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About the Consulate General
Consul General Ruterbories
Consul General Ames
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Past Events 2008
Past Events 2007
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Streamlined Border Crossing Between The U.S. And The Netherlands
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15th Annual Jewish Music Festival Reception October 23, 2009 On Friday October 23, 2009, U.S. Consul General Julie Ruterbories hosted a reception to celebrate the opening of the 15th International Jewish Music Festival at the U.S. Consulate General, Amsterdam. Over the years, the International Jewish Music Festival has grown into a popular event. This year, the organizers welcomed back the winners from last year for a weekend of concerts and workshops. During the reception the American close-harmony ensemble, “Vocolot,” performed a selection of songs to the delight of the assembled guests.
New Acquisition for the Consulate General Amsterdam Historical Archive  | Museumplein 19 in about 1918.
(From: Het Stadswoonhuis in Nederland, 2nd
edition, Martinus Nijhoff, 1924) |
October 16, 2009 The historical records archive of the Consulate General in Amsterdam acquired a 93 year old publication containing unique pictures of the interior of the building at the Museumplein 19 in Amsterdam, as it was in 1916. At the time the building was home to the Van Heukelom family who had their stately mansion's interior designed by architect J.A. Pool and furnished with Chippendale style furniture, very much in vogue back then. Click here to see these pictures. Click here to read our entire history chapter.
"Sorry Sir, Madam, those photos are the wrong format" October 8, 2009 Though the State Department introduced a new required passport photo format many years ago, we still see applicants who present the wrong format photo. This causes undue delay in providing and receiving the service you request from the Consulate. The correct U.S. document photo format is a square 2" x 2", or 51 x 51 millimeters. The background must be white or at least off white. This format is required for all consular services, be it a U.S. passport application, a temporary or immigrant visa application. Our photo instruction pages have more information and a partial list of photoplaces in The Netherlands that have informed the Consulate they can provide photos of the U.S. format.  | Correct head position and placement |
Photo instructions for U.S. citizen services Photo instructions for visa services in English Foto instructies in het Nederlands
September Citizen Outreach A Success  | Dorinda Farver, host
of the Breda outreach
event, lined the road
leading to her home
with large U.S. flags
and arrows leading
the way. The flags
were a patriotic
welcome for clients
and staff alike. |
October 7, 2009 During September, Consulate General Amsterdam’s American Citizen Services (ACS) demand drops to the lowest monthly level. The Consulate took advantage of this seasonal lull to provide services off-site during September in three major Dutch cities: The Hague, Groningen and Breda. Passport renewals, mostly for minor children, accounted for two-thirds of the services provided. Other services included Consular Reports of Births Abroad (CRBA), visa pages, Social Security applications and notarials. Services were provided at a host home or business during the evening or on a Saturday afternoon to maximize convenience for working clients. Many thanks to our hosts for their gracious hospitality. Clients, particularly parents with young children, commented favorably on the outreach efforts and praised the Consulate General for the outreach program. Although the Netherlands is a small and densely populated country with excellent public transportation, the travel time by train or car to the country’s sole U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam can take several hours. Based on the positive client feedback, we plan to make the September outreach an annual event and will expand publicity efforts. If you are interested in hosting a future outreach event, please send an email to AmsterdamOutreach@state.gov.
Americans Overseas Domestic Violence Crisis Center Information Session October 16, 2009 The Americans Overseas Domestic Violence Crisis Center (AODVC), an American-based nonprofit that provides services to Americans experiencing domestic violence while residing in foreign countries, in collaboration with the Ending Violence Against Women Task Force of the Federation of American Women’s Clubs Overseas (FAWCO), will hold an information session in Amsterdam on October 20th regarding the issues that face Americans overseas experiencing domestic violence. The sessions will begin at 9:30 a.m. and will end at 11:45 a.m. Networking with coffee & pastries will begin at 9am. There will be a lunch to follow until 1:00 pm, after which the volunteer ambassador training sessions will begin. The informational session will consist of a welcome, an introduction to AODVC, a discussion of issues facing the population served, and a briefing from a representative of the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam. Registration is required. Please follow this link to register and for confirmation of the location: http://866uswomen.org/Register-for-the-Informational-Session.aspx For more information please go to http://www.866uswomen.org/ or email Brooke Galloway at brookeg@866uswomen.org or call (U.S.) 503 203-1444.
