The Netherlands Further Restricts Travel for Americans -- Only Vaccinated Welcome With Quarantine and Testing Rules

If you're planning to visit the Netherlands, make sure you're aware of the newly updated entry restrictions for Americans.

Throughout the United States, positive COVID-19 numbers have continued to climb due to the continued spread of the Delta variant. That recently led the EU to remove the United States from its safe travel list. This list serves as guidance to EU countries to plan nonessential travel entry rules. And now, the Netherlands has put additional barriers in place that make it more difficult for Americans to visit.

At this time, only vaccinated U.S. travelers are welcome, and they must complete pre-departure COVID testing and quarantine upon arrival. Find out more about these travel restrictions to see how these changes may impact your trip.

Here's what you need to know before traveling to the Netherlands

The Netherlands recently updated its entry restrictions for travelers from countries outside of the EU. It placed the United States in the very high-risk category, resulting in heightened entry restrictions. As of Sept. 4, unvaccinated Americans are banned from visiting.

Vaccinated Americans are welcome, but they must show a negative pre-departure test result. The negative test result can be from a NAAT (PCR) test taken no more than 48 hours before departure or a negative antigen test taken no more than 24 hours before departure. Testing is a requirement for travelers ages 12 and older. Proof of recent COVID-19 recovery is no longer accepted.

Vaccinated Americans will also need to self-quarantine upon arrival for a mandatory period of 10 days. But travelers can shorten the time frame if they test negative on day five. There are some exemptions from the mandatory quarantine requirement, but most travelers should expect to quarantine.

If you have upcoming plans to visit the Netherlands, you may want to reconsider and visit at a later date. Otherwise, you'll need to make sure that you're able to meet the testing and quarantine rules.

Remain flexible and prepare for added travel costs

As the pandemic continues, travel rules are ever-changing. Entry requirements may change before or during your trip. Be sure to regularly check the news to stay updated on the current rules and restrictions. Additionally, it's best to remain flexible and be prepared for the possibility of last-minute changes. Travel looks different during a pandemic.

You should also be aware that pandemic travel may come with extra costs. This can include spending money on COVID-19 testing or a quarantine stay. As you set your vacation budget, it's wise to include additional money for unexpected travel costs that may arise. It's always best to be overprepared.

We recommend booking your trip with a travel rewards credit card. Travel cards often include added travel perks and protection, such as travel insurance. This kind of coverage could be helpful if you need to change your plans or cancel your trip altogether. Plus, you can earn points on your spending. If you want to apply for a new credit card, take a look at this list of top travel credit cards.