist or visitor status. Please check here (Dutch only) for more information.
• You must use seat belts and child seats.
• Driving is on the right side of the road, as in the United States.
• Speed limits are strictly enforced by radar. Traffic cameras are common throughout the Netherlands, and it is possible to receive a ticket for traveling even 2-5 km/h over the limit. Different limits may apply to certain hours of the day, as posted.
• Drivers must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and bicyclists coming from the right at intersections or traffic circles unless otherwise posted.
• The maximum allowable blood-alcohol content in the Netherlands is 0.05 percent.
• The maximum allowable blood-alcohol limit for those who have had a driver’s license for less than five years is 0.02 percent.
• Use of cellular telephones for talking or texting while driving without the use of a hands-free device is prohibited and is punishable by significant fines.
• Bicyclists and pedestrians should be particularly cautious during the winter months, when paths, roads, and especially bridges can become icy and extremely slippery.

Public Transportation: 

Rail is often a convenient alternative to driving, particularly in the areas around Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, where road congestion is frequent. Rail network information is available at http://www.ns.nl/en . It is relatively safe to travel by rail from city to city, compared to some other European countries but be aware of pickpockets. Taxi service in the Netherlands is safe but expensive. Trams and buses are both convenient and economical but are often frequented by pickpockets.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions .

Aviation Safety Oversight: 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the Netherlands’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Netherland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:

Mariners planning travel to the Netherlands should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Netherlands . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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Which visa do I need to travel to the Netherlands?

If you want to stay in the Netherlands for less than 90 days, you may need a short-stay Schengen visa. Whether you need a visa to visit the Netherlands depends on your nationality and your travel plans.

Possible visa requirement

You can see on Netherlands Worldwide whether you need a visa or not . You can also read there how to apply for the visa.

Even if you do not need a visa, you must still meet certain conditions in order to visit the Netherlands . These can be found on the website of Netherlands Worldwide.

Other types of visa for the Netherlands

There are also other types of visa besides the short-stay Schengen visa. One example is an airport transit visa, which you may need if you are transiting through a Dutch airport.

You can find more information on visas for the Netherlands on Netherlands Worldwide.

The distance from the middle of Australia to the middle of the Netherlands is:

9,221 miles / 14 840 km flying, map of distance from australia to netherlands, more trip calculations.

• Reverse Distance
• Flight Time
• Airports in Netherlands
• airlines flying to Netherlands
• Nonstop Flights
• Time Difference

Distance from Australia to Netherlands

The total straight line flight distance from Australia to Netherlands is 9,221 miles .

This is equivalent to 14 840 kilometers or 8,013 nautical miles .

Your trip begins in Australia. It ends in the Netherlands.

Your flight direction from Australia to Netherlands is Northwest (-42 degrees from North).

The distance calculator helps you figure out how far it is to get from Australia to Netherlands. It does this by computing the straight line flying distance ("as the crow flies") and the driving distance if the route is drivable. It uses all this data to compute the total travel mileage.

related links

• airports in Australia
• cities in Australia

Netherlands

• airports in Netherlands
• cities in Netherlands

Distance calculator

Travelmath helps you find distances based on actual road trip directions, or the straight line flight distance. You can get the distance between cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes to figure out the best route to travel to your destination. Compare the results to the straight line distance to determine whether it's better to drive or fly. The database uses the latitude and longitude of each location to calculate distance using the great circle distance formula. The calculation is done using the Vincenty algorithm and the WGS84 ellipsoid model of the Earth, which is the same one used by most GPS receivers. This gives you the flying distance "as the crow flies." Find your flight distances quickly to estimate the number of frequent flyer miles you'll accumulate. Or ask how far is it between cities to solve your homework problems. You can lookup U.S. cities, or expand your search to get the world distance for international trips. You can also print out pages with a travel map.

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• Travel Updates

‘We’re full’: Aussies warned over Euro summer of chaos

A number of European hotspots have begun a controversial measure that will affect everyone planning a long-awaited soiree in the northern hemisphere sun.

Photo of men standing on rock sparks outrage

Why you should renew your passport now

Woman’s horror after plane’s blackout

European tourist hotspots like Amsterdam and Venice, are on a crusade to deal with surging visitor numbers, which could ruin many Australians’ annual pilgrimage to the summer sun.

In Venice, one of the world’s top tourist destinations, 3.2 million visitors stayed overnight in the historic centre in 2022 — dwarfing the resident population of just 50,000.

As of today, it will charge day trippers for entry to try and keep the numbers down.

Day visitors will have to buy a five-euro ($5.3) ticket, monitored by inspectors carrying out spot checks at key points across the UNESCO world heritage site.

In 2021, it banned huge cruise ships from Venice lagoon over concerns about the environmental impact of the huge liners on the city.

Venice has also introduced a tax for overnight visitors.

Netherlands

Amsterdam has long been trying to clean up a reputation for rowdy stag parties, drugs and sex that has been partly blamed on an influx of around 20 million visitors a year.

In 2023 it launched an online campaign aimed at discouraging young British men from travelling to Amsterdam to get high or very drunk, telling them in typically blunt Dutch fashion to “stay away” or risk arrest.

Amsterdam also announced last week a ban on new hotels and that it would halve the number of river cruise ships in the city within five years.

It also decided last year to ban smoking cannabis on the streets of the red-light district.

Croatia’s medieval walled city of Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s most overcrowded cities, with the flow of tourists sometimes making it impossible to walk inside the historic Old Town.

The jewel of the Adriatic has seen a huge surge in visitor numbers since scenes from the series “Game of Thrones” were filmed on its ramparts in 2011.

In 2023, the town of 41,000 people received 1.2 million tourists, below 2019’s record of 1.4 million.

In 2019 local authorities limited the number of cruise ship arrivals to two per day, with no more than 4,000 passengers each at a time.

They also launched an app that uses machine learning and weather forecasts to predict when the Old Town, a UNESCO world heritage site, will be busiest.

Nestled on the coast of the Mediterranean, Barcelona is the capital of the Catalonia region, home to famed Gaudi architectural gems and one of Spain’s top football clubs.

Ada Colau, the leftist former housing rights activist who was mayor of the city between 2015 and June 2023, cracked down on illegal Airbnb rentals that were accused of pricing locals out of the property market.

More Coverage

The city also limited the entrance of tour groups in the historic La Boqueria market, especially during peak shopping times.

And throughout the centre organised groups must be limited to a maximum of 20 people and guides are not allowed to use loudspeakers.

In 2023 tourist numbers registering in hotels, homes and hostels were down 6.9 per cent compared with 2019 figures, according to the City Council.

A photo of three young men standing on a rock in the Queensland bush has sparked furious controversy online.

A graph has revealed just how expensive the Aussie passport is compared to other countries from around the world — does it surprise you?

More than a dozen passengers have walked off an early morning flight to Indonesia following “technical issues” before takeoff.