John Cassavetes' Retrospective at the Amsterdam Film museum  | Consul General
Julie A. Ruterbories
at the Amsterdam
Film Museum |
September 17, 2009 On September 17, 2009, Consul General Julie Ruterbories opened the exhibition of American photographer Sam Shaw and his son Larry Shaw at the Amsterdam Film Museum. The exhibition has been organized on the occasion of the John Cassavetes’ retrospective with which the Film museum opened its new season. John Cassavetes and Sam Shaw were lifelong friends. More information is available from the Film Museum website.
September 11, 2001, Remembered   | L-R Cantor Ken Gould, Rev. John Cowie, Consul
General of Morocco Abderrahim Beyyoudh,
Consul General of the United States of America
Julie A. Ruterbories, Rev. Howie Adan |
September 11, 2009 Consul General Julie Ruterbories organized and spoke at an interfaith September 11th Remembrance Service. Representatives of the Jewish, Muslim and Christian faiths offered prayers and readings from their traditions urging unity and compassion. The service was followed by a reception allowing the audience to meet and discuss the event with the participants and each other.
400 years of Shared History between the U.S. and The Netherlands, a cause for celebration July 21, 2009 With names like Brooklyn, Wall Street, Kikeout and Flushing, the Dutch settlers of 400 years ago, and their descendants, left a lasting legacy of their settling in the New World. It is believed Dutch was spoken in along the Hudson until well into the 1800s . So in the United States today you can pay for your cookies (not your biscuits), with dollars (from the Dutch 'daalder') and enjoy them on your stoop. Click on the logo of the special NY400 website to stay informed of events.
New York 400 Oyster Party September 10, 2009 On September 13, 2009, it will be precisely 400 years to the day that Henry Hudson discovered Manna-hata. A paradise-like island situated in a natural harbor at the gate to the “New World”. Surrounded by waters full of fish and oysters, the colony New Amsterdam was founded, present day New York. In years to come the oyster would play a significant role here! To celebrate, Slow Food Amsterdam and Slow Food New York will hold an Oyster Party on September 13. For more information download this PDF file, or click here.
The John Adams Institute presents ... September 1, 2009 The John Adams Institute is proud to present two events: Wednesday, September 30, David Simon, creator of the hit TV series The Wire, will be at The Movies, Amsterdam. Mr. Simon will take us scene by scene through an episode of what one newspaper called “broadcast literature.” Thursday, October 1, Saїd Sayrafiezadeh will present his book When Skateboards Will Be Free, at the Bethaniënklooster, also in Amsterdam. Mr. Sayrafiezadeh is the son of an Iranian father and a jewish mother. In his book he describes growing up in the America of the 1970s and 1980s. Click here to get the details of these events (PDF file), including how to reserve tickets. More information is also available from the website of the John Adams Institute.
NYC & Co CEO George Fertitta visits the American Consulate General in Amsterdam  | L-George Fertitta CEO of NYC & Co. delivers
remarks, R-Julie A. Ruterbories |
July 30, 2009 Consul General Julie A. Ruterbories hosted a reception at the Consulate General in honor of NYC & Co CEO George Fertitta’s official visit to the Netherlands. Representatives of the Dutch and American communities, especially those planning events in New York City in September to commemorate New York 400, were present. Earlier in the day, Mr. Fertitta, together with representatives of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the City of Amsterdam spoke with members of the press and the travel industry about the upcoming NY400 events in New York City. For additional information on these events please visit the NY400 website.  | L-R Director of John Adams Institute and author Russell Shorto, Senior VP of NYC & Co. Kimberly Spell, CEO of NYC & Co. George Fertitta, and Consul General Julie A. Ruterbories delivering remarks to her guests. |
Contrary to Recent Reports, Recent VWP Changes Do Not Require All Dutch Travelers to Get Visas July 6, 2009 As of July 1, 2009, all temporary and emergency passports must be electronic passports (e-passports) to be eligible for travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Detailed guidance on the e-passport requirement with regard to temporary and emergency passports can be found on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website. Contrary to some reports in the Dutch press, this requirement does not extend to all passports. Our Visa Wizard, a simple questions-and-answers program, will determine whether your passport meets the requirements of the Visa Waiver Program. To go to our Visa Wizard, click here. A helpful timeline from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that can also assist in determining whether your current Dutch passport is valid for visa-free travel to the U.S. can be found here. If, after consulting this guidance, you determine that your passport does not meet the requirements of the VWP, you will need a visa. Application instructions can be found here.
