Dutch Government removes all Covid-19 travel restrictions

The Government of the Netherlands has announced the removal of all Covid-19 related restrictions for travellers entering the country.

It has also removed restrictions for passengers arriving from countries located outside the European Union (EU) or Schengen area.

The new rules became effective on 17 September.

In a statement, the government said: “The Dutch government has decided to lift the EU entry ban for the Netherlands as of 17 September.

“Given the current epidemiological situation in the Netherlands, the government feels that for entry to the Netherlands the EU entry ban is no longer proportional.

“The European Commission is also planning to publish a proposal for revising the rules for entering the EU in autumn 2022.”

The Dutch Government had previously made it mandatory for visitors from the Schengen area and EU to show proof of vaccination or a recovery certificate to enter the Netherlands.

Prior to this, unvaccinated passengers from the US or Canada were not allowed to visit the country, while vaccinated passengers were required to present proof of vaccination.

Vaccination certificates also had to meet several criteria, such as the last dose being within the last nine months or with a vaccine approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or World Health Organisation (WHO).

In addition, the government is reported to have removed its mask mandate, but people have been advised to be more cautious and take required measures to safeguard themselves.

It is also advising high-risk patients to consult with their doctors before travelling and delay their trips if they feel more comfortable doing so.

In a separate development, Spain has further relaxed Covid-19 travel rules at its seaports and airports.

From 20 September, passengers who do not belong to the EU will no longer have to present Spain Travel Health (SpTH) information upon arrival.