Netherlands

Overall: Exercise normal safety precautions

Latest update

Still current at:14 July 2026
Updated:02 July 2026
Latest update:Depending on why you're travelling and how long you plan to stay, you may require a visa for travel to the Schengen area. Check the European Entry and Exit (EES) and visa rules before you travel. If you're a dual national of a European country, check whether the EES applies to you and what passport you should enter on. There may be delays at border crossings (see ‘Travel’).

The Netherlands national terrorism threat level remains at 'substantial' - level 4 of 5. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities (see 'Safety').

We advise:

Exercise normal safety precautions in the Netherlands.

Netherlands-map_18June2025
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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112.

Police

Call 112.

Advice levels

What does this mean?

Exercise normal safety precautions

Exercise normal safety precautions in the Netherlands.

Overview

The situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable. Military conflict in the Middle East region may cause travel disruptions and your travel plans may be affected even if your destination is not the Middle East. ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ also means ‘reconsider your need to transit’. If you need to transit any level 3 locations, stay as short a time as possible and eliminate unnecessary activities.

In Europe, prioritise your safety, monitor developments closely and follow local authorities’ advice, including any warnings to avoid areas deemed to be at high risk of targeting.

For more information, see our page on the Travel and security impacts of conflict in the Middle East.

Safety

  • The Netherlands' national terrorism threat level is set at 'substantial' - level 4 of 5.
  • Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Terrorists may target tourist areas and attractions or other places frequented by foreigners. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in tourist areas and on public transport. Take care of your belongings.
  • Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended.

Full travel advice: Safety

Health

  • Medical care and facilities are of a similar standard to those in Australia.
  • Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with the Netherlands, meaning you can access urgent and emergency treatment in public medical facilities. You need to apply for this via the Zilveren Kruis. You still need travel insurance.

Full travel advice: Health

Local laws

  • Only Dutch residents can legally buy or use cannabis. It's against the law for non-residents.
  • By law, anyone over 14 must always carry ID and present it to law enforcement officers when requested.

Full travel advice: Local laws

Travel

  • The Netherlands is a part of the Schengen area, which means you can enter the Netherlands without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa.
  • If you’re travelling to a country in the Schengen area for a short stay (90 days or less) using an Australian passport, you’ll be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, when you arrive. You don’t need to take any action before you arrive at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration. There may be delays at border crossings.
  • Depending on why you're travelling and how long you plan to stay, you may require a visa for travel to the Schengen area. Check the EES and visa rules before you travel. If you're a dual national of a European country, check whether the EES applies to you and what passport you should enter on.
  • The Netherlands has temporary border checks along its land borders with Belgium and Germany. Travellers should carry a valid passport when crossing borders.
  • Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the Netherlands for the latest details.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

  • The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.
  • For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy to The Netherlands in The Hague.
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Safety

Terrorism

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

The national terrorism threat level remains at level 4 'substantial', meaning there's a realistic possibility of an attack. 

Tourist areas, public transport and transport hubs are possible targets. 

Terrorist attacks happen across Europe. Targets may include:

  • public transport
  • transport hubs
  • public places frequented by foreigners.

European security services have also stopped some planned attacks.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

  • be alert to possible threats, especially in public areas
  • report any suspicious activity to the police
  • monitor the media for any new or emerging threats
  • take official warnings seriously
  • follow the advice of local authorities.

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

Crime

Petty crime can occur, including phone snatching, pickpocketing and theft from unattended bags and vehicles. Bags and personal items, including passports, can be stolen on public transport and in urban and tourist areas.

Incidents of petty crime on trains along the Amsterdam—Brussels—Paris routes are frequent. 

To stay safe from crime:

  • Take care of your belongings, particularly on public transport, at night, in restaurants, hotels and busy tourist spots. Ensure you always have visibility and possession of your personal belongings.
  • If approached by people claiming to be plain-clothed police asking to check your money or credit cards, offer to walk them to the nearest police station to verify their identity and demands.
  • In the event of theft, contact the nearest police station and get a police report.

More information:

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

Drink spiking

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert, don’t leave your food or drinks alone. Watch when your drink is being mixed. If you feel unwell, tell your friends immediately and get to a safe place. Keep an eye on your friends - if they feel unwell, stay with them. Get medical help if needed.

Methanol poisoning

People have died or become very sick from poisoned drinks overseas. This includes Australians. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Methanol can be added or accidentally created during poor quality alcohol production. Only drink branded, sealed drinks. Get urgent medical help if you think you’ve been poisoned.

More information:

Cyber security

You could face cyber threats in any country, anyone is a target. Your devices and data can be stolen, especially when using public Wi-Fi, computers, or Bluetooth. Criminals can use stolen information to conduct scams or to resell your personal information.

The Australian Cyber Security Centre has advice on how to protect yourself online.

Social media can also be risky in places with social or political tensions or strict laws. People have been arrested for what they posted online. Check the laws of the destination you’re travelling to and think about what you post on social media. The Australian Government can’t get you out of trouble if you’re accused of breaking the law.

