Netherlands: Authorities lift ban on passenger flights from UK Dec. 23 /update 19

Event

The Netherlands has announced that as of 0001 Dec. 23, all arrivals by both sea and air from the UK and by air from South Africa must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) coronavirus (COVID-19) test prior to travel to the Netherlands; the test must have been taken within 72 hours prior to departure. This measure applies to all nationals on flights from the UK and South Africa, including EU and Dutch nationals. Officials stated that the measure is due to the spread of a variant strain of COVID-19 in the UK and South Africa, detected in the Netherlands. Previously, a ban on passenger flights from the UK and South Africa was in effect since 0600 Dec. 20.

Additionally, as of Dec. 23, a nationwide lockdown imposed earlier continues to be in place as part of the country's effort to counter increasing COVID-19 infection rates. The directive will remain in force through at least Jan. 19.

All nonessential retail stores remain closed; essential retail businesses, such as supermarkets, bakeries, butcher shops, and pharmacies, may remain open. Cinemas, amusement parks, museums, and other similar facilities accessible to the public must close. Non-medical contact services, such as barbershops and hair salons, are closed; medical contact services, including dentist and physical therapist offices, may continue operating. All indoor and outdoor gatherings are limited to two persons; three persons may gather at private homes on Christmas. Hotels may operate but cannot serve food or drink. Libraries and community centers may operate under certain strict limitations.

Schools at all education levels are restricted to conducting classes via distance learning techniques. Childcare availability is limited to the children of persons employed in essential professions.

The new lockdown restrictions are in addition to measures already in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Under existing directives, all individuals are advised to stay home as much as possible and avoid nonessential travel. Anyone over the age of 13 must wear a protective face covering in indoor public areas and on public transport. All food and beverage establishments are limited to takeout services only. Individuals must observe social distancing of 1.5 meters (5 feet) at all times, where possible.

Authorities in the Netherlands may further update the nation's COVID-19-related international travel regulations based on the recent lockdown declaration. As such, only travelers from European Economic Area (EEA) countries, Switzerland, and the UK, as well as residents of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Uruguay, remain permitted to enter. All non-EU nationals and residents must be in possession of a negative COVID-19 PCR test no older than 72 hours to enter the Netherlands. Authorities have stated they will expand this requirement to include EU and Dutch nationals; however, a date has yet to be set for this. Exceptions may be made for individuals with an essential function or need, such as health workers, on-duty security forces, freight workers, and diplomats, though all such travelers are required to self-isolate for 10 days on arrival. Arrivals from the following countries must also self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival:

Andorra
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Curacao
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Faaborg-Midtfyn, Greve, Koge, Slagelse, Solrod
Estonia
Finland: Helsinki-Uusimaa region, including the cities of Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Ireland: counties Dublin, Donegal, Limerick, and Louth
Italy
Latvia
Lichtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
Norway: Oslo, Vestland, Viken
Poland
Portugal
Romania
San Marino
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain, except the Canary Islands
Sweden
Switzerland
The UK
Non-EEA countries other than Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.