Netherlands: Authorities to expand COVID-19-related testing requirements for international arrivals from Dec. 29 /update 20

Event

Effective 0001 Dec. 29, authorities in the Netherlands will require all travelers arriving by air, sea, train, and coach traveling more than 30 km (18 miles) from the border, to present a negative coronavirus disease (COVID-19) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test prior to travel to the Netherlands. The test must have been taken within 72 hours prior to departure. The measure is already in place for all non-EU nationals and residents and EU and Dutch nationals traveling from the UK and South Africa, but will now be expanded to all commercial passengers, including those transiting through Dutch airports and Dutch nationals.

Additionally, as of Dec. 27, 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. 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 recent 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. Only travelers from European Economic Area (EEA) countries, as well as residents of Dutch Caribbean Territories, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand, remain permitted to enter. While the COVID-19 testing requirements will be expanded from Dec. 29, 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. As of Dec. 27, arrivals from the following countries must also self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival:

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

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.