The Netherlands Business Travel Guide contains useful tools and resources for business travellers to assist them on their trips. The guide contains important information such as visa information, facts on the Netherlands, business customs, culture, tips, and more. An appreciation and good grasp of other cultures, languages, customs and protocols can be a great advantage for business travellers helping to foster a climate of better understanding, avoid cultural misunderstandings and helping to create a successful business trip.
Netherlands Guide
Netherlands Quick Facts
Netherlands Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
Business Customs and Etiquette
Travel Advice and Tips
Public Holidays
Netherlands Map
Netherlands Weather
Currency Converter & Travel Money Exchange
Netherlands Hotels & Flights
Travel Insurance
Netherlands Travel Videos
Netherlands Quick Facts
Country: Netherlands
Capital: Amsterdam
Currency: Euro
Population: 16.3 Million
Area total: 41,864 sq km
Languages: Dutch, Frisian
Time Zone: GMT +1
Daylight Saving Details: Starts in late March until late October
Electricity: 220-240V 50Hz
GDP: USD 783bn (2010)
Dialling Code: 31
Religion: Predominately Christian (Catholic and Protestant).
Political System: Constitutional Monarchy
Internet Domain: .nl
Netherlands Travel Advice
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office offers travellers useful advice when travelling to the Netherlands. You can find more information on entry requirements for Netherlands, advice on local laws and customs, tips on safety and security and the address and contact details of the British Consulate in the Netherlands. The information is updated on a regular basis making it a useful resource to check for both business and leisure travellers, before starting their trips to the Netherlands. For more information please see: Netherlands Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
No visa requirement for national of EU member states. No visa need for US and Canadian nationals for visits less than six months. Visa requirements are subject to change with changes in requirements and rules for further information please see: Netherlands Visa Requirements
Business Customs and Etiquette
Business dress is conservative and smart, greetings usually consists of a firm handshake. People are addressed with their titles, personal space is important and should be observed. There is separation between work and personal time and asking personal questions should be avoided. The communication style is direct and straight, honest answers are sought after. Decision making can involve a consensus this can mean longer lead times to reaching a decision. Punctuality for business meetings is seen as very important, also a persons word is regarded as their bond, so be careful as to what your company can deliver.
Travel Advice and Tips
Most trips to the Netherlands for business visitors and tourists take place without any incident and concern. There are incidents of pick pocketing and bag snatching especially in crowded public areas, always watch your belongings and do not leave them unattended. It is important to always remain alert and aware of your surroundings and environment to help steer clear of potential incidents.
Travel Checklist: See our Checklist for Travellers containing useful tips and reminders to ensure you have everything you will need on your trip.
Travel Vaccinations: It is recommended you check with your GP for the latest advice on whether you require any travel vaccinations up to eight weeks before you travel. For more information and advice on travel vaccinations please see the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Tipping: If service charge is not included usually around 10%
Hours of Business:
For Businesses:
8.30 to 17.00/17.30 Monday to Friday
For Shops:
09.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday; 09.00 to 17.00 on Saturdays
For Banks:
09.00/10.00 to 16.00/17.00 Monday to Friday
NOTE: Supermarkets are open 08.00 to 22.00 Monday to Friday & 08.00 to 18.00 on Saturdays. There are shops and larger stores open on Sundays.
Public Holidays
Public Holidays (2012):
January 1: New Year's Day
April 6: Good Friday
April 9: Easter Monday
April 30: Queen's Birthday (Koninginnendag)
May 4: Remembrance Day
May 5: Liberation Day
May 17: Ascension Day
May 28: Whit Sunday (Pentecost)
December 25: Christmas Day
December 26: Second Christmas Day / Boxing Day
Netherlands Map
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Related Resources
Netherlands Weather
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
