View the full digital nomad guide for Netherlands
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 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 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.
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.
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.