Amsterdam Wins American Football Championship in Annual Dutch Tulip Bowl July 15, 2009 On what turned out to be a sunny Sunday, the Amsterdam Crusaders trounced the Leiden Lightning 33-7 under the watchful eye of a lazily spinning 13th century Dutch windmill. More than 2,500 mostly Dutch fans watched and learned the nuance of this great American game, while current Buffalo Bills’ back-up quarterback, Gibran Hamdan, announced the game from the sidelines. Consul General Julie Ruterbories also got into the action, presenting the runners-up and champions with their respective trophies. Although the Dutch American Football Federation suffered a severe set-back when NFL Europe folded some years back, the ten first-division teams continue to draw respectable crowds at games and together with the second and third divisions, run numerous youth clinics throughout the country. Under the banner of the New York 400 anniversary celebration, this game provided Dutch fans a glimpse into a fine American tradition.  | |  | Consul General Julie Ruterbories awards
trophy to the winning American football
team, the Amsterdam Crusaders at the
NY400 Tulip Bowl held on Sunday, July
12, 2009 in Barendrecht. | | The Champions Celebrate.
|
Independence Day at the Rijksmuseum
 | Marjorie A. Ames delivers address to
guests gathered at the Rijksmusuem;
Director Wim Pijbes and Minister Frans
Timmermans stand nearby. |
The U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam held its annual Independence Day Celebration on July 1, 2009, at the renowned Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. In commemoration of the New York 400 year, the Rijksmuseum graciously opened its doors to the Consulate General’s guests, both Dutch and American, who were free to view the entire collection on display in the Philips wing. The Netherlands Minister for European Affairs, Frans Timmermans, addressed approximately 300 guests, noting that the relationship between The Netherlands and the United States is “more than friendship.” He went on to say that both nations “share democratic values, both in the past and in the future and make The Netherlands a land where I would like to live.” Rijksmuseum director, Wim Pijbes, also spoke of the friendship between the United States and The Netherlands as well as of the friendship between the Rijksmuseum and the Consulate General. On the occasion, departing Consul General Marjorie A. Ames, who has served for three remarkable years, took the opportunity to bid farewell to many friends and colleagues and to welcome her successor, Julie A. Ruterbories.
Welcome and Farewell at the U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam July 6, 2009 After three years of service Consul General Marjorie A. Ames departed the Consulate General in Amsterdam, welcoming her successor Julie A. Ruterbories. A fond farewell to Ms. Ames and a warm welcome to Consul General Ruterbories from all of us at the Consulate General.  | Departing Consul General Marjorie A. Ames and arriving Consul General Julie A. Ruterbories, pictured at the Consulate General's Independence Day celebration, graciously hosted by the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, on July 1. To read Consul General Ames's Farewell Speech, click here. |
July 1, 2009, VWP Emergency and Temporary passports Must Be E-passports
June 25, 2009 Effective July 1, 2009, all emergency or temporary passports presented for application to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including transit through the United States, must be electronic passports (e-Passports). An e-Passport contains an integrated chip that stores biographic data, a digitized photograph, and other information about the bearer, and is distinguished by a gold-colored symbol on the passport’s front cover. VWP applicants arriving in the United States with a non-compliant passport may be required to undergo further processing and/or denied admission. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may exercise discretion at the ports of entry in cases of medical or other emergency travel. The Customs and Border Protection office website has more information on E-passport requirements.
