Import and Export of Cultural Objects brochure

The import and export of cultural goods is bound to European and international legislation on the protection of cultural heritage. Since 1993 a system of EU export licenses is in force for  special categories of cultural goods and the protection of cultural heritage was enlarged in 2009 when the Netherlands became a Party to the 1970 UNESCO Convention.

In this revised brochure (September 2022) on the import and export of cultural goods you may find information and advice, for example when you consider the buying and selling of cultural objects, or if you want to apply for an export license.

The brochure is adapted to the new Heritage Act which came into force in the Netherlands in July 2016.

This page has been updated on September 2022.