On Wednesday, May 6, Prime Minister Rutte and health minister De Jonge announced the government’s roadmap to gradually re-open the Netherlands.
The basic measures will remain
The following basic measures will remain unchanged and will form part of the so-called new 1.5 metre distance society:
- Keep to the 1.5-metre distance rule;
- Avoid crowds;
- Work from home as much as possible;
- Wash your hands often;
- Sneeze and cough in your elbow;
- Stay home in case of flu-like symptoms. In case one also has trouble breathing and/or fever, all household members must stay home.
The upcoming changes
As from 11 May 2020:
- Primary schools will reopen;
- “Contact” professions can be carried out again (hairdressers, nail salons, driving instructors etc.), by appointment only. Face mask not compulsory;
- Libraries are to reopen;
- Non-contact sports can be practised again (tennis, golf etc.), however competitions are not allowed;
- Meetings / gatherings of 10 people are allowed, but the 1.5metre distance rules applies;
As a test, 25 nursing homes will also be allowed to welcome visitors, of course whilst respecting the 1.5metre rule. If in due time, the numbers show no indication of increase of corona cases and/or deaths, more and more nursing homes may re-open to visitors.
As from 1 June 2020:
- Public transport will run again according to the normal schedule. However, wearing a face mask is compulsory (non-medical);
- Secondary schools will reopen;
- Terraces will reopen. Under the conditions that everyone is seated at a table and keeps the obligatory 1.5-metre distance. Maximum of 30 people, including personell;
- Restaurants, museums, theatres and cinemas can reopen. Max. 30 people. Reservations needed, as well as adhering to the 1.5-metre distance rule;
It’s the government aim that by this date, everyone who has coronavirus symptoms can be tested.
As from 1 July 2020:
- Holiday parks and campsites are to reopen, including public sanitary facilities;
- Restaurants, theatres and cinemas can have a max. of 100 visitors. Reservations needed, as well as adhering to the 1.5-metre distance rule;
- Churches, mosques, congress centres and crematoriums are allowed 100 visitors. This also includes weddings.
As from 1 September 2020:
- Sex clubs, saunas and casinos to reopen;
- Contact sports can be practised again and gyms are to reopen;
- Certain events and competitions will be allowed, terms and conditions will apply.
Large events
The government has not yet made a decision when it comes to holding large events, such as festivals and concerts. This decision will likely be made before September 1
Travelling
Despite the government’s plans to re-open the Netherlands, travelling is still restricted to essential travel only. Easing up this rule will also depend on other countries.
Please read more about the Corona situation in the Netherlands on our website.