President of American Chamber of Commerce speaks at Consulate June 22, 2009 Consul General Marjorie Ames and her colleagues welcomed the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Young Professionals to an event at the Consulate General. The guest speaker was the president of AmCham’s board, Raoul Oberman. Mr. Oberman is a director in the Amsterdam office of McKinsey & Company and has been a member of the AmCham board since 2002, taking on the duties of president in 2006. AmCham Young Professionals is a group of pro-active, high potential and highly motivated individuals with a minimum of approximately five years of working experience, in an age-range of about 25-35 years, in their (international) careers at member companies of the American Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands and similarly aligned organizations. Together, the AmCham and the Young Professionals group strive towards the reinforcement of a common cultural and economic heritage between the United States and the Netherlands. For additional information about the American Chamber of Commerce or the Young Professionals, including membership organization, go to: www.amcham.nl. From left to Right: Mr. Freddy Boom, Chairman of the Young Professionals, Christa Oudshoorn-Hobo, Assistant to the Consul General, Consul General Ames, Mr. Raoul Oberman, President of the Board of the AmCham
H1N1 Influenza update June 18, 2009 This message informs U.S. citizens with updates regarding human cases of New Influenza A (H1N1), sometimes referred to as swine flu or Mexican flu. The number of New Influenza A (H1N1) cases in the Netherlands is rising and now includes so-called secondary contamination through contact with recent travelers. Therefore, it is of great importance that people who return from a country with a high number of New Influenza A (H1N1) cases, especially the United States and Mexico, be alert for flu-like symptoms. In case they develop flu-like symptoms and fever (higher than 38 degrees) during or after their journey, they are advised to contact their General Physician (Huisarts). More information ....
Amsterdam discovered by New York photographers May 14, 2009 Consul General Marjorie Ames attended the official opening of a new photography exhibit at the Amsterdam City Archives.To mark the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s discovery of Manhattan, Foam (Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam) is teaming  | Yellow Van, from the series Night
2008 © Carl Wooley
Collectie Stadsarchief |
up with the Amsterdam City Archives and the John Adams Institute to organize an exhibition about Amsterdam, as seen through the eyes of four New York photographers. Gus Powell, Carl Wooley, Richard Rothman and Joshua Lutz were each commissioned to explore a different aspect of the city: the street, the night, the water and the outskirts. This commission has resulted in surprising images, which show an unknown side of Amsterdam. On show at the Amsterdam City Archives until August 23. 2009.
World War Two Remembered in The Netherlands May 4, 2009 Consul General Ames laid flowers at the Nieuwe Oosterbegraafplaats, Amsterdam, in commemoration of the Dutch Memorial Day, May 4. In addition to Dutch and British soldiers, and resistance fighters, four American servicemen are laid to rest here. Later that day Consul General Ames and other members of the Dutch and American Community paid their respects to eight American airmen, buried at Opijnen where their U.S. Army Air Force B-17 'Flying Fortress' bomber crashed after being heavily damaged by German anti-aircraft fire and fighters. For more information about the crew members of this bomber, called Man-O-War, please see: www.awca.nl and www.basher82.nl.  |  | The Nieuwe Oosterbegraafplaats, Amsterdam |  |  | Opijnen |
Consul General Ames answers ESTA Questions  | Consul General Ames answered your
ESTA questions on January 7, 2009. |
January 8, 2009 Effective January 12, 2009 all Visa Waiver Program travelers, including those from the Netherlands, will be required to obtain an electronic travel authorization prior to travel to the United States. Authorization is obtained through the Department of Homeland Security's ESTA program (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). ESTA is only for non-American citizens who wish to visit the United States without a visa. U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents (LPR's) and visa holders do not require an ESTA. In an ongoing effort to inform the public about this program, U.S. Consul General Marjorie Ames conducted a web chat on January 7, 2009, from 15h00 to 16h00. The Consul General answered questions about the ESTA program and offered suggestions for making travel to the U.S. go smoothly. You can read a transcript of this webchat by clicking here (PDF file).
H1N1 influenza Information and visiting the Consulate in Amsterdam May 8, 2009 Persons who require non-emergency consular services and who feel unwell or exhibit flu-like symptoms are encouraged to postpone their business with the Consulate General. Those with pending appointments in the American Citizens Services section may reschedule by clicking here. IV applicants are advised to call 31 (0)20-575-5331. Non-immigrant visa applicants may reschedule appointments free of charge by calling the call center at 31(0)20-794-0808 prior to the appointment date; be sure to have handy the confirmation number you were given when you initially made your appointment. The Consulate has posted it's latest update on the new strain of H1N1 influenza that has been detected in Mexico and the U.S. More information ....
For international travelers: fast border passage in the U.S. and the Netherlands April 23, 2009 The United States welcomes international visitors and we are delighted to work with The Netherlands on the next generation of travel innovation. In bringing together the efforts of Privium and Global Entry, the FLUX alliance provide a terrific new way to address the convenience and security needs of today’s frequent business traveler. This innovative alliance allows safe and quick passage across our borders and offers a bright future for future cooperation between our government and business partners. By facilitating quick and efficient travel through border controls, FLUX brings a new dimension to international travel. Pictures taken at the FLUX press event on 23 April 2009, in New York, can be seen here. A brochure explains in both English and Dutch how travelers can apply for fast border passage at major airports in the U.S. and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol in The Netherlands, under the FLUX alliance. This brochure can be downloaded here in PDF format (1,732 Kb.). And of course there is a FLUX website through which travelers can apply.
