The Dutch government has eased restrictions previously placed on Southern African countries due to the COVID-19 Omicron variant, making it easier for tourists from South Africa to visit. It is now possible for fully vaccinated travellers from South Africa to enter The Netherlands with no quarantine restrictions.

KLM confirmed that, with immediate effect South Africa is classified as a ‘high-risk country or area’. This is an improvement from the previous classification of ‘high-risk country or area where there is not a virus variant of concern’.

The new entry regulations are listed below:

• Vaccinated travellers are now able to enter The Netherlands with proof of vaccination, subject to visa requirements. Passengers must hold a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before departure, or a negative Antigen test taken no more than 24 hours before departure.
• The EU entry ban still applies for unvaccinated travellers, who may only enter the Netherlands if they fall under one of the exemption categories, subject to visa requirements. Passengers must hold a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before departure, or a negative Antigen test taken no more than 24 hours before departure. Unvaccinated travellers must also self-quarantine for 10 days on arrival. If a negative test result can be provided on day five, the quarantine may end.
• All passengers must complete a ‘Health Declaration; form which can be found here.
• Unvaccinated travellers must also complete the ‘Quarantine declaration’ form, which can be found here.

There are no specific requirements for passengers transiting via Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The entry and exit regulations of the country of final destination must be adhered to. These can be checked at https://klm.traveldoc.aero.