27 Aug 2021 | 01:35 PM UTC
Netherlands: Authorities tighten COVID-19 international entry requirements for some locations as of Aug. 27 /update 43
The Netherlands amends COVID-19 entry requirements for some locations as of Aug. 27; domestic restrictions remain in place.
Event
Authorities have tightened entry restrictions for arrivals from Bulgaria, Norway, and the Jadranska Hrvatska Region of Croatia as of Aug. 27 in response to rising COVID-19 cases in those locations; Dutch officials now classify these areas as “high” risk. All arrivals from high risk locations, aged 12 or older, who are not fully vaccinated or have not recovered from the disease in the last six months, must show a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival or a negative result from an antigen test no older than 24 hours.
Authorities classify countries as low (or safe), high, or very high risk according to the local COVID-19 situation. The Netherlands generally only permits entry for residents of EEA or Schengen-associated countries, as well as those of the Dutch Caribbean Territories and low risk countries outside of the Schengen Zone. Officials prohibit most travel from other countries. Exemptions are in place for healthcare workers, people traveling to seek medical attention, those traveling for urgent family reasons, staff traveling to or from British or Dutch drilling platforms, air or sea crews traveling in the performance of their work, transiting EEA or Schengen Area residents, and returning Dutch nationals and residents. For a full list of countries and territories by classification, as well as relevant entry requirements, click here.
Domestic Restrictions
Most establishments and businesses can operate provided they maintain social distancing protocols of 1.5 meters (5 feet). Facemasks are mandatory on public transport. There are no restrictions on private and public indoor and outdoor gatherings, provided individuals can maintain social distancing. A summary of official domestic COVID-19 restrictions is available here.
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.
