Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide

The Netherlands is known for its efficient and accessible healthcare system, which consistently ranks among the best in the world. At the heart of this system lies health insurance, which is mandatory for all residents and plays a crucial role in ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality medical services. This article provides an in-depth look at how health insurance works in the Netherlands, covering everything from the legal requirements and coverage options to costs and the roles of insurers and the government.

1. Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System

The Dutch healthcare system is built on the principle of social solidarity and individual responsibility. It combines public and private elements, where the government regulates and supervises the system, and private insurance companies provide health insurance coverage.

There are two main laws governing healthcare:

• Zorgverzekeringswet (Zvw) – Health Insurance Act: Covers standard health insurance for curative care.

• Wet langdurige zorg (Wlz) – Long-term Care Act: Covers long-term care for chronic illnesses or disabilities.

All residents, including expatriates living or working in the Netherlands, are required by law to have basic health insurance (basisverzekering).

2. Mandatory Health Insurance: Who Needs It?

Health insurance is compulsory for:

• Dutch citizens

• EU/EEA nationals residing or working in the Netherlands

• Non-EU/EEA residents with a residence permit and income

Children under 18 are also covered, but their premiums are paid by the government. However, parents must still register their children with an insurance provider.

Failure to obtain health insurance within 4 months of becoming a resident or starting work can result in a fine issued by the CAK (Central Administration Office).

3. Types of Health Insurance

There are two types of health insurance in the Netherlands:

a. Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)

This is mandatory and covers a wide range of necessary medical services, including:

• Visits to the general practitioner (GP)

• Hospital care and specialist treatments

• Maternity and obstetric care

• Mental healthcare

• Emergency services

• Medications listed in the basic package

• Rehabilitation

• Limited dental care for people under 18

The coverage is the same across all providers, as it is set by the Dutch government annually. However, premiums and customer service vary between insurance companies.

b. Supplemental Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)

Supplementary insurance is optional and covers services not included in the basic package, such as:

• Extensive dental care (especially for adults)

• Physiotherapy

• Alternative medicine (e.g., acupuncture, homeopathy)

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Travel vaccinations

Premiums, conditions, and coverage vary significantly depending on the insurer.

4. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

There are over 30 health insurance companies in the Netherlands, and they must accept everyone for the basic package without discrimination based on age or health condition.

Factors to consider when choosing a provider:

• Monthly premium

• Type of policy (reimbursement or in-kind)

• Preferred hospitals and care providers

• Customer service and user reviews

• Additional packages and discounts

Types of Policies:

1. Restitutiepolis (Reimbursement policy) – You have the freedom to choose your care provider and get reimbursed.

2. Naturapolis (In-kind policy) – You must use contracted providers for full coverage.

3. Combinatiepolis (Combination policy) – A mix of the above two.

5. Costs and Premiums

Health insurance costs include:

• Monthly premium (premie): Ranges from €110 to €150 depending on the insurer and policy.

• Deductible (eigen risico): A compulsory amount you pay out-of-pocket each year before your insurance starts covering costs. In 2025, the minimum deductible is €385. You can voluntarily increase this up to €885 for a lower premium.

• Supplementary insurance costs: Varies based on coverage, often an additional €10–€50/month.

Premiums are paid directly to the insurance provider, and there is no employer contribution (unlike many other countries).

6. Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)

To help low-income individuals and families afford health insurance, the Dutch government provides a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag).

Eligibility depends on:

• Income level

• Assets/savings

• Living situation (single or partnered)

In 2025, the maximum monthly allowance is around:

• €127 for individuals

• €243 for couples

You can apply through the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst).

7. Health Insurance for Expats and Foreign Students

Expats:

If you live and work in the Netherlands, you are required to take out Dutch health insurance within 4 months of registration. EHIC cards are not sufficient for long-term coverage.

Students:

• EU/EEA/Swiss students without a job can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

• Non-EU students must have private insurance or a Dutch student insurance package.

If a student starts a paid internship or job, they must switch to Dutch basic health insurance.

8. Registration and Switching Providers

Registration:

You can register online or through an agent. Required documents typically include:

• BSN (citizen service number)

• ID or passport

• Proof of residence

• Employment contract (if applicable)

Switching Insurance:

Every year, you can switch providers during the annual switching period from November 12 to December 31. The new policy takes effect on January 1.

You must cancel your old insurance and enroll in a new one before the deadline.

9. What’s Not Covered?

Even with the basic insurance, some costs are not covered, such as:

• Dental care for adults (except in special cases)

• Cosmetic surgery

• Most alternative treatments

• Over-the-counter medications

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Non-emergency care abroad (unless covered by EHIC or extra travel insurance)

10. Tips for Managing Your Insurance

• Compare insurers annually to find better prices or services.

• Use healthcare comparison websites like Independer.nl or Zorgkiezer.nl.

• Consider increasing your deductible to lower monthly premiums if you’re healthy.

• Always check whether a provider is contracted under your policy before making appointments.

• Keep track of your deductible usage during the year.

Conclusion

Health insurance in the Netherlands is a well-structured system that guarantees access to high-quality care for all residents. While the basic insurance is standardized and mandatory, there is flexibility in choosing insurers, policy types, and supplemental coverage. Understanding your rights, costs, and options is essential to making informed choices and getting the most out of the Dutch healthcare system.

Whether you're a Dutch citizen, expat, or international student, staying informed and proactive about your health insurance ensures peace of mind and financial security in times of need.