Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide
The Netherlands is widely recognized for having one of the most efficient and accessible healthcare systems in the world. Central to this system is its unique approach to health insurance, which combines private competition with public regulation. For residents, including expatriates, understanding how Dutch health insurance works is essential for living in the country legally and ensuring access to necessary medical care.
1. Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System
The Dutch healthcare system is based on the principle of universal coverage and accessibility. All residents are required by law to have basic health insurance (basisverzekering), which covers essential medical care. The system is a hybrid model: health insurance is provided by private insurers, but the government strictly regulates the basic coverage and pricing mechanisms to ensure fairness and accessibility.
2. Mandatory Health Insurance
In the Netherlands, it is mandatory for everyone living or working in the country to have health insurance. This includes Dutch citizens, permanent residents, and expatriates who are registered with the municipality and have a BSN number (citizen service number).
Who Must Be Insured?
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Dutch nationals
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EU/EEA/Swiss citizens residing in the Netherlands
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Non-EU nationals with a residence permit
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International students (with some exceptions)
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Employees and self-employed individuals
Who Is Exempt?
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Tourists and temporary visitors
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People who do not live or work in the Netherlands
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Certain students depending on their status and length of stay
3. Types of Health Insurance
There are two main types of health insurance in the Netherlands:
A. Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)
This is the mandatory insurance plan that covers essential healthcare services such as:
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General practitioner (GP) consultations
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Hospital stays and treatments
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Specialist care
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Prescription medications (most)
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Maternity care
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Mental health services
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Emergency care
The coverage for basic insurance is standardized by the Dutch government, meaning all insurers offer the same package, although premiums and service quality may vary.
B. Supplementary Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)
Supplementary insurance is optional and covers additional healthcare services not included in the basic package, such as:
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Dental care for adults
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Physiotherapy
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Alternative medicine
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Glasses and contact lenses
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International coverage
Each insurer offers different supplementary packages, allowing consumers to choose what best suits their needs.
4. Costs and Premiums
Monthly Premium
The average monthly premium for basic health insurance in 2025 is around €130 to €150 per person. This premium is paid directly to the insurer. The government does not set the premium, but it does approve the basic coverage terms.
Annual Deductible (Eigen Risico)
Every insured adult must pay an annual deductible (own risk) for certain healthcare costs before the insurance kicks in. For 2025, the standard deductible is €385. This means the first €385 of covered services (like medications or hospital visits) must be paid out of pocket.
Certain services, such as GP visits, maternity care, and child healthcare, are exempt from the deductible.
Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)
To make health insurance more affordable, the Dutch government offers a healthcare allowance for low to middle-income residents. This financial support can cover a significant portion of the monthly premium and is provided through the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority). Eligibility and amount depend on your income, assets, and family situation.
5. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider
There are over 40 health insurance providers in the Netherlands. While all offer the same basic coverage, they differ in terms of:
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Monthly premium
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Service quality
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Reimbursement policy
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Preferred provider networks
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Customer support (in English and other languages)
Commonly known Dutch insurers include:
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Zilveren Kruis
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VGZ
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CZ
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Menzis
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OHRA
Expats often prefer companies with English-language support, such as:
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HEMA
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Aon
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OOM Verzekeringen
6. Health Insurance for Children
Children under the age of 18 are covered for free under their parents’ health insurance policy. Parents must still register their child with an insurer after birth or arrival in the country. Supplementary insurance for children can also be added at no extra cost in many cases.
7. International Students and Expats
Health insurance requirements for international students and expats depend on their situation:
A. Students from the EU/EEA
If you do not work during your stay, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) might be sufficient. However, once you take a part-time job or paid internship, you are required to get Dutch health insurance.
B. Non-EU Students
Students with private health insurance from their home country may be covered initially. If you start working or your stay becomes long-term, you’ll need to register for Dutch health insurance.
C. Expats
As soon as you start working or officially reside in the Netherlands (i.e., register at the municipality), you must take out Dutch basic health insurance within 4 months. Failing to do so can result in fines and back payments.
8. What Happens If You Don’t Get Insurance?
Failing to obtain health insurance within 4 months of becoming a Dutch resident can result in:
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A warning letter from the CAK (the government agency that monitors uninsured individuals)
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A fine of around €400 every 3 months
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Automatic enrollment in an insurance plan with premiums deducted from your salary or benefits
It is strongly advised to arrange your health insurance promptly after arriving in the country.
9. How to Apply for Health Insurance
The process is straightforward and can be done online:
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Compare health insurance providers via comparison websites like Independer or Zorgwijzer.
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Choose your basic plan (and optional supplementary insurance).
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Register online with your BSN and other personal details.
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Receive confirmation and your health insurance card.
You can switch insurance providers once per year, during the open enrollment period in November and December, with the new policy starting January 1st.
10. Final Thoughts
The Dutch health insurance system is designed to balance accessibility, efficiency, and quality. While premiums can seem high, the coverage is extensive and supported by a strong primary care network. The availability of government subsidies ensures that even lower-income residents can afford care.
For anyone planning to live, work, or study in the Netherlands, understanding and arranging proper health insurance is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial step in ensuring peace of mind and health security.