CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Netherlands

1. RECENT UPDATES

The information contained in this Travel Report has been thoroughly reviewed and updated.

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 flu virus.

For more information on ARUBA, BONAIRE, CURACAO and SINT MAARTEN, including the embassies and/or consulates available to provide local consular assistance, see Section 12.

Please see the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Web site for more details on entry requirements for travellers transiting through the United States.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

Netherlands

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

On March 6, 2008, the Dutch government increased the terrorism alert from “limited” to “substantial” because of the international threat from terrorism and the Dutch decision to extend their military presence in Afghanistan. Security has been increased, particularly at airports and railway stations.

Travellers can expect increased police presence and security at major airports and throughout transportation networks in Western Europe and elsewhere, and may consequently experience delays. Canadians should exercise caution and maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and in all places.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions.

Crime

Violent crime rarely occurs. However, tourists are frequently victims of robbery. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs in larger cities, particularly in Amsterdam where it is a major problem. Do not carry valuables or large sums of money. Do not leave baggage or personal belongings unattended in vehicles at any time. Passports and other valuable documents are often stolen from youth hostels in Amsterdam.

Pay particular attention while on trains to and from Schiphol Airport. Robberies by gangs have occurred. One gang member distracts the victim, often asking for directions, while another grabs the victim's belongings. Thefts are timed to coincide with train stops, for a quick exit. Victims who resist have been physically assaulted. Thieves are also active in Amsterdam, in and around Central Station, the red light district, in restaurants, and on public transportation, especially Trams 1 and 5, between Central Station and the museum district. 

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur periodically in larger urban centres such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Strikes also occur occasionally. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings as they can turn violent without notice. You should also follow the advice of the local authorities at all times.

General Safety Information

The Amsterdam Tourist Assistance Service (ATAS) can help travellers who experience difficulties: Nieuwezijdsvoorburgwal 104-108, 1012 SG (tel.: 020-625-3246). In The Hague, the Tourist Assistance Service (TAS) can be contacted at: Politiebureau Duinstraat, Duinstraat 23, 2584 AV Den Haag, (tel.: 070-42-44-000, email: TAS-HOLLAND@hotmail.com).

Ensure personal belongings and other travel documents are secure at all times.

In an emergency, call 112 for police, fire department, or ambulance services.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Dutch authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the Royal Netherlands Embassy and its consulates, for up-to-date information.

Entry and exit requirements may be different for ARUBA, BONAIRE, CURACAO and SINT MAARTEN.

A Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit the Netherlands. The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of the expected departure from the country. Canadians must also have proof of sufficient funds in order to buy a return airline ticket. Travel health insurance is recommended.

Tourist Visa: Not required (for stays of less than 90 days within a 6-month period)
Business Visa: Not required (for stays of less than 90 days within a 6-month period)
Student Visa: Not required (for stays of less than 90 days within a 6-month period)

For stays of more than three months, Canadians should contact the nearest Dutch embassy or consulate to obtain more information on entry requirements.

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Schengen Area

The Member States of the European Union (EU) (not including the United Kingdom and Ireland), along with Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland, make up the Schengen Area, which aims for common rules regarding visas, asylum rights, and controls at external borders.

The external land, air, and sea border controls of nine countries that joined the EU in 2004 (the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia) have been removed. Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus will fully apply the Schengen acquis at a later date.

In the Schengen Area, Canadian travellers do not need visas for short-term visits (up to 90 days within a six-month period), but some countries require you to register with local authorities within three working days of your arrival. It is important to get your passport stamped when entering the Schengen Area. The absence of an entry stamp from the initial Schengen port of entry could create difficulties during subsequent encounters with local police or other authorities throughout the Schengen area.

If Canadians overstay the permitted 90 days in the Schengen Area, they may be fined or deported. To visit longer than 90 days, Canadians must either obtain a long-stay national visa or have been outside the Schengen Area for at least 90 consecutive days before re-entering.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

