Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide
The Dutch healthcare system is widely regarded as one of the best in the world. It combines universal access with high-quality care and a well-organized insurance structure. Health insurance in the Netherlands is not only mandatory for residents but also central to how healthcare is accessed and paid for. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Dutch health insurance system—from how it works, the types of insurance, costs, benefits, and how to choose the right provider.
1. Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System
The Netherlands operates a dual-level health insurance system that consists of:
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Zorgverzekering (Basic Health Insurance): Mandatory for all residents and long-term visitors.
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Supplementary Insurance: Optional and offered by private insurers to cover services not included in the basic package.
This system is regulated by the government but provided by private insurance companies, creating a unique blend of public oversight and private delivery.
2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?
Yes. Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is required by law to have basic health insurance (basisverzekering). This includes:
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Dutch citizens
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Expats residing in the Netherlands
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Foreign workers and students (under certain conditions)
Failure to obtain insurance within four months of registering in the Netherlands can result in fines and retroactive premium charges.
3. What Does Basic Health Insurance Cover?
The Dutch government determines the content of the basic health insurance package every year. The coverage is extensive and includes:
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General practitioner (GP) visits
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Specialist care (with referral)
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Hospital treatment and surgeries
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Prescription medications
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Maternity care
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Mental healthcare
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Emergency services
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Dental care for children under 18
Preventive care such as vaccinations and screenings is also included.
4. What Is Not Covered by Basic Insurance?
The basic insurance does not cover:
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Adult dental care
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Physiotherapy (unless for chronic conditions)
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Glasses and contact lenses
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Cosmetic treatments
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Alternative medicine
These services can be covered under supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering), which is not mandatory and varies widely by provider.
5. How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in the Netherlands?
The cost of health insurance consists of two parts:
a. Monthly Premium (Premie)
On average, the basic monthly premium in 2025 is between €130 – €150 per person. The actual price depends on the provider and the plan chosen.
b. Compulsory Deductible (Eigen Risico)
This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket each year before the insurer starts covering costs, excluding GP visits and maternity care. In 2025, the minimum deductible is €385, but you can choose to increase it (up to €885) to lower your monthly premium.
6. Government Support and Subsidies (Zorgtoeslag)
If your income is below a certain threshold, you may be eligible for a healthcare allowance from the Dutch government, known as zorgtoeslag. This helps offset the cost of monthly premiums. The amount depends on:
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Your income
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Your assets
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Whether you have a partner
Applications can be made through the Dutch tax office (Belastingdienst).
7. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider
There are over 30 insurance providers in the Netherlands, all offering the same basic coverage but differing in:
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Premiums
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Customer service
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Hospital networks
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Supplementary insurance options
Popular insurers include:
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Zilveren Kruis
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VGZ
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CZ
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Menzis
When choosing a provider, it’s important to compare:
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Cost vs. coverage
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Preferred hospitals and doctors
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Digital tools and apps
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English-language support (for expats)
8. Types of Policies: Restitutie vs. Natura
There are two main types of basic policies:
a. Natura Policy
You receive care only from healthcare providers contracted by your insurer. The insurer pays directly, and you have limited provider choice.
b. Restitutie Policy
You can choose any provider, even if they’re not contracted. You pay upfront and are later reimbursed. These plans are slightly more expensive.
There are also combi-policies which combine both models.
9. How to Apply for Dutch Health Insurance
Once you register in the Netherlands and receive a BSN number (citizen service number), follow these steps:
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Compare health insurers online (via websites like Independer.nl).
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Choose your insurer and preferred policy.
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Apply online or by phone.
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Receive your health insurance card (zorgpas) and policy documents.
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Start paying your monthly premiums.
Your insurance is valid retroactively from the day you became a resident.
10. Health Insurance for Expats and Students
a. Expats
If you're employed in the Netherlands, you must take out Dutch health insurance even if you have an international policy.
b. Students
EU/EEA students may be exempt if they’re not working. Non-EU students must check their visa conditions. Some can keep their private international health insurance.
11. Termination and Switching Providers
You can switch providers once per year, during the annual switching period (overstapperiode) from November 12 to December 31. The new policy starts on January 1.
Cancellations outside this period are only allowed in special situations, such as moving abroad or losing a job.
12. What Happens if You Don't Get Insurance?
Not having valid insurance is taken seriously. The CAK (Central Administration Office) monitors compliance. If you remain uninsured:
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You’ll get a warning letter.
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After 3 months, you’ll be fined.
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If still uninsured, the CAK will enroll you in a policy and deduct premiums from your salary.
13. Tips to Save on Health Insurance
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Compare providers every year.
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Increase your deductible to reduce premiums.
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Pay annually instead of monthly (some providers offer a discount).
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Check eligibility for healthcare allowance.
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Join collective insurance through your employer or student union.
14. Healthcare Access in Practice
With insurance in place, most people access care via their general practitioner (huisarts). The GP acts as a gatekeeper to specialist care. Appointments are generally available within a few days, and emergency care is accessible 24/7.
Conclusion
Health insurance in the Netherlands is a structured, well-regulated system that ensures everyone has access to essential healthcare. While it may seem complex at first—especially for newcomers—the combination of mandatory coverage, government oversight, and private competition results in a high-performing system. By understanding how it works, comparing providers, and knowing your rights, you can make the most of the Dutch healthcare experience while keeping costs under control.
Whether you’re a resident, student, or expat, having the right health insurance in place will not only protect your health but also keep you compliant with Dutch law.