More information:  

Civil unrest and political tension

Civil unrest is rare, and protests are generally peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. 

Avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.

More information:

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Severe weather can affect your travel overseas. Monitor local media for updates.

If you're visiting an area recently affected by severe weather:

  • follow the advice of local authorities
  • confirm your plans with your tour operator or travel provider
  • check the condition of roads, transport and facilities with local tour operators and hotels.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Health

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave and closely read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for what is and isn’t covered.

It must cover all medical costs overseas, including evacuation. The Australian Government will not pay for these costs.

If you can’t afford travel insurance, you shouldn’t travel. This is true for everyone, even if you are healthy and fit.

If you don’t have insurance, you might have to pay thousands of dollars up front for medical care.

Before you travel, check your policy, make sure:

  • you know what activities and medical care your insurance covers, including evacuations
  • your insurance covers you for your whole trip, including any stopovers
  • you know any exclusions – for example, you might need to pay extra for activities like motorcycling, snow sports, scuba diving or bungee jumping.

More information:

Physical and mental health

Travelling overseas can be stressful and uncertain. You may experience unfamiliar environments, travel disruptions, changes in normal routines and limited access to health care. 

Not taking your prescribed medications is a common cause of mental ill-health for Australians overseas.

If you are concerned about your welfare, or someone else's, contact your nearest Australian embassy, high commission, or consulate. You can also call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305.

Mental health resources:

More information:

Medications

Not all medications available in Australia are accessible in other countries. Some medicines may be illegal, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Ensure your medication is legal overseas. Take enough for your whole trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

  • medication names
  • your required dosage
  • that the medications are for your personal use.

More information:

Doctors are less likely to prescribe antibiotics and other medications compared to what you may be accustomed to. Cold and flu tablets are not available. 

For specific information on bringing medication into the Netherlands, read the can I take medication into the Netherlands?

Health risks

Health risks in the Netherlands are similar to those in Australia.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information

Medical care

Medical facilities and care standards are similar to that in Australia. Major hospitals are in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague, and most Doctors and medical professionals speak English. Medical costs are high.

Australia has a reciprocal health care agreement with the Netherlands, meaning you can access urgent or emergency treatment in the public hospital system with a valid Medicare card. You can apply for your A111 Certificate of Eligibility when you arrive or before you travel.

The reciprocal health care agreement doesn't:

  • cover treatment in private hospitals or as a private patient in a public hospital
  • cover treatment if you travel to the Netherlands specifically to get medical treatment
  • replace the need for travel insurance.

Local laws

Local law

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

Drugs

The minimum age for buying alcohol and tobacco is 18 years.

You can only buy or use marijuana (cannabis) in designated shops if you're a resident of the Netherlands and 18 years or older.

You could face criminal penalties, including fines and jail, if:

  • you buy or use cannabis outside of designated places
  • you buy or use cannabis in a designated place, but you're not a resident of the Netherlands
  • you possess or sell illegal drugs or narcotics, including psychoactive 'magic mushrooms'.

Taking drugs will weaken your decision-making ability, putting you at greater risk of violence, robbery or sexual assault.

More information:

Other laws

Under Dutch law, everyone over 14 years old must carry an ID. You could show either:

  • a valid passport
  • a driver's licence
  • an identity card or
  • a Dutch residency card
  • Dutch police officers and other authorities can request to see these documents at any time. They may fine you if you can't show your ID.

Australian laws

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws overseas.

More information:

Dual nationality

The Netherlands recognises dual nationals. 

More information:

Travel

Visas and border measures

Each country or territory decides its own entry and exit rules, including health border screening measures. To find out what you need to enter a destination, ask their embassy, consulate or immigration office. 

Visas

The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Area, along with many other European countries, meaning you can enter the Netherlands without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa before you travel.

Always carry your passport when crossing borders, in the Schengen area, even by road or rail.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules. 

From 9 December 2024, the Netherlands will have temporary border checks along its land borders with Belgium and Germany for 18 months.

More information:

Travelling with Children

Border control authorities may be wary of children travelling with only one parent or guardian. Non-travelling parents can complete a 'Permission to Travel' form to make this easier.

More information:

European Entry and Exit Systems

The European Entry/Exit System (EES)

The EES has started registering all non-EU nationals entering and exiting the Schengen area.

When you arrive in a country in the Schengen area for a short stay (90 days or less) using an Australian passport, you'll need to:

  • have your fingerprints and photo taken
  • answer Schengen Border Code questions.

This will create a digital record that registers your biometric details.

If you revisit the Schengen Area within 3 years of creating your digital record, you'll only need to provide your fingerprint and/or photograph at the border on entry and exit.

The EES is free. You don't need to do anything before arriving at the border. Be alert to fraudulent websites that say you need to register or pay a fee before you travel to the EU. Only use official EU systems to provide your data.

If you're a dual national of a European country, check whether the EES applies to you and what passport you should enter on. 

This process may cause extended delays at border crossings.

