Coronavirus measures

Leiden University is following the recommendations of the Dutch Institute of Public Health and Environment (RIVM) in order to ensure the health and safety of its students and staff. Before departure, it is very important that you familiarise yourself with the travel requirements and coronavirus measures that are currently in place.

Coronavirus measures in the Netherlands

• On the Dutch government website you can find the coronavirus measures that are currently in place in the Netherlands, for example concerning social distancing, gatherings and the use of face masks. 
• On the website of the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) you can find the latest coronavirus health and hygiene advise.

Coronavirus measures at Leiden University

• Leiden University's Campus Protocol lists the measures and guidelines that apply within the university to ensure the safety of our students and staff and reduce the risk of a further spread of the virus. Read the protocol carefully. 
• Before coming to university buildings, always do the Corona check!

Travel, testing and quarantine requirements

Before travelling to The Netherlands, it is essential that you read the Dutch government’s 'Checklist for travel to The Netherlands'. This covers matters such as entry restrictions, flight bans, negative test requirements and self-quarantine.

Entry ban exemption

• Although there is currently an entry ban in place for most non-EU nationals, students who will study in The Netherlands with a residence pemit are exempted. If you are travelling from a country that is subject to an entry ban, make sure to have one of the following documents ready in case you are asked to show it:
  • Your student entry visa (MVV).
  • If you do not require an entry visa: your official IND letter confirming approval of your residence permit.
  • If you are returning to the Netherlands from a stay abroad: your valid student residence permit card (VVR).

Where can I get a corona test before departure?

• To enter The Netherlands, you will generally need a negative PCR test result. On the Netherlands Worldwide site you can find out where you can take a test in your home country. 

Self-quarantine

• In most cases, international students must self-quarantine for a period of 10 days upon arrival. See the Dutch government regulations on self-quarantine. We would like to stress that you may not be on campus during your quarantine period. For more information, see the FAQ for students travelling from a region with a red or orange travel code and read more about self-quarantine at home. 

Self-quarantine buddy service

Leiden University offers a buddy service for students in self-quarantine.Your buddy can provide you with online moral support and social interaction, as well as practical tips for students in self-quarantine. If you are unable to order groceries online, your buddy can also do your grocery shopping up to twice a week. Make sure to plan your meals in advance. 

• Request a self-quarantine buddy 

We will do our best to provide you with a buddy, however please be aware this may not always be possible due to capacity issues. If we are unable to find you a buddy, we will instead refer you to other external resources. 

Further information and support

For further information on coronavirus measures in the Netherlands, please visit the Netherlands and You website.

On the Studying in times of corona site you can find information on practical matters such as online classes and exams, IT facilities and online study tips.

For advice and information on the support available in these difficult times, see the Wellbeing page.