AMS · Before you leave the transit area · checked 29 October 2026
Entering the Netherlands from an AMS layover
The Netherlands is in Schengen. Entering from a layover uses the same rules as entering from a holiday. The only difference is that you have less time to fix a mistake.
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens
Use the EU lane with a passport or identity card. The rest of this page is about the train, not about permission.
Visa-exempt non-EU travellers
You may enter for a short stay, generally 90 days in any 180 across the Schengen area. The Entry/Exit System has been fully operational since 10 April 2026. Border staff record the travel document and biometrics. Do not expect a stamp as your souvenir.
ETIAS is not in operation. No official applications are open. Ignore any site selling an 'ETIAS for Amsterdam' today. The European Commission will announce the real start months ahead, on travel-europe.europa.eu.
Visa-required travellers
You need a Schengen visa issued before the trip. Schiphol does not issue one between flights. If you do not have it, stay airside.
A note on the easy city
Amsterdam is the simplest city break on LayoverPath, and the border is still a border. Sort the passport question before you celebrate the 15 minute train.
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