EU legislation on the amount of cash that can be carried was implemented on June 15, 2007. Canadians crossing one of the external border control points of the EU will have to make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if they have at least 10,000 euros, or the equivalent in other currencies, in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller's cheques, or any other convertible assets in their possession. Failure to report such a sum will be considered an offence. This does not apply to Canadians travelling within the EU or in transit to a non-EU country. The purpose of this legislation is to prevent illegal activities, such as money laundering. For more information on the new EU legislation and links to EU countries' sites, consult http://ec.europa.eu/eucashcontrols.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Netherlands - THE HAGUE, Embassy of Canada
Address: Sophialaan 7, 2514 JP The Hague, The Netherlands
Postal Address: P.O. Box 30820, The Hague, The Netherlands, 2500 GV
Tel.: 31 (70) 311-1600
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 00-800-2326-6831
Fax: 31 (70) 311-1620
E-Mail: hague@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.Netherlands.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in The Hague and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Excellent medical facilities are widely available.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons. However, Canada and the Netherlands are signatories to the European Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, which enables a Canadian imprisoned in the Netherlands to request to be transferred to Canada to complete the sentence in a Canadian prison. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Dutch authorities.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Since January 1, 2005, the law requires that everyone over the age of 14 be able to show valid identification to law enforcement authorities at all times, upon request. Valid passports, Dutch residence permits, and driving licences issued in the Netherlands or elsewhere in the European Union or European Economic Area are considered acceptable. Anyone failing to produce appropriate identification upon request may be fined 50 euros (25 euros for persons aged 14 to 16). You should report the loss or theft of identification documents immediately to the nearest police station. Obtain a copy of the police report, keep it on your person, and apply for a replacement document as soon as possible.

The possession, use, and sale by licensed "coffee shops" of small amounts of marijuana and hashish have been decriminalized and are unlikely to lead to criminal charges. However, drug possession and trafficking remain illegal. Penalties may include jail sentences and heavy fines.

Same-sex marriage is legal.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Roads and public transportation are excellent. Trams and cyclists have priority over other traffic. Motorists and pedestrians must pay attention to cyclists and cycle paths. Centre lanes of many urban two-way streets are reserved for buses, trams, and taxis. There is a chronic lack of parking space for automobiles across the country, and fines for illegal parking are severe. Road congestion is frequent in areas around Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, where rail is a convenient alternative. Rail network information is available at ww.ns.nl. Train passengers should be cautious as theft and robberies have been reported. Taxi service is generally safe but expensive.

The minimum age for driving a car in the Netherlands is 18 years old.

The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless fitted with a hands-free device.

The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the euro (EUR). Credit cards and traveller's cheques are widely accepted.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Flooding is a threat on coastal lands protected from the sea by dikes.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

ARUBA

Aruba

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Most Canadian travellers to Aruba do not experience problems.

The hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. For more information, please see our Global Issue on the hurricane season.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

Petty crime can occur. Ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure. Avoid unpopulated areas or unpatrolled beaches after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are patrolled. Vehicle theft occurs frequently.

Since January 23, 2007, all Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from Aruba by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more detailed information, please see the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Web site.

A Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Aruba. It must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of your expected departure from Aruba. If travelling to Aruba directly from Canada, for one week or less, you are only required to be in possession of valid photo identification and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate).

Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Work permit: Required
Student Visa: Required

Canadians visiting Aruba as tourists could be asked to submit an onward/return ticket, a valid reservation for accommodations in Aruba, or proof of sufficient financial resources to an immigration officer upon entry. Canadian citizens are allowed to visit Aruba as tourists for up to 180 days per year.

All visitors wishing to work in Aruba must have a written permit from the Directorate of Alien Integration, Policy and Admission (DIMAS). Visitors are not allowed to be in paid employment by an Aruban employer while visiting Aruba as a tourist. Further information and application forms can be obtained free of charge at the DIMAS.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers arriving from infected areas.

An airport tax may be charged upon departure.

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Curaçao - CURAÇAO, Consulate of Canada
Address: Maduro and Curiel's Bank, N.V., Plaza Jojo Correa 2-4, Willemstad (Punda), Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles
Postal Address: P.O. Box 305, Willemstad, Netherlands Antilles,
Tel.: 599 (9) 466-1115 or 466-1121
Fax: 599 (9) 466-1122 or 466-1130

The Embassy of Canada in Caracas, Venezuela, has consular responsibility for Aruba.

Venezuela - CARACAS, Embassy of Canada
Address: Avenida Francisco de Miranda con Avenida Altamira Sur, Altamira, Caracas 1060, Venezuela
Postal Address: P.O. Box Embassy of Canada, Apartado 62302, Caracas 1060A,
Tel.: 58 (212) 600-3000/264-0833
Fax: 58 (212) 261-8741
E-Mail: crcas@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.venezuela.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Caracas, Venezuela, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

Dual nationals may be subject to national obligations such as taxes. Those affected should inquire at the embassy or consulate of the Netherlands regarding their status. Dual nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services.

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and the Caribbean before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

Although same-sex marriage is legal in the Netherlands, it is not recognized in Aruba.

Major roads are in good condition, but road signs are rare. Wandering animals are a hazard. Driving is on the right side of the road, and turning right on red lights is prohibited. As taxis do not have meters, you should agree on a fare prior to departure. Purchase insurance when renting motorboats, jet skis, and vehicles. Ensure that you obtain detailed information, in writing, regarding personal liability. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, but foreign and international driving licences are accepted.