Dutch American Friendship Day Celebrated in Amsterdam  | Mayor of Amsterdam Mr. Job Cohen |
April 24, 2009 On April 23, the Consulate General and American Chamber of Commerce supported a business event celebrating Dutch American Friendship Day, which commemorates the date in 1782 that The Netherlands became the first foreign nation to formally acknowledge the existence of the United States by recognizing John Adams as the first U.S. Ambassador to The Hague. The event was hosted by the Amsterdam American Business Club, an organization that strives to improve contacts between people doing business in The Netherlands. In connection with the year-long commemoration of Henry Hudson’s exploration of the Atlantic coast 400 years ago, and the emphasis on shared values between the U.S. and The Netherlands, the theme of this year’s celebration was, “Entrepreneurialism in the 21st Century.” Two hundred Dutch and American business people and entrepreneurs gathered to discuss the current economic situation and how it is affecting business and investment among both Dutch and American businesses. Mayor of Amsterdam Job Cohen delivered the keynote address, which focused on the historic ties between The Netherlands and the United States that originated in the Dutch colony of New Netherlands and flourished particularly in New Amsterdam, later New York. Highlighting the shared values of freedom of expression, tolerance, and entrepreneurialism, Cohen said, “We share the same DNA.” Other speakers included prominent Dutch businessman Henk Keilman, Lt. Col. Fern Sumpter, Commander of the U.S. Army Garrison at Schinnen, and NASA astronaut Steven Smith. Some thirty businesses and organizations, including the Consulate General, participated in a “meet and greet” networking event following the official program where the participants were able to showcase their products and services. To read Mayor Cohen's speech, click here.
Consul General Ames opens Henry Hudson Audio Tour on a bike April 4, 2009 Consul General Marjorie Ames officially opened a special audiotour that was set up to celebrate the start of Henry Hudson's voyage on 4 April 1609. The launch of this special tour through historic Amsterdam in the present day was celebrated at a special event hosted by the Amsterdam Historical Museum that included members of the American community in Amsterdam and other guests. At the opening ceremony, Consul General Ames spoke about the strong ties and shared values between the United States and The Netherlands. She noted that this new initiative, along with the many other events commemorating the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s voyage, are important in bringing history to life, and in informing Dutch and American people about the unique relationship between the two countries that extends to the present day. The Amsterdam Historical Museum has set up this special audiotour which marks the beginning of four hundred years of commercial contact between New York and the Netherlands. The tour takes you along a number of historical sites in the center of Amsterdam and tells the fascinating story of the city at the time when Hudson set sail from Amsterdam's harbor. You can hire a mobile set at the entrance of the Amsterdam Historical Museum. The audiotour (appr. 1 1/2 hour) starts and finishes at the Amsterdam Historical Museum. You can also listen to the tour via your mobile phone.(Text AHM to 5040).
Link: http://en.ahm.nl/nl/home-ahm-en/museum-visit/audio-tour (AHM© / Henk Rougoor)
Amsterdam New York Celebration at the Westerkerk, Amsterdam  | Replica of Henry Hudson's
vessel in New York's Harbor. |
On April 4, the day Henry Hudson set sail from The Netherlands in 1609 on an historic journey during which he explored what would become New York City and the Hudson River Valley, the John Adams Institute celebrated the 400 years old relationship between Amsterdam and New York with a special event at the Westerkerk. Speakers included Russell Shorto, Geert Mak, Frans Timmermans (State Secretary for Foreign Affairs), Sam Roberts (New York Times reporter), Ruth Oldenziel (American specialist at Eindhoven University), Beth Fertig (New York Broadcaster), and Consul General Marjorie Ames. The discussion was moderated by Twan Huys. Additional information is available on the John Adams Institute website. Consul General Ames’s remarks (as prepared for delivery) …
U.S. Consul General Marjorie Ames was present when Prime Minister, Jan Peter Balkenende, struck the first coin of the “Manhattan Fiver”. 
