travel vaccinations netherlands

Where can I get advice on travel vaccinations?

Your municipal health service, regional vaccination service or family doctor can give you advice on travel vaccinations. The baby and toddler clinic or your family doctor can advise you on travel vaccinations for your children. What vaccinations you need depend on where you are going and whether there is an elevated health risk in that area.

Asking the municipal health service for advice on travel vaccinations

One of the tasks of the municipal health services is to prevent and control infectious diseases. So every municipal health service has a vaccination service that can give you specialist advice when you are planning to travel abroad. Contact your municipal health service to make an appointment.

Advice on travel vaccinations for children

If you are planning to travel abroad with your children, ask your baby and toddler clinic, district nurse or family doctor whether your travel plans pose an additional risk to your children's health. They may suggest that your child get certain vaccinations under the national vaccination programme ahead of schedule.

Asking a vaccination service for advice on travel vaccinations

You can also ask a vaccination service in your area for advice on travel vaccinations. Their advice is based on the national guidelines drawn up by the 'Dutch Coordination Centre for Travellers Health Advice' (LCR). The addresses of vaccination services can be found on the LCR website (in Dutch only).

Asking your family doctor for advice on travel vaccinations

Some family doctors also give advice on travel vaccinations, based on the LCR guidelines. The addresses of family doctors offering travel vaccination advice can be found on the LCR website (in Dutch only).

Advice on diseases for which there are no vaccines

Vaccines exist for only a few of the diseases you can get in tropical countries. For instance, there are no vaccines for:

• dengue fever
• Legionnaires' disease
• Lyme disease
• parasitic worm infections
• sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The LCR website gives detailed information about diseases that you can contract abroad and the preventive measures that you can take. Similar information is also available on the website of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).

Take vaccination certificates with you

You should take vaccination certificates with you when you travel to avoid unnecessary revaccination. Some countries - for example in Africa or Latin America - will even refuse to admit you without up-to-date certificates.

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Vaccinations

To visit some countries, you need certain vaccinations. Travel vaccinations are provided by the municipal health service (GGD), vaccination clinic and some family doctors.

Checklist for getting vaccinations

Find out which vaccinations you need.

Vaccinations are compulsory or advisable for many countries in Asia, Africa, Central and South America, the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe.  In these countries you can be exposed to infectious diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid and yellow fever. The GGD’s website tells you which vaccinations are required for which country . This information is in Dutch. However, it is important that you get personal advice. The length of your trip, the conditions under which you will be travelling, your age, health and whether you take any medication are all important factors. Make sure you contact the GGD or vaccination clinic in your municipality; they follow the guidelines for vaccinations drawn up by the National Coordination Centre for Travellers Advice (LCR). This information is in Dutch. An alternative is to contact your doctor. If they have had special training in travel vaccinations, they will be able to provide the vaccinations you need.

Get your vaccinations

Get your vaccinations in time. This can vary from 4 to 6 weeks before going on a short trip to 7 months for longer journeys or emigration. The GGD, vaccination clinic or, in some cases, your family doctor can vaccinate you. If your child needs a vaccination, the baby and toddler clinic or, in some cases, your family doctor will be able to help. Visit the LCR’s website to find out where you can get travel vaccinations in your municipality.  This information is in Dutch.

Take your vaccination booklet with you

Don’t forget to take your vaccination booklet with you on your trip. The booklet is proof that you have had the vaccinations and may be needed when passing through customs. You could be refused permission to enter a country without the booklet. If you fall ill while travelling, you may need the booklet for the hospital. It can prevent misunderstanding, or even unnecessary vaccinations.

Visa applications and vaccinations

For some countries, vaccinations are compulsory. You may have to provide proof that you have had certain vaccinations when you apply for a visa. If you have any questions about this, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you want to visit. Contact details for the closest embassy or consulate (usually in The Hague or Brussels) can be found at Rijksoverheid.nl. This information is in Dutch.

Diseases for which there are no vaccines

For some diseases, especially tropical ones, there are no vaccinations. These include malaria, Ebola, dengue and legionnaires’ disease. The LCR website gives detailed information about these diseases and the preventive measures that you can take. This information is in Dutch.

Further information

Visit the GGD’s website for answers to FAQs on travel and vaccinations

Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Netherlands

Known for its windmills, clogs, and talented artists, the Netherlands remains a tourist staple.

If you’re looking to be on the move, be sure to invest in a bicycle. It is the cheapest and quickest way to get around the Netherlands. The majority of Dutch citizens do not own an automobile.

