Netherlands Explains Travel Ban for Foreign Travelers
Alongside with the rest of the EU countries, the Netherlands has started implementing the EU Commission guidelines on the closure of the external borders of the block, as of Thursday, banning every non-EU travellers from entering its territory, as another measure to curb the coronavirus spread.
Due to this travel ban, many travellers remain confused whether they can enter or leave the Netherlands, and what additional documentation they shall possess to be permitted to cross the borders.
However, the Dutch government has taken care to provide travellers with the necessary information regarding the travel ban and how it affects them.
“The Dutch government has taken the decision to tighten the entry conditions for persons wishing to travel to the Netherlands from third countries from Thursday, March 19, 2020, at 18.00 hours,” an explanation published by NetherlandsandYou.nl explains.
It also clarifies that all foreigners with tourist visas for the Netherlands who attempt to enter the Netherlands will be refused entry based on Article 6 of the Schengen Code paragraph 1(e).
Who Can Still Enter the Netherlands?
However, there is a long list of travellers that are exempt from the travel ban and can still enter the Netherlands. These are:
- EU/EEA citizens and members of their families.
- Third-country nationals holding a residence card or a residence permit in accordance with Directive 2003/109/EC (LTR Directive).
- Third-country nationals who derive their right of residence from other European Directives or from the national law of a Member State.
- Holders of a long-stay visa, including persons with a temporary residence permit (MVV).
Additionally, other persons who are not subject to the travel ban include:
- Personnel working in Health Care.
- Border workers.
- Persons employed in the transportation of goods, where necessary.
- Diplomats and personnel of international and humanitarian organizations.
- Military personnel.
- Persons who have compelling reasons to visit their families.
- Transit passengers who wish to travel via the Netherlands to another third country (via Schiphol only).
- Persons in need of international protection (the border procedure applies in full) and those who are admitted for humanitarian reasons
When Does This Travel Ban End?
Currently, the temporary restriction is sent to expire about April 19. However, if deemed necessary, its expiration will be postponed for later.
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