Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) — Transit Guide
Transit and entry requirements at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Quick Facts
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is a Schengen Area airport in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Transiting here may require ETIAS or a transit visa depending on your nationality.
Airport AMS
City Amsterdam
Country Netherlands
Schengen Yes
✈️
Airport Code AMS
🏙️
City Amsterdam
🇪🇺
Country Netherlands
🌍
Schengen Yes
Transit at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. As a Schengen Area airport, transiting here may require ETIAS or a Schengen transit visa, depending on your nationality.
If you're connecting between two flights that both stay within the Schengen Area, no additional entry is required. If arriving from outside the Schengen Area, you'll pass through border control.
Transit Requirements at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport by Nationality
- EU/EEA citizens Transit freely with passport or national ID. No visa, ETIAS, or other authorization needed.
- Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, etc.) Can transit without a visa. ETIAS will be required from Q4 2026 (€20) — even for airside transit.
- Visa-required nationals May need a Schengen Airport Transit Visa (ATV) even for airside connections. Check with the embassy of Netherlands.
Transit FAQs — Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Do I need a visa to transit through Amsterdam Schiphol Airport?
It depends on your nationality. EU citizens transit freely. Visa-exempt nationals will need ETIAS from Q4 2026. Some nationalities need a Schengen transit visa even for airside transit.
Is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport a Schengen airport?
Yes. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is in Netherlands, a Schengen Area member. Arriving from outside the Schengen Area means passing through border control.
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
If you have valid entry authorization (ETIAS, Schengen visa, or EU passport), you can leave the airport and visit Amsterdam during your layover.
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