A guide to the export and import of cultural goods between Russia ...

The Netherlands
Chapter 3: European Union Member States
mine which cultural objects require licences. Therefore, if the age, value or other determinants
need to be assessed, the cultural object may have to be inspected.
The CDIU states that it generally only receives applications for cultural objects valued
above the thresholds and that the valuation provided with the application (such as an
invoice) is acceptable. If there are any doubts on the value, for instance from the customs
authorities at Schiphol Airport, they can request information from the State Inspectorate
for Cultural Heritage.
Which customs authorities are empowered to deal with the export of cultural goods?
All customs authorities in the Netherlands deal with the export of cultural goods.
What other paperwork do I need to export a cultural object?
When you leave the Netherlands, you must show the export licence.
When you enter Russia, you must show all the relevant documentation and declare the object
at customs, passing through the Red channel. See Chapter 4 for further information.
What are the penalties if I do something wrong?
Anyone who exports cultural goods from the Netherlands without the necessary licence
can be convicted under the Economic Crimes Act with penalties ranging from fines, imprisonment
and confiscation of goods.
Are there any special export restrictions on certain objects or other considerations I should
know about?
The Netherlands has set up an agency called Herkomst Gezocht (Origins Unknown) to
deal with the recuperation of art works which were sold, stolen or confiscated during
World War II. The website: http://www.herkomstgezocht.nl has reports on the work of the
agency and other useful information including a database of art objects which have come
into the custody of the Dutch State, known as the NK Collection.
Further information on restitution claims and procedures can be found at:
http://www.netherlands-embassy.ru/downloads/restitution.pdf
What are the requirements if I want to import cultural goods into the Netherlands from
Russia?
No special formalities for the import of cultural goods are reported although you are advised
to check your situation with the Dutch customs authorities.
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