Amsterdam has incredible architecture, gorgeous canals, and museums like that of Vincent van Gogh. The city is known as “The Venice of the North” due to the canals that traverse the city. It has one of the largest historic centers in Europe, with streets that have remained unchanged since the 1800’s.

The country is also famous for its beautiful, flat countryside. The area is populated with windmills and tulips and other authentically Dutch things. Rent a bike, grab a Dutch phrasebook and plan a trip out into the tulip fields.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for the Netherlands? Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Netherlands Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Netherlands? What Is the Climate Like in the Netherlands? How Safe Is the Netherlands? Art Museums in the Netherlands What Should I Take to the Netherlands? U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands

Do I Need Vaccines for the Netherlands?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for the Netherlands. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Netherlands: hepatitis A , polio , tick-borne encephalitis , rabies , hepatitis B , influenza , COVID-19 , pneumonia , meningitis , chickenpox , shingles , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers.
• Polio – Food & Water – Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination.
• Tick-borne Encephalitis – Ticks – Limited cases since 2016 throughout the country.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Vaccine recommended for certain travelers based on destination, activities and length of stay.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Meningitis – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

Specific Vaccine Information

• Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
• Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis, a viral disease, can be prevented by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and receiving the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine. Vaccination plays a crucial role in defending against this potentially severe illness.
• Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious viral infections, causing various symptoms and complications. To prevent them, vaccination is key. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, safeguards against all three diseases and helps establish herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.

Make sure you are up-to-date on your routine immunizations. Some European countries have had outbreaks of infections like measles and mumps in the past few years. Vaccination will keep you protected if such an outbreak occurs.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Netherlands

Prevent bug bites in the netherlands.

Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.

Food and Water Safety in the Netherlands

Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travelers’ diarrhea , follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Netherlands?

Travelers to the Netherlands only need a valid passport for stays under 90-days. This is true for the majority of Western Europe.

Sources: Embassy of Netherlands and U.S. State Department

If you are visiting more than one European country, be sure to makes sure your passport meets all relevant validity requirements.

What Is the Climate Like in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has many popular tourist destinations, each with its own type of weather. Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht have similar climates with mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in the summer months is around 65 to 70 degrees, and in the winter months, it hovers around 35 to 45 degrees. Rainfall is common throughout the year, but the summer months tend to be the driest.

Maastricht has a different climate from the other cities. It has a moderate continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer months is around 70 to 75 degrees, and in the winter months, it hovers around 30 to 40. Rainfall is common throughout the year, but the summer months tend to be the wettest.

Before you travel, it’s a good idea to check the local weather forecast to make sure you bring the right clothes.

How Safe Is the Netherlands?

If you’re traveling to the Netherlands, it’s important to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you do that:

• Pay attention to where you are and avoid dark or isolated places.
• Keep your valuables safe and use a money belt or other secure storage option.
• Only use licensed taxis with blue license plates and a taxi light on top.
• Be careful when crossing bike paths and streets because bikes are very common in the Netherlands.
• Don’t get involved in drug-related activities.
• Follow COVID-19 guidelines, such as wearing a mask when required.
• Stay informed about the latest news and travel advisories for the Netherlands.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your trip to the Netherlands and stay safe.

Art Museums in the Netherlands

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

Netherlands has produced some of the world’s most famous painters, including Rembrandt and vanGogh. The country saw a period of great prosperity in the late Renaissance. It was during this time that many of the country’s most recognizable works were created. While many of the famous pieces created by Dutch artists hang on walls across the world.

Consider visiting the Museum Quarter in Amsterdam. Here you will be in walking distance of the Rijksmuseum, the vanGogh museum, and the Stedelijk museum. If you have a particular inclination towards drawings, be sure to stop by the Museum Boijmans in Rotterdam. At this museum, you can see early drawings from some of the most recognizable names in art.

What Should I Take to the Netherlands?

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to the Netherlands:

• Good Walking Shoes – You will most likely be doing quite a bit of walking or biking. These are the most popular modes of transportation in the Netherlands.
• Rain jacket – It can get pretty wet in the Netherlands. Be sure to pack a rain jacket or windbreaker, especially if visiting in fall months.
• Backpack – An essential item, especially if you are considering hiking.
• Heavy Jacket – If traveling during winter months.
• Sunscreen and Hat – If traveling during summer months.

U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands

The U.S. embassy in the Netherlands offers help to Americans who are traveling there. They can help with things like getting a new passport, helping if there is an emergency, and giving information on how to travel and live in the Netherlands.

If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in Netherlands, there is a U.S. embassy at The Hague.

U.S. Embassy The Hague John Adams Park 1 2244 BZ Wassenaar Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 (0) 70 310 2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 70 310 2207

Overall, the U.S. embassy is a good resource for Americans who are traveling to the Netherlands.

