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People ask why the Netherlands isnât called Holland. The word Holland literally means 'wood land' and originally referred to the people living in the northern region of the Netherlands. Over time, it became more common to call the entire country Holland even though there are only two provinces, the North & South Holland, in the Netherlands today. Locals prefer Netherlands over Holland.
But with more bicycles, (22 million), than people, (17 Million), the Netherlands may be the perfect location for cycling and scenic views!
Before traveling, you may want to prepare ahead for any unforeseen medical or travel issues. This is when travel insurance is important to consider.
Travel Insurance is Mandatory
Travel insurance for the Netherlands is required. For non U.S. residents, travel insurance must be purchased before the issuance of your Schengen Visa.
Your travel insurance policy must include two specific guarantees: repatriation in the event of serious accident or death and coverage of medical costs up to 30,000.
With several Schengen Visa Insurance plans to choose from, VisitorsCoverage can help.
If traveling from the U.S., trip insurance with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, you may be able to recoup some of your costs if you need to cancel, postpone or cut short your original travel plans for any reason, including COVID-19-related concerns. We also have plans that cover the Covid-19 requirements.
COVID-19 in the Netherlands
There is currently a high level advisory for Covid-19. If you travel to the Netherlands, your vaccinations must be up to date. Also know the requirements of safety precautions while in-country. Do not travel if you test positive for Covid.
For the most up-to-date information on Covid restrictions for traveling, please follow CDC guidelines.
Covid information for your trip
Do you know the Covid situation for your destination? Keep up with country-specific advisories and notifications.
Health & safety
The Netherlands currently has an advisory to exercise increased caution due to terrorism. Here are some other health and safety tips for your stay:
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water arenât available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Donât touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Maintain Personal Security:
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel advisories and alerts from the U.S. Department of State.
- Carry contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel to avoid loss or theft
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave irreplaceable items at home.
Necessary vaccinations
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include:
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Flu (influenza)
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Shingles
- Tickborne Encephalitis (for bites from an infected tick)
For the most up-to-date information on required vaccinations and other health requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.
Visas & documentation
All visitors must have a valid passport at time of entry with at least three months validity beyond the planned date of departure from the Schengen area. For visitors who stay less than 90 days, a visa may not be required.
You do not require a visa if you are a national of:
- a European Union (EU) country
- Liechtenstein
- Norway
- Iceland
- Switzerland.
However, certain conditions do apply. These can be found on the website of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).
If you are not a national of one of the countries listed above, then you may need a short-stay Schengen visa.
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