| from left to right: Secretary of State for Finance Jan Kees de Jager, Designer and Artist, Ronald van Tienhoven, Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende, and Director of the Royal Dutch Mint Maarten T. Brouwer. To read the accompanying press release, click here. |
New Comprehensive IRS Guidance for Americans overseas March 20, 2009 The Internal Revenue Service has created a new comprehensive tax page which is directed to U.S. citizens who reside abroad. This page contains basic tax information that Americans overseas need to know and also includes links to more detailed topics such as the foreign earned income exclusion, foreign tax credit, reporting foreign bank accounts, fulbright grants, state taxes, and a myriad of others. Rather than navigating through www.irs.gov, this page will provide "one stop shopping" for U.S. citizens abroad. The intent is to provide answers to most of their tax questions in one place. The site also provides information on how to contact the IRS to get additional assistance. Click here to go directly to the new IRS page for U.S. citizens overseas.
Holland America Friendship Foundation gala  | Consul General Ames with (from left to
right) Dutch Minister for European Affairs
Frans Timmermans, First Lady of the
State of New York Michelle Paige-Patterson
and Dutch Minister of Education Ronald
Plasterk at the Night of the Stars
Photo Credit: Anko Stoffels |
April 1, 2009 The Holland America Friendship Foundation (HAFF) hosted a gala celebration launching this year’s celebration of the 400-year relationship between the Netherlands and the U.S. Held in the historic Ridderzaal in The Hague, the evening featured and performances by American violinist Hailey Wolffe and Dutch jazz sensation Giovanca. Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxime Verhagen delivered a moving tribute to the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries. He, Chargé d’Affaires Michael Gallagher and HAFF Chairman Buford Alexander officially opened the Henry Hudson year of commemorations with a toast to the enduring friendship between the U.S. and The Netherlands. Minister for European Affairs Frans Timmermans in his remarks noted that the two countries share a ” zeal for liberty … a craving for opportunity ... and a passion for morality, specifically tolerance (you saw it in Amsterdam and NY 400 years ago and still today).” Education Minister Ronald Plasterk announced the creation of two new Fulbright scholarships funded by the U.S. and Dutch Governments as well as the HAFF and the Netherlands America Foundation in the United States, that will encourage scholars to focus on this unique relationship. An auction raised more than 120,000 euros, including 60,000 euros from G-Star and Heineken to establish two new scholarships.
Amsterdam New York 400 Evening in Oude Kerk April 7 March 31, 2009 The Oude Kerk in Amsterdam invites Americans and non-Americans alike, to attend an “Amsterdam-New York Evening” – the last of the “New York Nights” events, on Tuesday, April 7, 2009. For that purpose the program is available here as PDF file. The organisers would appreciate to let them know whether you are coming. This can be done by simply sending an e-mail to: info@oudekerk.nl, to the attention of Ms. Mirjam Jalving. The Oude Kerk is spectacular on any day or night but this promises to be something extra special indeed, so check out that program.
Additional Visa Pages for U.S. Passports available again March 26, 2009 The Consulate had to report on March 19, that temporarily no additional visa pages for U.S. passports were available. We are happy to now announce that we can once again provide this service to our customers. For details on how to apply for additional visa pages, click here.
Carrier Liaison Program (CLP) Updated — The Six-Month Club March 9, 2009 The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released an update regarding visitor entry requirements. Visitors traveling to the United States are required to be in possession of passports that are valid for six months beyond the period of their intended stay in the United States. Citizens of certain countries however, are exempt from this 'Six-Month' rule and need only have a passport valid for their intended period of stay. Click here for a PDF version of the entire list of 'Six-Month Club Members'. Note that The Netherlands is on this list, so Dutch passports do not have to be valid for another six months when leaving the U.S. after a visit. It is sufficient for Dutch passports to be valid for the duration of the planned visit. See also the website of the Customs and Border Protection.
International Women's Day March 8, 2009 Remarks by Hillary Rodham Clinton, Secretary of State, Washington, DC "On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2009, I am proud to honor women around the world who are blazing trails and surmounting obstacles in pursuit of equality and opportunity. Although you may not know their names or recognize their faces, these women advocates are hard at work in every country and on every continent, seeking to fulfill their right to participate fully in the political, economic and cultural lives of their societies. Often working against great odds and at great personal sacrifice, they are a key to global progress in this new century and deserve our admiration and support. More ....