If you have any questions about traveling to the Netherlands or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.

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Passport health – travel vaccines for the netherlands.

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Travelling and vaccinations

Make an appointment for your travel vaccinations and visit GGD Reisvaccinaties for personalised advice. The vaccinations you need are given straight away.  You pay a charge for the consultation and the vaccines you receive

See us well in advance of departure

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Other certified providers of travel vaccinations

Landelijk Coördinatiecentrum Reizigersadvisering

New yellow booklet

For a new yellow booklet you are welcome Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 12:00 AM at the Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 3rd floor.

Bring with you to the appointment:

What to expect during the appointment:, advice only intended for you.

The vaccination advice or malaria prescription you receive is only intended for you, and is given during a personal consultation in the consultation room. We do not give advice by phone or e-mail. However, general advice on your travel destination is available at ggdreisvaccinaties.nl

Cancelling your appointment

If you need to cancel an appointment, please do so at least 24 hours in advance using the link in your confirmation e-mail. Or phone 020 555 5090 between 08.30 and 12.00 and 13.00 and 15.00h. If you do not cancel on time, you will have to pay for the consultation.

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COVID desk: Information for visitors to The Netherlands

Holidaying in the Netherlands is possible in most cases, although there are some COVID-19-related rules and recommendations you'll have to observe during your stay. The European travel ban on travelers from high and very high risk regions is still in force, as well. Always check the current measures applicable for your situation prior to traveling and follow the instructions of the Dutch authorities.

• Before you travel, always check this checklist for current travel bans and the rules regarding tests and quarantine in the Netherlands.
• You can find up to date information and travel advisories at Government.nl .
• Find the answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19 at the bottom of this page.

The basic rules

While you can do many things in the Netherlands once again, COVID-19 has not disappeared so you must comply with the following basic rules when staying in the Netherlands:

• Wash your hands often.
• Maintain a distance of at least 1.5 meters from other people and avoid crowds.
• Stay at home if you have symptoms that may be caused by a COVID-19 infection and take a test.
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow. Use paper handkerchiefs and throw these away.
• In most places, you no longer have to wear a face mask. However, it is still mandatory in places where social distancing (1.5 m) is impossible, and any person aged 13 and over must wear a face mask. Examples are passenger transportation, public transportation, railway and metro stations, airports, and in aircraft.

Entering the Netherlands and holidays

Travelers to the Netherlands should check their local authorities' travel advisory for the Netherlands. Also make sure to check whether your country of origin is on the Dutch list of safe countries. For an up-to-date overview of the measures that are in place for your trip, check out the detailed requirements here .

For more information about the various travel documents, COVID-19 test options, and quarantine guidelines, visit the Dutch government's website .

Accommodations, cafés and restaurants, and shops

The Netherlands has largely opened up so you can book your stay at all available accommodations for your holiday, such as hotels, campgrounds and holiday parks. Before traveling to an accommodation, don't forget to ask the owner about applicable rules. Shops in the Netherlands are open once again, too (subject to compliance with the applicable rules) and will be happy to receive you.

Cafés and restaurants:

• Restaurants and cafés are closed between midnight and 6 AM. Nightclubs and discos will remain closed altogether.
• COVID-19 tickets are not valid in restaurants and cafés.
• If you visit a restaurant or café, you must always have a fixed seat and comply with social distancing rules (1.5 m distance from others).
• All shops are open during regular opening hours.
• Shops must observe a maximum capacity of one visitor per 5 m2. However, if a shop uses the CoronaCheck app or an individual COVID access pass, the maximum capacity does not apply.

Accommodations:

• Campgrounds and holiday parks are open. However, COVID-19 measures apply here, too. Always ask your accommodation about the applicable rules.
• Hotels are open during regular opening hours, including any restaurant, catering, spa and en room service- facilities. Make sure to inquire about any rules applying for the accommodation in question.
• Always ask about the terms and conditions relating to cancellation before booking. These may vary significantly between providers.

Events and recreational facilities:

• Cinemas and other recreational and cultural facilities are open during regular opening hours, as are outdoor facilities like theme parks and zoos. Here, too, social distancing is in force and a 1.5 m distance must be maintained between visitors.
• Outdoor recreational spaces, such as beaches and city parks, are also open subject to the 1.5 m social distancing rules.
• Some events, such as concerts, dance parties and festivals, are accessible with a COVID-19 access pass. In this case, the 1.5 m social distancing rule does not apply.

