Advisory Level: 2 – Exercise Increased Caution
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for the Netherlands, advising travelers to exercise increased caution due to terrorism. This advisory has been reissued with outdated references to COVID-19 precautions removed, reflecting the current state of travel.
Country Summary:
Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in the Netherlands. These attacks could occur with little or no warning, targeting areas frequented by tourists as well as local transportation hubs, markets, shopping centers, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting events, cultural events, educational institutions, and airports. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings.
If You Decide to Travel to the Netherlands:
- Be Vigilant: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
- Follow Local Authority Instructions: Pay attention to any movement restrictions and follow the guidance of local law enforcement.
- Monitor Local News: Stay updated on current events and adjust your plans accordingly.
- Enroll in STEP: Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive travel alerts and make it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
- Stay Connected: Follow the U.S. Department of State on Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates.
- Review Security Information: Read the Country Security Report for the Netherlands for detailed safety and security information.
- Check Health Advisories: Visit the CDC’s travel health page to stay informed on health issues that may affect your travel.
- Prepare for Emergencies: Have a contingency plan in place and review the Traveler’s Checklist to ensure you are ready for any situation.
Traveler’s Checklist:
- Get Informed: Understand the risks and requirements for your destination. Check travel advisories, learn about local laws, customs, and healthcare standards.
- Plan for Crises: Be ready for emergencies. Know what to do in case of an evacuation and consider purchasing evacuation insurance.
- Take Health Precautions: Stay up-to-date on vaccinations and health recommendations from the CDC and WHO.
- Manage Your Money: Notify your bank of your travel plans and understand how to access funds while abroad.
- Understand Special Considerations: Whether you’re an LGBTQI+ traveler, a journalist, a student, or traveling for religious reasons, familiarize yourself with relevant travel advice.
Safeguard Your Documents! Make two copies of all your travel documents in case of emergency. Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative at home and carry the other separately from your original documents. To help prevent theft, do not carry your passport in your back pocket, and keep it separate from your money.
Required Documents
- Passport: Apply several months in advance for a new passport. If you already have one, it should be valid for at least six months after you return home and have two or more blank pages, depending on your destination. Otherwise, some countries may not let you enter.
- Children’s passports: Passports issued for children under age 16 are valid for only five years, not 10 years like adult passports. Check passport expiration dates carefully and renew early.
- Europe Travel via Canada and UK: Europe’s 26 Schengen countries strictly enforce the six-month validity rule. If you are transiting through Canada or the UK : which do not have that requirement : your passport must be valid at least six months, or airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.
- Visas: You may need to get a visabefore you travel to a foreign destination. Contact the embassy of the countries you will be visiting for more information.
- Medications: Some prescription drugs, including narcotics and some U.S. over-the-counter medications, are illegal in other countries. Check with the embassy of your destination(s) about regulations and documentation before you travel.
- Consent for Travel with Minors: If you are traveling alone with children, foreign border officials may require custody documents or notarized written consent from the other parent. Check with the embassy of your foreign destination before traveling to see what you may need.
- International Driving Permit: Many countries do not recognize a U.S. driver’s license, but most accept an International Driving Permit (IDP). You may also need supplemental auto insurance. Read more about driving and road safety abroad before you go.