Customs

Household Goods

To move your household goods and effects to the Netherlands tax free, you will need an Exemption permit from Dutch customs. Your international moving company will likely handle most of the details. However, the moving company form can be used only if the questions are the same as the application form on the Exemption permit. In order to obtain an Exemption permit, you will need to satisfy a number of conditions, which are listed on the application form. The application form also lists the documents required for application, which include:

• Three copies of a legible inventory list with the signature of your shipper
• A copy of your passport
• A copy of proof of registration of the community you intend to live in (the document can be obtained at local town hall)
• An employer’s declaration stating the place and duration of employment in The Netherlands
• A copy of the lease or deed of future residence
• An application form for exemption from duties and taxes and an additional customs statement (request will be granted at the discretion of Dutch customs)

You also will need to submit a signed inventory list of all your household goods and effects that you will bring into the Netherlands.

Detailed information is available at this Dutch Customs website.

Dutiable/Restricted Items

The following is a partial list of items that are either restricted or placed under specific conditions on entry into the Netherlands:

• Hunting/shooting firearms
• Medicines
• Plants/flowers/fruits/vegetables
• Animal byproducts/food items

Motor Vehicles

To import a car (maximum of two), a boat or a motorbike, you must apply for a duty free import license at Customs. This permit is in addition to the Exemption permit required for household goods and effects. The duty free import license application must be accompanied by the following vehicle documents:

• A copy of the certificate of title
• A copy of the purchase invoice
• A copy of your vehicle insurance policy

To receive the duty free import license, you must be able to show that your vehicle has been in your possession and use for at least six months. Some conditions may apply for receiving the permit. More information is available at this Dutch Customs website.

Pet Regulations and Procedures

In order to bring your pet into the Netherlands, a mandatory veterinary certificate must be provided. This certificate is valid for four months, or until the expiration date of the vaccination, whichever comes first.

Dogs and cats less than 12 weeks old are permitted to travel to the Netherlands without prior inoculation against rabies. The animal must travel with a statement from a veterinary doctor that declares the animal resided at the birthplace until the travel date and has not been in contact with any animals possibly infected with rabies. All other dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination should be given at least 21 days before leaving for the Netherlands. Rabies vaccinations should be administered after insertion of a microchip so the information can be linked to the chip. The United States is considered a low risk region for rabies, so no rabies serological test is required.

If you wish to identify your pet through a microchip, please be aware that the microchip must meet the ISO standard Annex A, 2.1, ISO # 11785. Pets other than dogs, cats and ferrets may also enter the country, unless the species is listed under the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) or the U.S. Endangered Species Act. If they are not listed they can enter the Netherlands with a health certificate issued by your local veterinarian. This health certificate cannot be older than 10 days upon arrival in the Netherlands.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides more information on this webpage.