Entry Requirements and Visas
The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means entry requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of EEA countries and Switzerland do not need visas and can stay up to 90 days with only a valid ID card or passport. Normal visas granted by any Schengen member country are valid throughout the Netherlands and other Schengen countries.
If you are from Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Vatican City, the United Kingdom, the United States, South Korea, or Switzerland, you can enter the Netherlands without a provisional residence permit to stay for more than 90 days for any purpose. However, you must complete registration formalities with the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) and obtain a residence permit within 90 days of entering. All other foreign nationals will likely need a provisional residence permit visa to stay longer than 90 days.
All non-EEA/Swiss travellers must register their residence within 5 business days of entering the Netherlands with the Aliens' Police or the municipality responsible for your place of residence. If you're staying at a hotel, the staff will typically handle this registration for you.
Money, Currency, and Typical Costs
The currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). The country has a developed economy with a high standard of living, which generally means costs for accommodation, dining, and attractions are moderate to high compared to some other European destinations. Budget airlines offer economical ways to reach the Netherlands from other European cities, particularly from the British Isles and Mediterranean regions, though booking as early as possible will secure better prices.
Taxis from the airport are expensive, so consider using train services or public transportation instead, which offer better value. Legal taxis have blue number plates; avoid unmarked taxis as they typically charge inflated fares.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Emergency numbers in the Netherlands are 112 for general emergencies and 911. Keep these numbers handy for any emergency calls you need to make while visiting.
Health
However, as a developed country in Western Europe, the Netherlands maintains high health and sanitation standards. Visitors should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance and that any necessary vaccinations are up to date before arrival.
Staying Connected
The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch, with West Frisian as a secondary official language in the province of Friesland. However, English is widely spoken and understood in major cities and tourist areas, making it relatively easy for English speakers to navigate and communicate.
Most modern accommodations and public spaces in the Netherlands offer reliable internet access.
Local Customs and Etiquette
The Netherlands has a long record of social tolerance and liberal attitudes. The country was the first to legalise same-sex marriage in 2001 and has progressive policies on various social issues. This cultural context reflects an open-minded and accepting society.
Many Dutch people prefer the country be called "the Netherlands" rather than "Holland." While "Holland" is frequently used informally to refer to the entire country, it actually refers only to two provinces (North and South Holland), which comprise just two of the twelve provinces and account for 38% of Dutch citizens. Using "the Netherlands" is the more accurate and officially preferred term as of 2019.
People from the Netherlands are referred to as Dutch. When referring to the country's residents or culture, use this demonym rather than assuming all Dutch people are from the Holland region.