IBC2021 Show Entry Requirements FAQs

What do I need to know if I want to travel to the Netherlands?

The rules for entering the Netherlands depend on whether you are travelling from inside or outside the European Union (EU) and which risk level is assigned to your country of departure. Please see this handy travel checklist to see which rules apply to you.

I need a pre-departure COVID test before travelling to the Netherlands – where can I get one?

In some cases, you may need a negative pre-departure COVID test result before traveling to the Netherlands. You will need to pay any costs associated with getting a COVID test yourself. You can find information about locations abroad where you can get these tests done. Please note that the information on this page may not be complete and is subject to change. Please also see the Dutch Government website for information on the exemptions.

I am travelling to the Netherlands within the EU/Schengen area. Which travel rules and COVID measures apply?

If you are travelling to the Netherlands from another EU country that is deemed safe, no travel rules apply when you enter the Netherlands. In the Netherlands, you must comply with the Dutch COVID measures. Please see the travel checklist for entry from the EU to see what rules apply to you.

I am travelling to the Netherlands from a country outside the EU/Schengen area. Which travel rules and COVID measures apply?

If you are travelling to the Netherlands from a country outside of the EU, please be aware of the EU entry ban that applies to those countries. You may enter the Netherlands if the purpose of your trip falls under one of the exemption categories.

If you are fully vaccinated and the country of your departure is not deemed very high risk, you can enter the Netherlands. Please see the travel checklist for entry from the outside the EU to see what rules apply to you.

What are the quarantine rules in the Netherlands?

From 22 September onwards, you do not need to quarantine if you are fully vaccinated.

If you are not fully vaccinated, you may be exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement depending on the purpose of your trip. Check the details and exemption categories.

Can I use The European Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) to travel to the Netherlands?

Since 1 July 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.

Can I use The European Digital COVID Certificate (DCC) to enter IBC2021 at the RAI Amsterdam?

EU attendees can show their proof of full vaccination, a negative test or proof of recovery by using the The EU Digital COVID Certificate via the CoronaCheck app.

NON-EU attendees can show a paper copy of their proof of full vaccination, a negative test or proof of recovery.

How long is a negative COVID test result valid for?

You must have been tested no more than 24 hours before your entry to IBC2021. The test result is valid for 24 hours. Please ensure you obtain a new test result if you plan to visit IBC2021 the next day. The same rules apply for entry to Amsterdam cafés, bars, restaurants (excluding takeaways) and nightclubs.

Can I have a free COVID-19 ‘Test for Travel’ done before I leave the Netherlands?

As of October 1, you can no longer get a ‘test for travel’ for free. Those who require a test for travel, due to regulations of their return country, can book an appointment for ‘test for travel’ PCR or rapid antigen with a commercial test provider. Read more about  using a negative test result to generate COVID Certificate for travel. Result of PCR test can take up to 24 hours, so please ensure you arrange the test in time before travelling.

Where can I find commercial testing centres for pre-travel tests?

Below is a selection of commercial testing facilities:

Do I need to pay for ‘Test for Access’ (testing for entry) in Amsterdam?

The cost of ‘Testing for Access’ is currently covered by the Dutch Government. With this, there is no cost to you as a visitor. You can get a free ‘Test for Access’ by booking an appointment at one of Amsterdam test centres.

What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms?

If you are already in the Netherlands and have COVID-19 symptoms, please do not attend IBC2021. You can get tested at the GGD (Dutch Regional Public Health Services). You can make an appointment by calling 0800 1202 (7 days a week from 8am to 8pm CET). If calling from a foreign mobile number, please call +31 (0)85 065 9063.

Do not leave your home / hotel except to go to your test appointment.
You will usually be able to get a test done at one of the testing stations in Amsterdam within 48 hours.
You will get the results of your COVID-19 test as soon as possible, usually within 24 to 48 hours after testing. You can receive the test results by phone or online.
Stay in your home/ hotel and keep a distance from others until you receive your test results.

For further information and guidance on getting tested in you have COVID-19 symptoms and COVID-19 test results please refer to the Dutch government website.

Where can I find the contact details of my home country’s embassy/consulate in the Netherlands?

You can find these on the Embassies, consulates and other representations section of the Dutch government website. Please enter your country in the search box to retrieve the contact details.

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