The strict lockdown many anticipated is now reality in the Netherlands. Below is a clear overview of the latest COVID-19 measures, effective until January 19, 2021.
Starting Tuesday, December 15
- Non-essential retail stores will close. Supermarkets, grocery stores, drugstores, pharmacies, and banks remain open. See here which stores qualify.
- High-traffic venues like museums, theaters, cinemas, zoos, and amusement parks will close.
- Contact professions such as hairdressers, beauty salons, and sex workers must shut down. Medical contact professions like physiotherapists and dentists are exempt. View the full list of permitted professions here.
- Gyms, swimming pools, and saunas will close.
- Maximum visitors (indoor and outdoor) reduced from three to two. Christmas exception (December 24-26): add one extra guest.
From Wednesday, December 16
- Schools (primary, secondary, and higher education) will close and switch to online learning. Available for children of essential workers.
- Childcare centers will close but remain open for children of essential profession parents. See which professions are essential here.
Ongoing Measures
- Community centers and libraries (for book pickup/return) stay open.
- Hotels remain open but cannot serve food or drinks.
- Places of worship stay open.
- Funerals limited to 100 attendees.
- Coffee shop and catering takeaway allowed.
- Eredivisie and top sports continue without spectators.
- Outdoor sports: Adults (18+) with max one other person; under-18s can train in groups.
- Advice: Stay home as much as possible.
Overview
Prime Minister Mark Rutte shared this concise Twitter overview of all measures:
