Cultural goods (arts, antiques)

Publication date 02-09-2025 | Last update 05-12-2025 | Information page

You are not allowed to freely carry, import, export, or ship cultural goods (such as art and antiques) across EU borders without a valid import or export permit.

Examples of art objects and antiques:

• paintings
• prints
• mosaics
• old documents and books
• archaeological items
• manuscripts
• geographical maps
• archives
• designer jewellery
• furniture

If merchants abroad offer you extremely low prices for cultural goods, it is likely that the items are illegal or counterfeit.

Bringing art into the Netherlands

Bringing art or antiques into the Netherlands or the European Union (EU) is not always allowed. Before shipping or carrying items across the border, check if you need an import or export permit. Whether an item is considered a cultural good often depends on its age and value. If you are unsure, you can ask a government office for advice

Where you can ask for advice

• the Dutch embassy in the country where you purchase the art object
• the Customs Administration of the country where you purchase the art object
• the Ministry of Culture of the country where you purchase the art object
• (in the Netherlands): the State Inspectorate for Cultural Heritage

Moving goods within the EU

Are you travelling within the EU? Some rules and restrictions also apply to certain goods.

Want to learn more?

visit the website of the Information and Heritage Inspectorate.