The currency is the Aruba guilder (AWG). U.S. dollars, traveller's cheques, and credit cards are widely accepted.

Medical care is generally good. Hospitals offer several classes of service. Patients are accommodated according to the level of their insurance coverage. Travel health insurance is recommended.

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BONAIRE

Bonaire

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Most Canadian travellers to Bonaire do not experience problems.

The hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. For more information, please see our Global Issue on the hurricane season.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

Petty crime can occur. Ensure personal belongings, passports and travel documents are secure at all times. Avoid unpopulated areas or unpatrolled beaches after dark. Check with local authorities to find out which beaches are patrolled. Vehicle theft occurs frequently.

Since January 23, 2007, all Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from Bonaire by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more detailed information, please see the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Web site.

A valid Canadian passport should be carried for all visits outside of Canada. However, for travel to Bonaire, Canadians are only required to be in possession of valid official photo identification (such as a driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate).

Permanent Residents of Canada must travel with their Permanent Resident Card and a valid passport from their country of origin.

Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Student Visa: Required

Canadians planning to visit Bonaire as tourists could be asked to submit an onward/return ticket, a valid reservation for accommodations in Bonaire, or proof of sufficient financial resources to an immigration officer upon entry. Canadian citizens are allowed to visit Bonaire as tourists for up to 90 days per year.

Travellers are required to carry evidence of a yellow fever vaccination if arriving from infected areas.

An airport tax may be charged upon departure.

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Curaçao - CURAÇAO, Consulate of Canada
Address: Maduro and Curiel's Bank, N.V., Plaza Jojo Correa 2-4, Willemstad (Punda), Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles
Postal Address: P.O. Box 305, Willemstad, Netherlands Antilles,
Tel.: 599 (9) 466-1115 or 466-1121
Fax: 599 (9) 466-1122 or 466-1130

The Embassy of Canada in Caracas, Venezuela, has consular responsibility for Bonaire.

Venezuela - CARACAS, Embassy of Canada
Address: Avenida Francisco de Miranda con Avenida Altamira Sur, Altamira, Caracas 1060, Venezuela
Postal Address: P.O. Box Embassy of Canada, Apartado 62302, Caracas 1060A,
Tel.: 58 (212) 600-3000/264-0833
Fax: 58 (212) 261-8741
E-Mail: crcas@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.venezuela.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Caracas, Venezuela, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

Dual nationals may be subject to national obligations such as taxes. Those affected should inquire at an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands regarding their status. Dual nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services.

Persons violating Netherlands Antilles law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Gun control and penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. It is strictly prohibited to export pieces of coral or seashells.

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in the Caribbean before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

Although same-sex marriage is legal in the Netherlands, it is not recognized in the Netherlands Antilles.

Major roads are in good condition, but road signs are rare. Wandering animals are a hazard. Driving is on the right side of the road, and turning right on red lights is prohibited. Public transportation is reliable. As taxis do not have meters, you should agree on a fare prior to departure. You should purchase insurance when renting motorboats, jet skis, and vehicles. Ensure that you obtain detailed information, in writing, regarding personal liability. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, but foreign and international driving licences are accepted.

The currency is the Netherlands Antilles guilder (ANG). U.S. dollars, traveller's cheques, and credit cards are widely accepted. Travel health insurance is recommended.

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CURAÇAO

Curaçao

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Most Canadian travellers to Curaçao do not experience problems.

The hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. For more information, please see our Global Issue on the hurricane season.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

Petty crime can occur. Exercise normal safety precautions and maintain vigilance as there have been reported cases of violent assault. Ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Avoid unpopulated areas or unpatrolled beaches after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe.

Since January 23, 2007, all Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from Curaçao by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more detailed information, please see the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Web site.

A valid Canadian passport should be carried for all visits outside of Canada. However, for travel to Curaçao, Canadians are only required to be in possession of valid official photo identification (such as a driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate).

Permanent Residents of Canada must travel with their Permanent Resident Card and a valid passport from their country of origin.

Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Student Visa: Not Required (for stays of less than 90 days within a 6-month period)

Canadians planning to visit Curaçao as tourists could be asked to submit an onward/return ticket, a valid reservation for accommodations in Curaçao, or proof of sufficient financial resources to an immigration officer upon entry. Canadians are allowed to visit Curaçao as tourists for up to 90 days within a 6-month period. They can ask for an additional 3-month extension. The request must be made at least three weeks in advance.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers arriving from infected areas.

An airport tax may be charged upon departure.

