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Netherlands
Amsterdam
Portugal uses Eurodac and ESP to track non-EU travelers at Schengen borders
The EU has activated the first phase of the new Eurodac system and the European Search Portal to modernize border data infrastructure. These interoperable IT systems allow authorities to instantly verify biometric data and track entry/exit history for all non-EU travelers across the Schengen Area.
The small print in the limited validity ETIAS for humanitarian emergencies
The European Union has introduced a restricted ETIAS version for travelers with humanitarian needs or urgent obligations. This authorization is valid for a maximum of 90 days and only permits entry into the specific countries listed on the application.
Netherlands gives 6 month job search window to 2 year permit holders
Under EU Directive 2024/1233, the Netherlands has extended the period foreign workers can remain in the country to find a new job after unemployment. The update also introduces longer decision windows for certain residence and work permit applications.
Amsterdam tourist tax in Netherlands will reach 20% by 2030
Amsterdam has unveiled a multi-year plan to increase its overnight tourist tax from the current 12.5% to 16% in 2027, eventually reaching 20% by 2030. This increase will significantly raise the cost of short-term stays for digital nomads and slow travelers using hotels or short-term rentals in the city.
Netherlands joins 11 nations to tighten Russian Schengen tourist visa limits
The Dutch government has joined a coalition of EU member states calling for stricter curbs on Russian travel. This policy shift may lead to increased border scrutiny and changes to Schengen visa processing for Russian nationals and those traveling from the region.
EU confirms ETIAS will start in the last quarter for 60 nations
The European Union confirmed that the ETIAS pre-travel authorization system for visa-free nationals is now scheduled to go live in late 2026. Travelers from over 60 countries will eventually need this digital permit to enter the Schengen Area for short stays.
EU extends detention to 30 months for irregular stays in Portugal
The EU approved a new Return Regulation allowing for deportation centers outside the bloc and tougher entry bans for those without legal status. While targeting irregular migration, the law expands police powers to verify residency documents for all foreign residents across the Schengen Area.
EU Single Digital Booking regulation grants tourists 50% refund for rail delays
On 2026-05-13, the European Commission proposed EU-wide rules to make cross-border rail travel easier, including single-ticket booking across multiple operators and stronger protection for missed connections. This matters for travelers and nomads using rail networks across Europe because it would reduce fragmentation and improve refunds, rerouting, and compensation.
EU Pact on Migration and Asylum starts applying 10 laws on June 12
The European Commission said the Pact on Migration and Asylum is on track for full application on 2026-06-12, with key border screening and procedure systems now largely in place. Travelers, expats, and digital nomads entering or moving within the EU should expect further operational changes at external borders as member states finish implementation.
EU gives travelers 14 days for cash refunds under revised directive
The updated EU Package Travel Directive took effect on 2026-05-27, strengthening refund, voucher, and insolvency-protection rules for package travellers across the EU. Nomads and expats who book package trips in Europe should note clearer complaint deadlines and better protections if an organiser becomes insolvent.
Netherlands allows family of highly skilled migrants to stay abroad 8 months
Accompanying family members of highly skilled migrants can now remain outside the Netherlands for up to 8 months if the main permit holder is abroad for work. Additionally, the MVV entry visa process has been simplified for new residence permit applicants.
Expect delays in the Netherlands until Sept. 30 under new border rules
The Dutch government has extended temporary internal border controls at all Schengen land and sea crossings to enhance security. Travelers entering the Netherlands from neighboring EU countries should carry valid passports and residence permits to avoid delays or entry denials.
Explaining the Transition Document for Ukrainians in the Netherlands
The Dutch government will phase out the Temporary Protection Directive in March 2027, replacing it with an automatic three-year transition residence permit. This new permit ensures that eligible Ukrainian residents and their employers maintain work rights and legal residency through 2030.
EES now replaces passport stamps at Schengen borders
The EU's new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) will automate border controls across 29 Schengen countries, digitizing stay tracking and replacing physical passport stamps for non-EU travelers.
Inside the Netherlands's 30% Tax Ruling for Expats
The Dutch government will keep the expat tax discount at 30% for 2026, with new minimum salary requirements of €48,013 for general applicants. Starting in 2027, the benefit will decrease to 27% and feature higher income thresholds for eligibility.
Understanding Netherlands's Updated Highly Skilled Migrant Requirements
The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) has confirmed the latest salary thresholds and sponsor requirements for the highly skilled migrant permit. Expats must ensure their employers are recognized sponsors and meet the updated 2026 income criteria to maintain or obtain residency.
Understanding the Updated Costs for Dutch Work Permits
Starting January 1, 2026, application fees for Highly Skilled Migrant permits and EU Blue Cards will rise to €423 due to annual wage indexation. This increase applies to first-time applications, extensions, and changes of purpose for foreign professionals in the Netherlands.
Preparing for Netherlands Travel and Residency Changes
The Netherlands will implement the ETIAS travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers starting in late 2026. Additionally, the gross monthly salary requirement for highly skilled migrant workers under age 30 will rise to €4,357.
Staying Ahead of Recent Policy Shifts in the Netherlands
Starting January 2026, the Netherlands will implement new minimum salary requirements for the Highly Skilled Migrant visa, set at €5,942 for those over 30 and €4,357 for those under 30. The update also includes a higher VAT on overnight stays and new permit requirements for second homes in Amsterdam.
How the Netherlands Expat Tax Ruling Works
The Dutch government is moving forward with plans to scale back the 30% tax-free allowance for high-skilled migrants. This change will reduce the net income of eligible foreign workers and impact long-term financial planning for expats in the Netherlands.