You must go through passport control in Amsterdam Schiphol if you are arriving from or departing to a non-Schengen country (e.g., UK, USA). No passport control is required if you are flying between two Schengen countries. If connecting to a non-Schengen flight, you will pass through passport control at Schiphol.
You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes the Netherlands, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel: as a tourist. to visit family or friends.
How long does it take to clear Passport Control at Amsterdam airport?
I'll provide my experience as a heavy traveller who lives in Amsterdam. Immigration is the biggest wildcard, February will be a bit calmer than summer was, but I would expect at that time of day 30-45mins to clear it. Checking back in/re-checking your bag time varies massively depending on which carrier it is.
Do you go through Passport Control when flying between Schengen countries?
The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries. There is normally no passport control on the borders between these countries. If you have a valid visa or residence permit in one of these countries, you can also visit the other Schengen countries.
European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
ETIAS will apply to British and other non-EU/non Schengen country citizens travelling to all EU Member States , with the exception of Ireland. It will also apply for travel to the four non-EU Schengen countries.
3: Each liquid container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. 1: All containers must fit inside one clear, quart-sized bag (approx. 20cm x 20cm in Europe). 1: Each passenger is allowed only one small bag.
As of 12 October 2025 all Schengen countries will be using the new digital entry/exit system (EES). This system will be introduced in phases and will ultimately largely replace passport stamps.
Only bring liquids and gels in acontainers of no more than 100ml.. Place all liquids and gels in a transparent and resealable 1 litre bag. You can keep this bag in your hand baggage at the security check. You also no longer need to take laptops, tablets or other electronic devices out of your hand baggage.
What documents do I need to travel from the UK to Amsterdam?
British citizens don't need a visa to enter the Netherlands but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport's valid for the Netherlands using our handy tool. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/netherlands/entry-requirements.
The Dutch government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media. The current threat level for the Netherlands is level 4 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5.
If you are the holder of a British passport, you do not need a visa to visit the Netherlands. If you have a different nationality and are unsure what the visa requirements are, check whether you need a visa to visit the Netherlands.
Is the Amsterdam airport fast track for passports?
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Fast Track allows passengers to use a priority lane at security screening and Passport Control, helping you save time by avoiding long queues. Fast Track is available at many international airports.
When you first land, you'll collect your luggage (if Amsterdam is your final destination) and head through customs — usually a quick walk-through for most travellers. Then you'll find yourself in the main Arrivals Hall — the heart of Schiphol's landside area. Look for the signs that say "Meeting Point."
The "3 x" (XXX) in Amsterdam refers to three St. Andrew's Crosses on the city's coat of arms and flag, symbolizing its history as a fishing town and its connection to the patron saint of fishermen, with theories suggesting they represent valor, firmness, and mercy, or protection against fire, flood, and plague, though the most likely origin is linked to the noble Persijn family who owned land there, with the crosses also appearing on flags of nearby towns they owned.
Absolutely! Amsterdam is one of Europe's most walkable cities. You can expect flat streets and short distances with lots of spots to rest along the way.
The 30% ruling means that 30% of the gross salary can be paid out tax-free as a non-taxable allowance. This is intended to cover the additional costs an international employee incurs when working and living in the Netherlands. The most common way this scheme is applied is by reducing the employee's gross salary by 30%.
In response to a public initiative titled 'Amsterdam has a choice', in June 2021 the City Council approved a new policy on tourism, 'Tourism in balance in Amsterdam'. The plan sets a maximum number of overnight stays and day visits by tourist, with a maximum of 20 million visitors per year.
Do pills have to be in original bottles when flying?
Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Ensure that they are clearly labeled with your full name, health care provider's name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage. Bring copies of all written prescriptions, including the generic names for medicines.
Does deodorant count as liquid? Spray, gel, and liquid deodorants count as liquids. If you're packing them in your carry-on, they must be packed in a clear quart-sized bag and be 3.4 ounces or less.
