Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide

The Netherlands is known for having one of the most efficient and accessible healthcare systems in the world. At the heart of this system lies a mandatory health insurance model that ensures all residents and workers have access to high-quality medical care. While the Dutch healthcare system is primarily privatized, it is tightly regulated by the government to guarantee affordability, accessibility, and transparency for everyone. This article explores the structure, costs, coverage, and unique features of health insurance in the Netherlands, providing essential insights for both residents and expatriates.

1. The Dutch Healthcare System: An Overview

The Dutch healthcare system is based on a dual-level approach:

• Basic health insurance (basisverzekering): Mandatory for all residents and workers.

• Supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering): Optional, offering extra coverage for services not included in the basic package.

The system combines private insurance companies with public oversight, creating a competitive market that aims to drive efficiency while maintaining universal access. The Dutch government determines the content of the basic package, ensuring that all providers offer the same core benefits.

2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?

Yes. Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is legally required to have basic health insurance, even if they already have international health insurance or travel insurance. This applies to Dutch citizens, EU/EEA residents, and non-EU expatriates who obtain a residence permit.

Children under 18 must also be insured, but their premiums are covered by the government, making health insurance free for minors. Parents or guardians still need to register their children with a health insurer.

Failure to obtain insurance within four months of registration in the Netherlands can result in fines and back payments.

3. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

There are over 30 health insurance providers in the Netherlands, including major names such as:

• CZ

• Menzis

• VGZ

• Zilveren Kruis

• OHRA

While all companies offer the same basic coverage, they differ in monthly premiums, customer service quality, additional packages, and contract flexibility. Consumers are free to switch providers once per year during the open enrollment period (usually in November and December), with the new policy taking effect on January 1st.

Comparison websites like Independer, Zorgwijzer, and Zorgkiezer are commonly used to compare health insurance options and find the best value.

4. What Does Basic Health Insurance Cover?

The basic health insurance package is extensive and covers a wide range of essential medical services, including:

• Visits to general practitioners (GPs)

• Specialist consultations

• Hospital care and surgeries

• Emergency care

• Prescription medication (most common drugs)

• Mental healthcare

• Maternity and midwife care

• Physiotherapy (limited)

• Medical aids (wheelchairs, prosthetics, etc.)

• Ambulance services

• Preventive screenings

Basic insurance does not cover certain services, such as:

• Dental care for adults

• Alternative treatments (homeopathy, acupuncture)

• Extensive physiotherapy

• Cosmetic procedures

• Glasses and contact lenses

These services are typically included in supplementary insurance policies.

5. How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?

Monthly Premiums

As of 2025, the average monthly premium for basic health insurance ranges between €120 and €150, depending on the provider and deductible option. This means an individual could pay between €1,440 and €1,800 annually for basic insurance alone.

Deductible (Eigen Risico)

The mandatory deductible for 2025 is €385 per year. This means that for most non-GP medical treatments (e.g., hospital stays, specialist visits, some medications), you must first pay out-of-pocket up to this amount before insurance begins to cover costs. You can voluntarily increase your deductible up to €885 to reduce your monthly premium.

GP visits, maternity care, and some chronic condition treatments are exempt from the deductible.

Government Subsidies (Zorgtoeslag)

Lower-income individuals may be eligible for a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) to help cover their insurance costs. The amount depends on income level, assets, and family size. Applications can be made through the Dutch Tax Office (Belastingdienst).

6. Supplementary Insurance: Is It Worth It?

Supplementary insurance offers coverage for services excluded from the basic package, such as:

• Dental treatments for adults

• Additional physiotherapy sessions

• Glasses and contacts

• Alternative therapies

• Global medical coverage

Premiums vary widely depending on the level of coverage, but they typically range from €10 to €50 per month. These policies are not government-regulated, and insurers can refuse coverage based on medical history or age.

For people with specific health needs, such as ongoing physiotherapy or dental issues, supplementary insurance may be financially beneficial. For young, healthy individuals, it might not be necessary.

7. Accessing Care: How the System Works

Step 1: Register with a GP (Huisarts)

The GP is your first point of contact in the Dutch healthcare system. They handle routine care, diagnostics, and referrals to specialists. It’s essential to register with a local GP as soon as you receive health insurance.

Step 2: Specialist Referrals

If you need specialized treatment (e.g., cardiology, dermatology), your GP will refer you to a specialist. Without a referral, insurance may not cover the costs.

Step 3: Emergency Services

In life-threatening situations, you can call 112 or go to the emergency room (SEH). For non-urgent care outside regular hours, huisartsenposten (out-of-hours GP clinics) are available.

8. Health Insurance for Expats and Students

Expats working in the Netherlands are subject to the same rules as Dutch residents. However, short-term visitors, students, or cross-border workers may have different requirements:

• EU/EEA students can often use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

• Non-EU students may need to purchase private insurance or Dutch insurance if they begin working.

• Tourists should rely on travel insurance for emergencies.

Always check with your local municipality and the SVB (Social Insurance Bank) to determine your obligations.

9. Changing or Canceling Your Policy

You can only change your health insurance policy once a year (between November 15 and December 31). Cancellation or switching is allowed during this window. Outside of this period, changes are only permitted in specific cases, such as:

• Moving to or from the Netherlands

• Turning 18

• Getting divorced or changing family status

10. Pros and Cons of the Dutch Health Insurance System

Pros:

• Universal access to high-quality care

• Choice between providers and plans

• Transparent costs and regulated benefits

• Financial assistance for low-income individuals

• Free insurance for children

Cons:

• High out-of-pocket costs for some services

• Complex for newcomers to understand

• Mandatory nature may feel restrictive

• Supplementary insurance can be expensive

Conclusion

Health insurance in the Netherlands is a cornerstone of the country's well-functioning healthcare system. Though mandatory and sometimes expensive, the Dutch model ensures that everyone has access to high-quality care without long waiting times. For residents and expatriates alike, understanding how the system works—from choosing a provider to navigating deductibles—can make a significant difference in both financial and personal wellbeing.

Whether you're moving to the Netherlands permanently or staying temporarily, getting the right health insurance is not just a legal requirement—it's a smart step toward protecting your health and peace of mind.