In every country, there are different rules and laws when it comes to tattooing. Some young people even go abroad to get their first tattoo because it’s not allowed in their country at their age. How is it in the Netherlands? How Old Do You Have To Be To Get a Tattoo in Amsterdam?
It’s forbidden to tattoo children under the age of 12. Young people from 12 to 16 years old are only allowed a tattoo with the permission of the parents, guardians, who must be present when the tattoo is done. Young people of 16 years and older can decide for themselves whether to have a tattoo.
The Netherlands has always been a country of freedom. There is no other country in Europe where you can get a tattoo when you are 12. In the Netherlands, it is allowed. In Spain, you can get a tattoo when you are 14 but it depends on the region of Spain. In other countries of Europe, you must be at least 16 or 18 to get a tattoo. In this article, I explain rules for those who want to get a tattoo in the Netherlands at a young age.
Rules of Getting a Tattoo For Young People
- It is forbidden to apply a tattoo or piercing to children under 12 years of age. A piercing in the ear lobe is allowed.
- Young people from 12 to 16 years old are only allowed a tattoo with the permission of the parents (or guardian). The parents must be present when the tattoo or piercing is done.
- Young people from 12 to 16 years old are not allowed to have a tattoo on the head, neck, wrists or hands.
- Young people of 16 years and older can decide for themselves whether to have a tattoo or piercing.
Information in this article comes from governmental website. You can read more about it here, but it’s in Dutch.
If You are 16 and You Want To Get A Tattoo You Need a valid Dutch or EU or International identity card or passport. Before you will be tattooed, a copy of your identity card is needed. If you are younger than 16 years old, your parents have to sign a form of approval.
Why You Shouldn’t Take a Tattoo Under 18?
It’s not about taking the wrong decisions, or maybe there is something in it. But in general, the reason behind not getting a tattoo at a young age is your health.
You shouldn’t get tattooed under the age of 16 because your skin is still developing and it’s highly probable that your tattoo will quickly fade. It will look bad in a short period of time. Better wait until you are at least 18 years old. You will live the whole of your life with a tattoo, so it’s better to wait now a little bit so you can be happy with a good looking tattoo for a longer period of time. It’s also a waste of money if you have to cover it in the future.
Where Can You Get a Tattoo In Europe at 16?
| Minimum Age | Countries in Europe |
| 16 | Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Sweden |
| 18 | Denmark, Finland, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, United Kingdom |
| No Legislation | Belgium, Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary, Slovenia |
Is It Safe To Get A Tattoo in Amsterdam?
It’s safe to get a tattoo in Amsterdam within experienced and well-reviewed tattoo artist. Because of high prices you may be searching for some cheap options. Avoid that, and always choose a quality artist. In general, most studios are clean and professional. See for yourself if the studio is clean and well organized. Make sure that tattoo artist you have chosen have a valid tattoo license.
How Much Does a Tattoo Cost In Amsterdam?
The price of the tattoo is greatly influenced by the location of the tattoo studio. In the city center, prices are much higher. In Amsterdam, you can expect to pay even 200 Euros per hour. Surely you can find cheaper options. Keep in mind that you should tip a tattoo artist.
Wrap Up
You can get a tattoo in Amsterdam without anyone’s permission at the age of 16. If you are 12 or older you need your parent’s approval. The question is: Should you get a tattoo at this young age? I would avoid it and wait till 18 and it’s only because of esthetics. By the age of 18 your tattoo can be stretched and of poor quality.
