Safety in Amsterdam — Complete Guide for Expats (2026)
Amsterdam has a safety rating of 8.5/10, making it a very safe city by global standards. Violent crime against expats is rare, and most neighborhoods popular with foreigners are well-policed and secure..
Common Safety Concerns
Petty Crime
Petty crime (pickpocketing, phone snatching) is relatively rare in Amsterdam. Standard precautions — keeping valuables secure in crowded areas, not leaving phones on restaurant tables — are sufficient.
Night Safety
Generally very safe to walk at night in most neighborhoods. Even women walking alone late at night report feeling secure. Standard awareness applies.
Scams Targeting Foreigners
Common scams in Amsterdam that expats should be aware of:
- Taxi/transport overcharging: Less common, but always use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps with fixed prices.
- Rental scams: Never transfer deposit money before seeing an apartment in person. Fake listings on popular platforms are a widespread problem globally.
- Fake police/officials: Real police will never ask for your credit card or cash payment on the street. If stopped, ask to see ID and offer to accompany them to a police station.
- ATM skimming: Use ATMs inside banks during business hours. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Use contactless payment where possible.
Emergency Information
Emergency number: 112 (EU-wide emergency number) Save this in your phone and share your location with a trusted contact.
Health & Safety Infrastructure
Hospitals and emergency services in Amsterdam are reliable and responsive. Keep a note of the nearest hospital to your accommodation. If you have health conditions, register with a local doctor within your first week. Always carry your health insurance card or policy number.
Neighborhood-Specific Safety
Safety varies by neighborhood. The areas recommended in our neighborhoods guide are all considered safe for expats. For up-to-date safety information on specific streets and areas, ask in local expat Facebook groups — the community is usually very responsive about safety questions.
Insurance Recommendations
Comprehensive health and travel insurance is essential regardless of how safe a city is. Accidents, illness, and theft can happen anywhere. See our healthcare guide for insurance options.