  • Arrive well before your flight departure time.
  • Allow for delays when planning transits and onward travel.

Schengen Area trip duration rules still apply.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

The ETIAS is separate from EES.

ETIAS is due to be implemented towards the end of 2026. Once implemented, travellers visiting any of the 30 participating European countries visa-free will need to get an ETIAS travel authorisation prior to travel.

Applications are not yet open. Be cautious of fraudulent websites claiming to sell ETIAS authorisations. Apply only through the official EU website once the system is launched. Stay subscribed to Smartraveller to hear updates.

ETIAS and dual citizenship

Dual citizens of participating European countries or Ireland will not be eligible for an ETIAS travel authorisation.

If you're a dual citizen of Australia and an ETIAS country, once the system is implemented you won't be able to enter any participating countries using your Australian passport. You'll have to enter using the passport from your other country of citizenship.

Passport application wait times in some countries can be very long. Apply soon if you:

  • don't have a passport from your other country of citizenship
  • have an expired passport and need to have it renewed.

If you're unsure if you're a citizen of a participating country, contact the country's embassy or consulate in Australia. You may be denied entry to your destination if you travel on your Australian passport without checking your citizenship.

Trip duration limits

Australians can travel to the Schengen area for short trips without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You must ensure your total stay in the Schengen area does not exceed this limit.

The EES makes it easier for local authorities to see if you have overstayed. Immigration penalties and enforcement for exceeding the limit apply, and vary depending on the country you're in.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Before you travel, contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details on entry requirements.

More information:

Passport

Validity

Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months before entering or departing. This includes for transit.

If your passport expires too soon, you might not be able to travel.

The Australian Government doesn’t make these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you go. If you’re not sure, it’s a good idea to get a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is valuable and can be used by others to commit crimes. 

Don’t let anyone trick you into giving it to them. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government: 

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender. If your passport has an 'X' in the sex field, we can’t guarantee your entry or transit to other countries. Ask the embassy or consulate of your destinations if they’ll accept your passport with an 'X' gender marker. Check all transit destinations too.

More information:

Money

The currency of the Netherlands is the Euro.

The Netherlands is a member of the European Union (EU). If you travel between the Netherlands and any non-EU country, you must declare over 10,000 euros (or equivalent) cash. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You'll need to pay a fine if you don't declare or give the wrong information on entry or exit.

You don't need to declare currency if you're travelling to or from another EU country. 

More information:

Local travel

Carry your passport when crossing borders, even within the Schengen Area. Stay informed about border conditions by checking local news and asking transport providers.

Driving permit

For short visits, you'll need both:

  • an International Driving Permit (IDP)
  • a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)

You must be at least 18 years old to drive.

After 185 days, you'll need to apply for a Dutch licence.

Car rental companies may require both documents and digital driver's licences may not be accepted.

Driving without an IDP where one is required can void your travel and vehicle insurance.

You must be at least 21 to hire a car.

More information:

Road travel

Road conditions are similar to those in Australia, but some basic rules differ. Drive on the right-hand side and overtake on the left. This is the 'priority to the right' system.

Give way to traffic and cyclists approaching from the right unless otherwise indicated.

Trams, cyclists and mopeds have the right of way.

Get to know the local road rules before you drive or ride a vehicle.

Pedestrians and bicycles

  • bicycles are common
  • many roads have bicycle pathways, usually coloured red, between the pedestrian footpath and the roadway, as well as bicycle traffic lights
  • don't walk on these pathways. Cyclists travel fast and have the right of way
  • accidents and injuries resulting from collisions between cyclists and pedestrians are common.

Mopeds

  • Mopeds with a maximum speed of 45kph must be driven in the street, not on bicycle pathways or dedicated bike lanes.
  • Both a driver's licence and moped insurance are required.

E-Scooters are illegal.

More information:

Motorcycles

Ensure your travel insurance covers you when riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Only use licenced, official metered taxis. Licenced taxis have a blue number plate.

Unlicenced taxis are a problem in larger cities, particularly in Amsterdam.

Rideshare options are legal and readily available.

Public Transport

The Netherlands has a well-developed rail transport system between cities and a large tram and bus network in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague.

Pickpockets operate on intercity and international trains.

Pay close attention to your passport and other valuables when on trains, especially when taking international services to Belgium and France.

Check Home | NS for timetable, routes, and any service disruptions.

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t give advice about how safe different airlines or flight paths are.

Safety risks and weather events may cause flight delays and cancellations. Contact your travel agent or airline to confirm your plans.

Airlines and airports can restrict what you can take in your luggage. Regulations may be different to those in Australia. Check with your airline before you travel.

Check the Netherlands' air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Local contacts

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider
  • employer
  • airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112.

Police

Call 112.

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

You can get consular help from the Australian Embassy in The Hague.

Australian Embassy, The Hague

Carnegielaan 4
2517 KH The Hague
Netherlands

Phone: +31 70 310 8200
Website: netherlands.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in the Netherlands
X: AusAmbNL
Instagram: AusEmbNL

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia.
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