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.
The Netherlands has an advanced and developed economy with a number of business opportunities. The country is located in western Europe and a founding member of the EU, OECD, Eurozone, NATO, World Trade Organisation (WTO) and Benelux. Major trading partners include EU neighbours Germany, France, UK, Belgium and China. The Netherlands is a multicultural, multiracial country and home to a number of ethic groups. The Netherlands shares borders with Germany in the east and Belgium in the south, the north and west coasts are bordered by the North Sea.
The country is known for its flat and low geography, with many areas below sea level man made; landscapes include low and flat lands along with higher lands and minor hills. Famous attractions include the Van Gogh Museum, Ann Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Keukenhof (Garden of Europe), Natura Artis Magistra, Vondelpark, Royal Palace in Amsterdam, Rembrandt House Museum and the Canals of Amsterdam in the capital city of Amsterdam and Madurodam, Maastricht Vrijthof, Efteling, Hoge Veluwe National Park and Kinderdijk.
Netherlands Guide
Netherlands Quick Facts
Netherlands Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
Business Customs and Etiquette
Travel Advice and Tips
Public Holidays
Netherlands Map
Netherlands Weather & Climate
Netherlands Quick Facts
Country: Netherlands
Capital: Amsterdam
Currency: Euro (1 euro = 100 cents)
Population: 16.7 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 800.2 billion (World Bank, 2013)
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 Embassy UK
Business Customs and Etiquette
Business meetings should be arranged in advance, business dress is conservative and smart, greetings usually consists of a firm handshake, after introductions business cards are exchanged. 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. The best times to visit for business are from March and May and from September to November. Many Dutch business people speak English, interpreters are available should they be required.
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 (2015):
January 1: New Year's Day
April 3: Good Friday
April 6: Easter Monday
April 30: King's Day
May 5: Liberation Day
May 14: Ascension Day
May 25: Whit Sunday (Pentecost)
December 25: Christmas Day
December 26: Second Christmas Day / Boxing Day
Netherlands Map
Map of Amsterdam, Netherlands
View Larger Map
Netherlands Weather & Climate
The Netherlands has a relatively modest maritime climate, characterised by cool to mild summers and mild winters. The most popular time to visit is during the April to October period with cities like Amsterdam busy during the months of July and August. Famous for its flowers, the best time to see the fields is from mid April to mid May where there provide a splendid spectacle.
Lightweight cotton and linen clothing can be warn in the summer months; water proof clothing including rain coats and umbrellas are useful throughout the year. The winters can get chilly and there is the possibility of snowfall; visitors should ensure they have warm clothing and layers if visiting during the winter months.
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.
