Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide
The Netherlands is renowned for having one of the most efficient and accessible healthcare systems in the world. At the heart of this system lies a robust health insurance structure that ensures that every resident has access to high-quality medical care. Health insurance in the Netherlands is not only mandatory but also carefully regulated to promote fairness, accessibility, and sustainability. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Dutch health insurance system, including its structure, costs, coverage, eligibility, and more.
1. Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System
The Dutch healthcare system operates on a dual-level approach:
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Basic health insurance (basisverzekering) – Mandatory for all residents and covers essential healthcare needs.
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Supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering) – Optional and covers additional services not included in the basic package.
Healthcare in the Netherlands is primarily provided by private entities, but it is heavily regulated by the government to ensure affordability and accessibility. The Dutch system is often referred to as a "managed competition" model, where insurance companies compete for customers under strict government supervision.
2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory?
Yes. Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is legally required to have basic health insurance. This applies to:
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Dutch citizens
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Expats and international students staying longer than 4 months
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EU/EEA nationals and non-EU/EEA residents with residence permits
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Employees and self-employed individuals
Failing to obtain insurance within four months of registering with the municipality may result in a fine.
3. Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)
The government determines what is included in the basic package, and all insurance companies are required to offer the same coverage. The following services are typically covered:
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Visits to general practitioners (GPs)
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Specialist care and hospital treatment
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Emergency care and ambulance transport
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Mental health care
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Maternity care
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Prescription medications (partially)
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Medical aids and devices
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Rehabilitation
Although the coverage is the same across providers, the premiums, customer service, and contracts with healthcare providers may vary.
4. Supplementary Health Insurance
Supplementary health insurance is optional and provides additional coverage for 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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Cosmetic procedures
Each insurer designs its own supplementary packages and sets different premiums. It's important to note that insurers are allowed to reject applicants for supplementary insurance based on health conditions or age.
5. Health Insurance Providers
Some of the major health insurance companies in the Netherlands include:
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Zilveren Kruis
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VGZ
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Menzis
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CZ
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OHRA
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Anderzorg
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DSW
Each year, residents can compare different policies and switch providers between November 12 and December 31. The new policy starts on January 1 of the following year.
6. Monthly Premiums and Costs
As of 2025, the average monthly premium for basic insurance is approximately €140–€160. However, this can vary based on:
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Deductible (own risk)
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Type of policy (restitution, in-kind, combination)
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Discounts for group insurance
Own Risk (Eigen risico)
Every insured person over 18 must pay an annual deductible (eigen risico), set at €385 in 2025. This means that you must pay the first €385 of healthcare costs out of pocket each year (excluding GP visits, maternity care, and children’s healthcare).
You can choose a higher deductible (up to €885) in exchange for a lower monthly premium.
7. Healthcare for Children
Children under the age of 18 are covered free of charge under their parents' insurance policy. They receive full basic coverage, including dental care until age 18.
8. Government Assistance and Allowances
For individuals or families with low income, the government offers financial assistance in the form of zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance). This allowance helps cover the cost of health insurance and is administered by the Belastingdienst (Dutch Tax Office).
Eligibility for zorgtoeslag depends on:
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Income level
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Household composition
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Residency status
For example, a single individual earning below €40,000 may receive a monthly allowance of up to €120.
9. Health Insurance for Expats and International Students
Expats working or living in the Netherlands are usually required to take out Dutch health insurance, regardless of any existing coverage from their home country.
However, some exceptions apply:
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EU/EEA students may use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
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Non-working residents with private income may be eligible for international insurance instead.
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Employees temporarily sent to the Netherlands by a foreign employer may remain under their home country’s plan if certain agreements are in place.
It is recommended to check eligibility with the SVB (Sociale Verzekeringsbank) or the Zorginstituut Nederland.
10. Types of Insurance Policies
There are three main types of Dutch health insurance policies:
a) Restitution Policy (restitutiepolis)
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Freedom to choose any healthcare provider
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Full reimbursement (sometimes after submitting bills)
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Higher premium
b) In-Kind Policy (natura polis)
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Limited to contracted healthcare providers
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Direct billing to the insurer
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Lower premium
c) Combination Policy (combinatiepolis)
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A mix of restitution and in-kind features
11. Changing or Canceling Insurance
Every year, residents can change insurers or switch policies during the open enrollment period (November 12 to December 31). Outside this window, changes are only allowed under specific circumstances, such as:
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Turning 18
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Moving to or from the Netherlands
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Divorce or change in employment
To cancel your current policy, you must notify your insurer before January 1.
12. How to Choose the Right Health Insurance
Choosing the right plan depends on your:
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Healthcare needs
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Preferred doctors or hospitals
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Budget and willingness to pay a higher deductible
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Need for supplementary coverage (e.g., dental or physiotherapy)
Useful comparison websites:
These tools allow you to compare premiums, coverage, and customer reviews in English or Dutch.
13. Health Insurance for Tourists
Short-term visitors and tourists are not required to take out Dutch insurance. However, they are advised to have:
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Travel insurance with medical coverage
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EHIC (for EU nationals)
Emergency care is available to everyone but may come at a cost if not insured.
Conclusion
Health insurance in the Netherlands is a well-structured, mandatory system designed to ensure universal access to high-quality healthcare. While the basic package offers broad coverage, optional supplementary plans provide flexibility for those with specific needs. Whether you're a Dutch citizen, an expat, or an international student, understanding the Dutch health insurance system is essential for making informed choices and avoiding unnecessary costs. With government regulation, competitive insurance markets, and generous subsidies for those in need, the Netherlands sets a global example of how universal healthcare can be implemented efficiently and equitably.