The Netherlands may see an influx of Americans in the coming months. President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has said that American tourists who have been fully vaccinated against the coronavirus will be free to travel throughout Europe this summer.
Americans who have been vaccinated will able to visit the Netherlands for more than just essential travel, the border will also open up for tourists. While the president of the EU commission is certain of this, she didn’t indicate exactly American tourists can enter the EU, telling the New York Times only “this summer.”
Why is this allowed?
The first reason for why this will be allowed, comes down to the vaccines being used by the US. Von der Leyen told The New York Times that “as far as I can judge, Americans only use vaccines that are approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Therefore, all Member States of the European Union will admit travelers who have been vaccinated.”
The success of the US vaccination strategy is another factor. Von der Leyen explains that at the rate the US is vaccinating, the country can expect group immunity by mid-June.
Vaccination certificates to be decided
However, before the country can open its doors to Americans, a decision must first be made about vaccination certificates. The EU Commission must reach a decision on what these certificates should look like/what is necessary for freedom of travel. This is currently still under discussion.
What are your thoughts on this? Do you think the Netherlands is ready for the return of American tourists? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
Feature Image: Skitterphoto/Pexels
We’re trying to move to the Netherlands from the US to start a business, so I’m all for this. But I hope our state isn’t one of the ones that refuses to issue vaccine certificates. I would, however, not be surprised if it is.
The only question I have is if the tourists are able to go to Netherlands will all amenities and attractions be open. Meaning museums, parks and mass transit. Meaning I guess, would things be back to pre- Covid?
Am also looking forward to Floriade next year, maybe just hold on to my ticket for one more year?
Does this replace need for PCR test within 72hrs of ENTRY?
That seems to be the onerous requirement for travelers on long trips to NL
When will more details be provided? Fully vaxxed and supposed to arrive in Amsterdam July 9. Need to re-route soon if they aren’t opening up.
My boyfriend and American has been stuck in Amsterdam for a year and has not been able to get back home. Does anyone know when Americans will be allowed to leave the Netherland to come back home to the US?
If he’s American, he’s always been able to fly back to the US. The entry ban in the US does not apply to US citizens.
Indeed, I’m also an American citizen living in Amsterdam and I’ve been back twice now… the US doesn’t prevent their own citizens from entering.