CoronaCheck app as a ticket

To gain access to some events, locations and activities, the organiser may ask for a COVID access pass, such as a negative test result, proof of vaccination or recovery. You can also load these documents in the CoronaCheck- app and use it as a COVID access pass. The app is available for iOS and Android devices.

Handy links to the official travel advice

If you are travelling to the Netherlands from Belgium , Germany , France , the United Kingdom , the United States or China , please check these respective links to the official travel advice issued by your national foreign office.

FAQ - Current COVID-19 situation in the Netherlands

The current status of COVID infections, vaccinations and hospital admissions in the Netherlands at a glance.

Keep following the basic rules to control the spread of coronavirus. Continue to wash your hands and keep your 1.5 metres distance. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, stay at home or at your accommodation and get tested as soon as possible. This will help prevent the virus from spreading.

The travel rules and COVID measures apply to all persons aged 13 and over.

FAQ - COVID-19 and travelling to the Netherlands

The rules for entering the Netherlands depend on whether you are travelling from inside or outside the European Union (EU). Please read the handy travel checklist to see which rules apply to you.

You can use the (European) Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) to enter the Netherlands. You need a QR-code to proof that you have been vaccinated against COVID-19, have tested negative or have already been infected and are therefore protected. For more information about the DCC please visit this website.

If you are travelling to the Netherlands from another EU country you will no longer need to show proof of vaccination, a Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) based on proof of recovery or a negative test result. If you are travelling by air, complete a health declaration form. Do a self-test after arriving in The Netherlands and on day 5 of your stay. Use the travel advice tool on Reizentijdenscorona.nl to get specific advice for your trip. This tool also works if you are travelling through several countries.

You must be able to show a negative COVID-19 test result. This applies to everyone aged 12 or over. The urgent advice to self-quarantine on arrival for people travelling from a high-risk area no longer applies to people travelling within the EU who can show a negative test result, proof of vaccination or proof of recovery. This includes the Digital COVID Certificate.

An EU entry ban is in effect for people from countries outside the European Union/Schengen area. This includes the United Kingdom. There are exemptions to the entry ban, for example for some countries that are considered safe. Countries from outside the EU/Schengen are classified into two categories: 1. Safe countries and 2. Countries that are not on the ‘safe country list’. Please always check which category your country belongs to. Travellers from outside the EU/Schengen area do no longer have to carry a negative test result, if one of the following applies: Their country of origin is on the EU’s list of safe countries, they hold a valid vaccination certificate or recovery certificate.

Travelers from very high-risk areas must always go into quarantine for 10 days. The quarantine period may be shortened by getting tested on day 5. These rules also apply to travelers with a vaccination certificate or recovery certificate. Self-quarantine is mandatory if you travel/return to the Netherlands after staying in countries or regions deemed very high risk. This requirement also applies even if you have been vaccinated. You must be able to show a completed, printed and signed quarantine declaration. You may be fined if you do not have a quarantine declaration or if you do not comply with the mandatory quarantine requirement. Use the quarantine check for travellers to find out which rules apply to you. From 25 February the travel advisories for many countries and the general quarantine rules will change.

You may travel through or transfer in a different country on your way to the Netherlands. If you spent 12 hours or more there you may have to quarantine. This depends on the country.

You may be exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement depending on the purpose of your trip. Check the details and exemption categories.

Self-quarantine means that you stay at home and do not receive visitors. You should do this if there is a risk that you may have been infected by COVID. By staying at your holiday accommodation you prevent the virus from spreading further.

No, you can go to a PCR or rapid antigen test provider of your own choice for appointments. You must pay for these tests.

You can go to a PCR or rapid antigen test provider of your own choice for appointments. You must pay for these tests.

Please follow the link and enter your country in the search box to retrieve the contact details.

FAQ - Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) in the Netherlands

If you are visiting the Netherlands and would like to attend an indoor event without fixed seating and more than 500 visitors, you can use your DCC for this purpose if your negative test result is not older than 24 hours.

If you have a DCC based on a negative test result, you must have been tested no more than 24 hours before the start of the event.

If you travelled to the Netherlands without a DCC and you want to attend an indoor event without fixed seating and more than 500 spectators in the Netherlands for which a coronavirus entry pass is required, get tested before the event. You can attend the event with a negative result from a test that was done no more than 24 hours earlier.

FAQ - Other questions

You booked or are going to book a package holiday or linked travel package in 2021. The following applies to you: - In 2021, you will no longer receive vouchers from the travel organisations. - This means that the tour operator must refund the travel costs within 14 days of cancellation, if the package holiday is cancelled due to corona measures. - This happens automatically, you do not have to do anything. For more information, please visit the website below.

To contact the 24/7 BZ Contact Centre directly, dial +31 247 247 247.