Weekly update on June 13, 2026: Netherlands Tightens Visas & Amsterdam Taxes Rise Amid New EU Border Checks
PublishedBy Laura Ferreira · Editorial policy
The Netherlands is backing stricter Schengen visa rules and preparing for the new EU Entry/Exit System, which may cause border delays. Meanwhile, Amsterdam plans tourist tax hikes to combat overtourism.
Key takeaways
- The Netherlands joins other EU nations in pushing for stricter Schengen visa rules for Russian tourists.
- Amsterdam will implement a tourist tax hike and close its cruise terminal by 2030 to curb overtourism.
- The upcoming EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is expected to cause significant border delays for non-EU travelers.
- Prospective residents should plan ahead for potential logistical challenges when visiting to secure housing or residency.
Netherlands Backs Stricter Schengen Visa Rules
The Netherlands has joined several other European nations, including Denmark, Sweden, Poland, and the Czech Republic, in advocating for tighter Schengen visa regulations. This push specifically targets tourist visas for Russian nationals amid ongoing security concerns related to the war in Ukraine.
For prospective immigrants and investors who rely on tourist visas to visit the Netherlands for property viewings or residency applications, these tightening measures highlight a shifting landscape across the Schengen zone. Securing short-term entry may require more extensive documentation and longer processing times as border policies become more stringent.
Amsterdam to Raise Tourist Taxes and Close Cruise Terminal
In a bid to manage overtourism, Amsterdam has announced plans to increase its tourist tax and permanently close its central cruise terminal by 2030. These measures are designed to reduce the sheer volume of short-term visitors and alleviate pressure on the city's infrastructure.
While these changes primarily target tourists, they signal a broader local shift toward prioritizing long-term residents and skilled professionals over transient visitors. Expats planning to relocate to Amsterdam should factor these rising short-term accommodation costs into their initial relocation budgets.
New EU Border Checks Spark Delay Concerns
The rollout of Europe's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is raising concerns about massive delays at major airports. The biometric system will require non-EU travelers—including those from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia—to register their fingerprints and facial scans upon crossing the Schengen border.
Residency applicants and current permit holders should prepare for longer wait times at passport control. The new system will automatically track entry and exit dates, which is a critical factor for expats who need to monitor their physical presence requirements for future naturalisation applications.
Planning Your Path to Dutch Citizenship
As short-term travel becomes more heavily regulated and taxed, securing official residency or citizenship offers a more stable long-term solution. For those planning to settle permanently in the Netherlands, passing the civic integration exams (Inburgeringsexamen) is a mandatory step for naturalisation.
With border logistics becoming more complex, applicants are encouraged to focus on their integration requirements early. Using resources like Prep2Go can help candidates effectively prepare for the Dutch language exams, ensuring a smoother transition to permanent residency or citizenship without the stress of last-minute studying.
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