Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide

Health insurance in the Netherlands is not just a recommendation; it is mandatory for every resident. Whether you are a Dutch citizen, an expat, or a long-term visitor, understanding the Dutch health insurance system is crucial to ensure proper healthcare access and avoid legal complications. This article provides an in-depth look into the health insurance system in the Netherlands, including its structure, costs, coverage, providers, and tips for choosing the best plan.

1. Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System

The healthcare system in the Netherlands is recognized globally for its efficiency, quality, and accessibility. It is based on a dual-level system:

• Mandatory basic health insurance (basisverzekering)

• Optional supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering)

The system is designed to ensure that everyone has access to essential medical services while allowing individuals to choose additional coverage based on their needs.

2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?

Yes. Under Dutch law, everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands must take out basic health insurance within four months of registering with the municipality (gemeente). Failing to do so can result in fines and back payments.

There are a few exceptions:

• Temporary visitors (like tourists)

• Students from certain countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements

• Diplomats and international organization staff

3. The Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)

What it covers:

The Dutch basic health insurance covers essential medical care, including:

• General practitioner (GP) visits

• Hospital care and surgeries

• Specialist consultations

• Emergency care

• Prescription medications

• Maternity and obstetric care

• Mental health care

• Physiotherapy (limited)

• Ambulance services

This coverage is standardized by the government, meaning all insurers must offer the same basic coverage.

4. Supplemental Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)

Basic insurance does not cover everything. For services like:

• Dental care (for adults)

• Extended physiotherapy

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Alternative medicine

• Additional mental health services

…you will need supplementary insurance, which is optional and varies by provider.

Supplementary insurance is not regulated by the government, so coverage and costs can differ significantly.

5. Cost of Health Insurance in the Netherlands

a. Monthly Premiums

In 2025, the average premium for basic health insurance is approximately €140–€160 per month. This does not include supplementary insurance.

b. Deductible (Eigen risico)

Each insured person must pay the first €385 (standard deductible in 2025) of certain medical costs per year. After this, the insurance covers the remaining costs.

You can voluntarily increase your deductible (up to €885) in exchange for lower monthly premiums. This is ideal for healthy individuals who rarely need care.

c. Government Subsidy (Zorgtoeslag)

Low-income residents can apply for a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) to help with insurance costs. It is administered by the Dutch Tax Office (Belastingdienst), and the amount depends on income, assets, and household composition.

6. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

The Netherlands has many private health insurers such as:

• Zilveren Kruis

• VGZ

• Menzis

• CZ

• DSW

• FBTO

• OHRA

• HEMA Zorgverzekering

All providers offer the same basic coverage, but premiums, customer service, online tools, and supplementary packages vary.

When comparing providers, consider:

• Premium costs

• Freedom to choose healthcare providers (restitution vs. natura policy)

• Customer satisfaction ratings

• Coverage for international travel

• English-language support (especially for expats)

7. Types of Health Insurance Policies

There are mainly three types of policies:

1. Natura Policy (Naturapolis)

You receive care from healthcare providers that the insurer has contracted. If you go outside the network, you may have to pay a portion of the cost.

2. Restitution Policy (Restitutiepolis)

Gives you the freedom to choose any healthcare provider, and the insurer reimburses the full cost (within reasonable limits).

3. Combination Policy

A mix of both. Some services are covered only with contracted providers, others are reimbursed regardless of provider.

Most people in the Netherlands choose a natura policy due to its lower premiums.

8. Health Insurance for Expats and Students

Expats working in the Netherlands must enroll in Dutch health insurance even if they already have international health insurance. EU/EEA citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) temporarily, but this is not a long-term solution.

For international students:

• If you are not working, you may use international student insurance (e.g., Aon, Allianz).

• If you have a job or internship with income, you must register for Dutch health insurance.

9. How to Apply for Health Insurance

You can apply directly through the insurer’s website or use comparison websites like:

• Independer.nl

• Zorgkiezer.nl

• Pricewise.nl

The process typically involves:

1. Filling in personal details

2. Choosing a deductible and any supplementary packages

3. Receiving your policy and insurance card

Most providers offer English-language application forms and customer service.

10. Cancelling or Changing Health Insurance

You can only change health insurance providers once a year, during the open enrollment period:

• December 1 to January 1

If you switch, your new insurer can handle the cancellation of your old policy.

You can cancel mid-year only in special cases like:

• Moving abroad

• Turning 18

• Starting or ending a job in the Netherlands

11. Healthcare Access with Insurance

Once insured, you will receive a health insurance card or digital ID. With this, you can:

• Register with a local GP (huisarts)

• Book medical appointments

• Access hospitals and specialists

• Receive prescription medications

The GP is your gateway to most healthcare services; you need a referral from the GP before seeing specialists.

12. Common Questions and Misconceptions

Do children need their own policy?

Children under 18 are insured for free under the parent’s policy but must still be registered.

Can I go to any hospital?

Yes, but coverage may vary depending on your policy type (especially natura policies).

Is dental care covered?

Only for children under 18. Adults must purchase supplementary insurance for dental coverage.

13. Tips to Save on Health Insurance

• Compare providers annually

• Consider raising your deductible if you're healthy

• Only add supplementary packages you truly need

• Apply for zorgtoeslag if eligible

Conclusion

Health insurance in the Netherlands is a mandatory and structured system designed to provide high-quality healthcare to all residents. While the basic package is standardized, there's flexibility in choosing providers, policies, and supplementary packages. Whether you're a citizen, expat, or student, understanding your options and obligations is essential. By making informed choices, you can get the right care while managing costs effectively.