IRS cancels Overseas Tax Assistance Program for 2009 February 6, 2008 The Internal Revenue Service has canceled its assistance program for U.S. citizens overseas. This means there will be no tax advisor visiting the Consulate General in Amsterdam this year. The IRS has however published a brochure with helpful websites and guidance: Federal Tax Information for U.S. Taxpayers Living Abroad. More information and guidance can also be found through the IRS office in Frankfurt, Germany. For contact information, please see our tax information page.
American Chargé Speaks at Schiphol Memorial Service March 7, 2009 The American Chargé Michael Gallagher, spoke in honor of the victims of the crashed Turkish Airlines flight TK 1951 of February 25. The memorial service was held this Saturday, for survivors, next of kin and those involved in the rescue and recovery operations. The Chargé's remarks can be found on the website of our Embassy in The Hague.
Additional Visa Pages for U.S. Passports available again March 4, 2009 The Consulate had to report on February 23, that temporarily no additional visa pages for U.S. passports were available. We are happy to now announce that we can once again provide this service to our customers. For details on how to apply for additional visa pages, click here.
Update on Turkish Airlines Accident at Amsterdam’s Schiphol International Airport February 27, 2009 (08h00 GMT) - Dutch officials announced yesterday that four U.S. citizens were among the nine passengers and crew who died in a Turkish Airlines accident on the morning of February 25. The plane, en route from Istanbul, landed short of the runway at Schiphol Airport near Amsterdam. The U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam and the U.S. Department of State have been in contact with family members of the U.S. citizen passengers. Due to privacy considerations we can not provide further details. Dutch officials had previously announced that seven U.S. citizens were onboard the plane. As of February 27, the U.S. Department of State has only been able to confirm the presence of six U.S. citizens onboard but is investigating reports claiming other U.S. citizens were onboard. We encourage concerned family and friends of those who may have been on board flight number TK 1951 to contact Turkish Airlines' passenger information center at: + 90 800 219 8035. Turkish Airlines will release further information on the Turkish Airlines' website, at: www.thy.com. Additional information also may be available from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport's hotline number: +31 023 567 6387 and at +31 0900 1852.
Turkish Airlines Accident Near Schiphol Airport February 26, 2009 At 10:31 a.m. local time yesterday, February 25, 2009, Turkish Airlines Flight TK1951 from Istanbul to Amsterdam landed short of the runway at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. The U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam is working to locate U.S. citizens who were passengers on the plane. The Consulate General will be in direct contact with families of U.S. citizen passengers as soon as possible. In response to the incident, Consular officers have been dispatched to the airport, the passenger assembly point and to area hospitals. We encourage concerned family and friends of those who may have been on board flight number TK 1951 to contact Turkish Airlines' passenger information center at: + 90 800 219 8035. Turkish Airlines will release further information on the Turkish Airlines' website, at: www.thy.com. Additional information also may be available from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport's hotline number: +31 023 567 6387 and at +31 0900 1852. Press Statement from Press Conference in Haarlemmermeer on February 26 …
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
Additional Visa pages for U.S. passports temporarily not available February 23, 2009 The Consulate in Amsterdam temporarily cannot help you with additional visa pages in your passport. We hope to be able to provide this service again as soon as possible. The nearest U.S. Foreign Service post providing this service is our Embassy in Brussels, Belgium. For other alternative consulates or embassies, please click here. We do apologize for the inconvenience.
Project Manager New York 400, Dutch Ambassador Niehe, speaks to American Women's Club of Amsterdam  | | Ambassador Eric Niehe |
February 5, 2009 Ambassador Eric Niehe of The Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs spoke to members of the American Women’s Club of Amsterdam and their spouses regarding this year’s New York 400 celebration hosted by the U.S. Consulate General. This special event was arranged as part of a series focusing on issues of interest to professional women living and working in the Amsterdam area.
