Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide
Health insurance in the Netherlands is widely regarded as one of the most efficient and accessible systems in the world. It offers a combination of public and private elements, ensuring high-quality care for all residents while maintaining affordability through a regulated competitive market. This article will provide an in-depth look into how the Dutch healthcare system works, what health insurance covers, costs involved, and what both residents and expats should know to stay compliant and protected.
Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System
The healthcare system in the Netherlands is based on the principle of solidarity, where everyone contributes to the cost of care and receives equal access regardless of their health status or income. The Dutch government regulates health insurance to make sure it's accessible and affordable, but insurance is provided by private companies operating under strict conditions.
Every resident of the Netherlands is legally required to have basic health insurance (basisverzekering). This policy covers standard medical care like visits to the general practitioner (GP), hospital treatments, and prescription medications.
The system is divided into two main components:
-
Zorgverzekeringswet (Zvw) – The Health Insurance Act that covers curative care such as GP visits and hospital care.
-
Wet langdurige zorg (Wlz) – The Long-term Care Act, which covers long-term nursing and personal care.
Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?
Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including Dutch citizens, EU/EEA nationals, and non-EU residents who are staying in the country for more than 4 months. Expats who start working in the Netherlands must register for Dutch health insurance within four months of arriving. Failing to do so may result in fines and retroactive premium charges.
Certain groups, like international students, may be exempt depending on their work status and visa type.
Types of Health Insurance
There are two main types of health insurance in the Netherlands:
1. Basic Insurance (Basisverzekering)
This is mandatory and covers:
-
Visits to the general practitioner (huisarts)
-
Hospital stays and treatments
-
Emergency care
-
Mental health services
-
Prescription medications
-
Maternity care
-
Medical care for children under 18
-
Physiotherapy (limited)
-
Vaccinations
Every insurance provider must offer the same coverage in the basic package, as defined by the government. The difference lies in customer service, additional benefits, and monthly premiums.
2. Supplementary Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)
This is optional and covers services not included in the basic package, such as:
-
Extensive dental care (especially for adults)
-
Physiotherapy beyond the basic limit
-
Alternative medicine (e.g., acupuncture)
-
Glasses and contact lenses
-
Worldwide travel insurance with medical coverage
Each insurance company designs its own supplementary packages, and coverage can vary widely.
Cost of Health Insurance in the Netherlands
Monthly Premium
In 2025, the average cost for basic health insurance is around €140 to €160 per month. The exact premium depends on the insurance provider and your chosen deductible (eigen risico).
Deductible (Eigen Risico)
The mandatory deductible is €385 per year (as of 2025). This means you have to pay the first €385 of your healthcare costs (excluding GP visits and some other services) out-of-pocket before the insurance starts covering expenses. You can choose to raise your deductible up to €885 to reduce your monthly premium.
Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)
Low-income individuals and families may be eligible for a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag), a subsidy from the Dutch government to help cover health insurance costs. The allowance amount depends on income and household composition and is administered through the Dutch Tax Office (Belastingdienst).
How to Choose a Health Insurance Provider
When selecting a health insurance provider (zorgverzekeraar), consider the following:
-
Monthly premium
-
Deductible amount
-
Free choice of doctors and hospitals (restitution vs. in-kind policy)
-
Availability of English-speaking support (especially for expats)
-
Supplementary insurance options
-
Customer service ratings
Well-known Dutch health insurers include Zilveren Kruis, CZ, VGZ, Menzis, and OHRA. Comparison websites like Independer.nl, Zorgkiezer.nl, or Zorgwijzer.nl can help users compare plans.
Health Insurance for Expats and International Students
Expats
Expats who live and/or work in the Netherlands are generally required to take out Dutch health insurance within 4 months of registering in the country. If you are employed, your employer may help guide you through the process, but the responsibility lies with the individual.
If you already have private health insurance from another EU country, it may only cover temporary stays and not replace Dutch insurance. If you fail to register on time, you risk being fined by CAK (the Central Administration Office).
International Students
International students may not always be required to purchase Dutch health insurance, depending on:
-
Nationality (EU/EEA or non-EU)
-
Whether they are employed
-
The duration of their stay
Students from the EU/EEA can often use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while others may use private or travel insurance. If a student gets a part-time job or internship with pay, Dutch health insurance becomes mandatory.
Accessing Medical Care
General Practitioners (Huisarts)
The GP is your first point of contact for any non-emergency medical issues. You must register with a GP in your area, and they handle referrals to specialists.
Hospitals
There are three types of hospitals:
-
University medical centers – offer specialist care and research
-
General hospitals – provide common medical services
-
Categorical hospitals – focus on specific conditions, like cancer or heart care
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (apotheek) dispense prescription drugs and are often linked to your GP. Many medications are covered by basic insurance, but not all.
Emergency Care
In an emergency, you can go to the Emergency Department (Spoedeisende Hulp) at a hospital or call 112 for an ambulance. Emergency care is always covered by basic insurance.
If you need non-urgent medical help outside GP hours, you can visit an out-of-hours GP service (huisartsenpost).
Dental Care in the Netherlands
Dental care for children under 18 is covered under the basic package, but for adults, it is not. If you want dental coverage, you must get supplementary insurance. Even then, reimbursement often has limits (e.g., 75% of treatment costs up to €500/year).
Mental Health Care
Mental health services (GGZ) are partially covered under basic insurance. It includes care from psychologists, psychiatrists, and specialized clinics. You may need a GP referral, and treatments may involve waiting lists.
Special Programs and Additional Benefits
Some insurers offer:
-
Online health portals
-
Mental health apps
-
Health programs for chronic patients
-
Discounts on gym memberships or wellness programs
Always review your policy to see what’s available.
Conclusion
The Dutch health insurance system ensures that everyone in the country has access to quality medical care, regardless of income or background. With a mix of public regulation and private providers, the system offers flexibility, high standards, and a strong safety net. For residents, expats, and students alike, understanding the rules, costs, and options is essential to making informed decisions and staying protected.
Whether you're moving to the Netherlands for work, study, or a long-term stay, securing appropriate health insurance is not just a legal requirement – it's a vital step in protecting your well-being in one of Europe’s best healthcare environments.