Ordering free COVID self-tests

The Dutch government has announced that between 10 August and 1 September, you can order two free COVID-19 self-tests.

Self-testing is an important means of detecting asymptomatic infections. So before going back to work or university after the summer break, or even before attending a BBQ with friends, taking a self-test offers peace of mind and can prevent transmission of the virus.

How does it work? Between 10 August and 1 September 2021 you will receive a letter from the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) at your home address. The letter explains that you can order 2 free COVID self-tests via zelftestenbestellen.nl. You can use a self-test to find out whether you are infected with coronavirus. This will prevent you unknowingly transmitting the virus to other people when you mix with them after the summer break. For example, if you’re going back to work or school after returning from a holiday.

Getting vaccinated remains the safest choice to prevent getting ill of COVID-19. Have you not been vaccinated against COVID-19 yet but do you want to? From 17 August 2021, it is possible to go to the vaccination locations in Haarlem and Haarlemmermeer without an appointment for your first corona vaccine dose. Read more about the pop in vaccination locations.

4 steps for ordering self-tests

Follow these 4 steps to order your 2 free self-tests:

1. 1. 1. Go to the website zelftestenbestellen.nl (you can select an English version of the website in the top right corner) and fill in the unique code given in your letter. Click ‘Send code’. Or scan the QR code in your letter.
      2. Enter your postcode. The website will check whether the code from your letter matches your postcode.
      3. Tick the box to confirm you want to order 2 free self-tests.

    

   More information about COVID self-tests

   1. 1. • For more information about why self-tests are necessary, visit the page on the purpose of the self-tests (in Dutch only).
         • For more information on how to use self-tests, visit the page on using the test and interpreting the results  (in Dutch only).
         • For more information on when to use a self-test and when to make an appointment to get tested by the municipal health service (GGD), visit the page on when you should and should not use a self-test (in Dutch only).
         • If you want to know which self-tests are suitable for use – for example, if you want to buy them yourself at the pharmacy or supermarket – visit the page on suitable self-tests (in Dutch only).

   [Source: The government of the Netherlands]

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   This is an ongoing situation and it is advisable to check the websites of the relevant authorities to obtain the most up-to-date information.

   To keep updated with advice from the government and the RIVM, head to:

   http://government.nl/coronavirus

   https://www.rivm.nl/en/novel-coronavirus-covid-19