Starting today, the Dutch Royal Marechaussee have introduced extra control along 800 border crossings in the Netherlands, as ordered by the Dutch government.
Wait what? No, the Netherlands didn’t leave the European Union. Instead, these checks intend to combat human trafficking and illegal migration across the Dutch border, reports the NOS.
How will this affect travellers?
From today onwards, cars, trucks and trains crossing into the Netherlands may be subjected to increased border control.
If you’re worried about passport checks interrupting an intense session of carpool karaoke, don’t fret. Realistically, the Marechaussee don’t have the resources to monitor every crossing, meaning most people will experience little to no disruption.
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However, random checks can happen. If you happen to be one of them, don’t panic! Here’s how it’s going to play out:
- If your car is selected for a check, you will be directed to a specific checkpoint.
- You will be asked to show a form of identification, so a (European) ID, passport, or residence permit.
- There won’t be barriers, so delays should be minimal.
- Once your documents have been checked, you’ll be good to continue driving (assuming you’re not a wanted criminal).
International trains may also be subjected to increased border control. From today onwards, the Marechaussee have the power to search an unlimited number of carriages. So, if you’re travelling by train, ensure you carry proper ID. 🚆
Did you know: As a safety measure, you should always carry a valid passport or identity card when travelling abroad (yes, also in the EU). A Dutch driver’s licence is not an official form of identification abroad. Go to the government website for more information.
Officials question border checks
Many Dutch mayors have expressed concerns about the lack of clarity surrounding the measures, fearing they could cause unnecessary inconvenience for road users.
During Wednesday’s Lower House debate, questions were raised about the impact of these controls on commuter traffic, but the Asylum Minister was unable to provide detailed answers, according to NOS.
A spokesperson for the border municipality of Baarle-Nassau attempted to reassure the public, stating, “the checks will be targeted, so there will be no traffic jams.”
How often do you travel across the Dutch border? Let us know in the comments below.
As a British citizen/ Dutch residence permit holder , I was crossing the Dutch/German border last week with only my passport, caused all sorts of delays because I didn’t have my residence permit with me and by just looking at the passport it looked like I had overstayed the 90 day limit. A gentle reminder to have all documents with you at all times .