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Curaçao - CURAÇAO, Consulate of Canada
Address: Maduro and Curiel's Bank, N.V., Plaza Jojo Correa 2-4, Willemstad (Punda), Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles
Postal Address: P.O. Box 305, Willemstad, Netherlands Antilles,
Tel.: 599 (9) 466-1115 or 466-1121
Fax: 599 (9) 466-1122 or 466-1130

The Embassy of Canada in Caracas, Venezuela, has consular responsibility for Curaçao.

Venezuela - CARACAS, Embassy of Canada
Address: Avenida Francisco de Miranda con Avenida Altamira Sur, Altamira, Caracas 1060, Venezuela
Postal Address: P.O. Box Embassy of Canada, Apartado 62302, Caracas 1060A,
Tel.: 58 (212) 600-3000/264-0833
Fax: 58 (212) 261-8741
E-Mail: crcas@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.venezuela.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Caracas, Venezuela, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

Dual nationals may be subject to national obligations such as taxes. Those affected should inquire at an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands regarding their status. Dual nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services.

Persons violating Netherlands Antilles law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Gun control and penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.

It is strictly prohibited to export pieces of coral or seashells.

Travellers are allowed to purchase a maximum of $600 worth of duty-free merchandise based on the retail value. For further information, please contact the Embassy or one of the consulates of the Netherlands (see above).

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in the Caribbean before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

Although same-sex marriage is legal in the Netherlands, it is not recognized in the Netherlands Antilles.

Major roads are in good condition, but road signs are rare. Wandering animals are a hazard. Driving is on the right side of the road, and turning right on red lights is prohibited. All taxi drivers carry a badge and labels inside their taxi to identify themselves. Taxis have meters with fixed rates for each journey. There are taxi stands at the airport, in Punda and Otrobanda, and outside major hotels. Canadians should purchase insurance when renting motorboats, jet skis or vehicles and ensure that they obtain detailed information, in writing, regarding personal liability. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, but foreign and international driving licences are accepted.

The currency is the Netherlands Antilles guilder (ANG). U.S. dollars, traveller's cheques and credit cards are widely accepted.

Medical care is generally good. Hospitals offer several classes of service. Patients are accommodated according to the level of their insurance coverage.

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SINT MAARTEN

Sint Maarten

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Most Canadian travellers to Sint Maarten do not experience problems.

The hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. For more information, please see our Global Issue on the hurricane season.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

Petty crime occurs. Ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. There have been some reports of armed robberies and tourists being chased by people on motorcycles. Avoid unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe.

Most Canadians travelling to the island will arrive by plane on the Dutch side (Sint Maarten).

Since January 23, 2007, all Canadian citizens transiting the United States when travelling to and from Sint Maarten by air must comply with entry requirements to the U.S. For more detailed information, please see the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Web site.

A valid Canadian passport should be carried for all visits outside of Canada. However, for travel to Sint Maarten, Canadians are only required to be in possession of valid official photo identification (such as a driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate).

Permanent Residents of Canada must travel with their Permanent Resident Card and a valid passport from their country of origin.

There are no customs checkpoints between the two dependencies. Visitors are free to travel from one territory to the other without problems. A Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to arrive on the French side of the island (Saint Martin).

A departure tax of US$20 is charged for all international departures from Juliana Aiport (Sint Maarten) and by sea. There are no departure taxes from Espérance Airport.

Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Student Visa: Required

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Sint Maarten - DAWN BEACH, Consulate of Canada
Address: 11A Green Star Shell Road, Dawn Beach, Sint Maarten
Tel.: 599 543-6261
After hours tel.: 599 520-5202
Fax: 599 543-6291
E-Mail: canadacon@caribserve.net

The High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados, has consular responsibility for Sint Maarten.

Barbados - BRIDGETOWN, High Commission of Canada
Address: Bishop's Court Hill, St. Michael, P.O. Box 404, Bridgetown, Barbados BB11000
Tel.: (246) 429-3550
Fax: (246) 437-7436
E-Mail: bdgtn@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.barbados.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Consulate of Canada in Dawn Beach, Sint Maartin, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in the Caribbean before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

Although same-sex marriage is legal in the Netherlands, it is not recognized in the Netherlands Antilles.

A valid Canadian driver's licence is sufficient for driving in Saint Martin/Sint Maarten. Right-hand turns on red lights are prohibited. Particular care should be taken when renting vehicles, especially when arranging for insurance and liability. Ask questions and obtain detailed written information regarding your personal responsibilities before finalizing any rental arrangements. Taxis are plentiful and are a convenient way to get around during short stays. Juliana Airport, the international airport serving both sides of the island, is located in Sint Maarten.

The currency is the Netherlands Antilles guilder (ANG).

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