April 2009 marks 400 years since Captain Henry Hudson departed Amsterdam on a Dutch East India Company ship, the Halve Maen (Half Moon). That September, Hudson sailed up the New York River that now bears his name. Hudson's voyage attracted Dutch traders to the area, leading to the establishment of diverse, relatively tolerant settlements: New Amsterdam and the New Netherland colony. Ambassador Niehe not only reiterated our shared history but also the common values that both the Dutch and Americans enjoy, namely— the entrepreneurial spirit, diversity, tolerance, and openness. There will be myriad events in Amsterdam and New York throughout the year. The two flagship weeks will occur on April 1-6 in Amsterdam entitled New York Nights and September 8-13 in New York coinciding with the times Hudson departed Amsterdam and arrived in what became New York Harbor. Consul General Marjorie Ames encourages Americans and their families to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to attend the many events being offered in Amsterdam and to engage in discussions about the present and future of the relationship between the U.S. and The Netherlands. Among the upcoming events are: - a special exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum called Van Gogh and the Colours of the Night including the painting, The Starry Night, on loan from The Museum of Modern Art, New York;
- a historic walk perfect for a family outing through Amsterdam;
- the Pioneers! conference which will bring together a group of 40 selected Pioneers-today's cutting edge thinkers, entrepreneurs and representatives of diverse professional fields for a transatlantic dialogue into the frontiers of civic engagement and social entrepreneurship in Amsterdam and New York City.
And much more. For more information on NY400 events see:www.ny400.nl. For additional information about the American Women’s Club of Amsterdam see: www.awca.nl.
Amsterdam Celebrates Obama’s Inauguration  | The Oude Kerk flies the U.S.
Flag. |
January 20, 2009 In honor of the inauguration of President Barack Obama, the Oude Kerk (the oldest building in Amsterdam dating back to 1260) flew an American flag from its clock tower and conducted a special carillon concert of American songs, including Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever” and a medley of Gershwin classics. This was only the second time in the 700+ year history of the church that an American flag had flown from the tower. The director arranged for a special tour of the church highlighting the historic ties between the U.S. and The Netherlands that was attended by members of the American community and representatives from the Consulate General and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. That evening, Amsterdam’s Mayor Job Cohen and city council, along with Minister for European Affairs Frans Timmermans and Consul General Marjorie Ames hosted an inauguration event at the Mayor’s official residence. In addition to Charge d’Affaires Jim Foster and other representatives from the U.S. Embassy in The Hague and the Dutch Foreign Ministry, leaders from the Dutch and American business and cultural communities and the media gathered to watch the inauguration ceremony and discuss the international goodwill and hope for engagement kindled by the new Administration. In his remarks, Minister Timmermans emphasized the need for American leadership in cooperation with its allies in these challenging times and stressed the values shared by the U.S. and The Netherlands. Numerous public events celebrating President Obama’s inauguration took place throughout Amsterdam. Remarks by Consul General Ames at Mayor Cohen’s residence … Photos from the Inauguration event (PDF file. Photographer Edwin van Eis, City of Amsterdam)
Carillon Inauguration Concert January 20 January 15, 2009 Amsterdam’s Oude kerk is hosting a Carillon Concert in Honor of the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States of America, Barack H. Obama to be held in the heart of Amsterdam on Tuesday, January 20, 2009 from 2:00 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Gideon Bodden will play an impressive program by American composers on the Oude Kerk’s carillon including The Stars and Stripes Forever by John Philip Sousa and Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin. On behalf of the Stichting Oude Kerk, all are welcome to listen to this open air concert and visit the oldest building in Amsterdam’s historical center. 2009 commemorates 400 years of uninterrupted friendship between the United States and The Netherlands and specifically New York and Amsterdam. In 1609, Henry Hudson was commissioned by the Dutch East India Company to find a new route to Asia. His famous voyage resulted in the founding of New Netherland and New Amsterdam. Come and celebrate the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States at one of Amsterdam’s most prominent historic sites. More information provided by de Stichting de Oude Kerk: Concert Program - History Oude Kerk (PDF files).
Vakantiebeurs 2009, January 14 through 18  | | Utrecht, Vakantiebeurs 2009 |
January 15, 2009 Each year the city of Utrecht hosts the Vakantiebeurs, a huge Holiday Fair offering a host of tourist information and travel ideas. And each year the American Consulate General, Amsterdam, has a representative at the Fair to answer questions about U.S. visas, entry requirements, etc. This year the new Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) was of course the main topic. Together with colleagues from the Custom and Border Protection office (CBP), the consular representative informed the public about ESTA in English and Dutch. The first day of the Fair was very well attended. Both CBP and the Consulate will have staff at the Fair until it closes on Sunday, January 18. The Vakantiebeurs is being held at the Jaarbeurs in Utrecht and you will find more information about it under this link. Tourist information for the United States is provided by See America. More information on ESTA is available elsewhere on this page.
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