ETIAS Visa Waiver for The Netherlands

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System or ETIAS is a new visa waiver program that is meant to strengthen the borders of the Schengen zone. It comes into effect at some point in 2025.

This means many of the non-EU citizens that are currently allowed to visit Europe visa-free will need an ETIAS visa waiver for the Netherlands and the rest of the Schengen countries.

Is a visa for the Netherlands being introduced?

The ETIAS is different from a standard travel visa. It screens all applicants prior to their visit to the Netherlands, and those who are approved are free to move throughout the Schengen zone for up to 90 days.

However, from 2025 there is an added security measure. It is important to know that this is the same for all EU countries found within the Schengen Area.

The Netherlands, the EU, and the Schengen Area

Located in Northwestern Europe, The Netherlands is a flat land that is made up of canals and tulip fields. Other popular symbols of the Netherlands include bicycles and windmills. The official language is Dutch, though many people speak English. The currency is the euro. Amsterdam is the capital city and is a popular destination for tourists.

The Netherlands is one of the original countries that first joined the EU in 1958. Almost 40 years late it joined the Schengen Area in 1995. The Schengen Area is made up of numerous countries in Europe. The purpose of this area is to function as one jurisdiction for international travel.

Once the area is entered, a visitor can travel around without hard borders or additional passport controls. As a part of the Schengen zone, tourists who have a Dutch ETIAS can travel around the Netherlands and to any of the other Schengen countries.

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Who has to get the ETIAS Netherlands?

There are over 60 countries whose citizens must apply for an ETIAS visa waiver if they wish to travel throughout Europe. Many of these countries currently do not require a visa or waiver to enter the EU.

However, after the system is implemented, citizens of non-EU countries will have to apply for ETIAS Netherlands before traveling to the Netherlands or any other Schengen country.

Once applicants are deemed non-threatening, they are able to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days. The ETIAS allows people to visit all Schengen countries found within for tourist, business, medical, and transit purposes.

Passport and requirements for a Netherlands ETIAS

To apply for a Netherlands ETIAS you must have these 3 main requirements:

  • a valid passport
  • an email address
  • a debit or credit card

With these basic requirements, you can begin the application process. Note that you will need to enter information about:

  • Education and work experience
  • Previous travels
  • Answer a few security related questions

Children should also have a valid ETIAS upon arrival in the Netherlands. Parents or guardians can complete the application form on their behalf.

How can I apply for a Netherlands ETIAS?

The ETIAS application is a simple process which travellers can access from a computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Once the ETIAS requirements for the Netherlands are met, you can begin the application.

This takes approximately 10 minutes and is done completely online. Expect to answer the following to complete the application:

  • First and last names
  • Last name at birth
  • Date of birth
  • Place of birth
  • Gender
  • Citizenship
  • Current address
  • Email address and phone number
  • The name of the first EU country that will be visited
  • A credit or debit card for the application fee

Travel information about the Netherlands

The Netherlands is rich in culture and history. Visitors enjoy the vast tulip fields and cycle trails. Windmill-dotted countryside and canals also make up most of the country.

Its capital city, Amsterdam, offers a wide variety of things to do. Tourists can take in the architecture from a boat on the canal. Or, if one is keen to learn about history, the Anne Frank House is a possible option.

Artists can choose from the Van Gough Museum, Banksy exhibit or the works of Rembrandt found in the palaces along the canal. Partiers will find no shortage of bars and clubs available. While those wanting to relax can stroll through one of the green parks or sip coffee at an outdoor café.