Health Insurance in the Netherlands: Everything You Need to Know

The Netherlands is widely known for its high-quality healthcare system, which consistently ranks among the best in the world. At the core of this system is a well-regulated and compulsory health insurance framework designed to ensure that every resident has access to essential medical care. Whether you are a Dutch citizen, an expatriate, or an international student, understanding how health insurance in the Netherlands works is essential for navigating daily life and avoiding unnecessary costs.

1. Overview of the Dutch Health Insurance System

Healthcare in the Netherlands is primarily funded through a combination of mandatory health insurance premiums and government subsidies. The system is based on the principle of solidarity, which means that everyone contributes to the cost of healthcare, regardless of their health status. In return, everyone receives the same basic level of coverage.

Dutch health insurance is divided into two main components:

• Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering): This is mandatory for all residents.

• Supplementary Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering): Optional coverage for services not included in the basic package.

2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for anyone who lives or works in the Netherlands. This includes:

• Dutch citizens

• Expats who are employed or residing in the Netherlands

• International students staying for more than 3 months (in some cases)

You are required to take out basic health insurance within four months of registering with your local municipality (gemeente). Failure to do so may result in fines and retroactive premium charges.

3. What Does the Basic Health Insurance Cover?

The basic health insurance package is set by the government and updated every year. It covers essential medical services, including:

• Visits to the general practitioner (GP)

• Hospital stays and treatments

• Emergency care

• Specialist care upon referral

• Prescription medications (selected list)

• Maternity and obstetric care

• Mental health services (some limitations)

• Certain medical devices

This package ensures that all residents have access to necessary healthcare without discrimination.

4. Supplementary Health Insurance

While the basic insurance is comprehensive, it does not cover everything. Many residents opt for supplementary insurance to cover services like:

• Dental care for adults

• Physiotherapy

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Alternative treatments (e.g., acupuncture, chiropractic)

• Additional mental health support

• Extended maternity care

Supplementary insurance is not regulated by the government, so coverage and costs vary widely between insurers. You are not obligated to buy supplementary insurance from the same company as your basic plan.

5. How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?

The average monthly cost for basic health insurance in 2025 ranges from €130 to €160, depending on the insurer and deductible you choose.

Cost Components:

• Monthly Premium: Fixed amount paid to your insurer.

• Own Risk (Eigen Risico): Annual deductible you must pay before insurance kicks in for some services (standard in 2025 is €385).

• Government Contribution (Zorgtoeslag): A subsidy to help low-income individuals pay for insurance.

If you earn below a certain threshold, you may be eligible for zorgtoeslag, which can cover a significant portion of your monthly premium.

6. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

The Netherlands has around 30 health insurance companies, all offering the same basic coverage but with different service levels, premiums, and add-ons. When choosing a provider, consider the following:

• Monthly cost

• Customer service quality

• Range of supplementary packages

• Coverage for preferred hospitals or clinics

• Online tools and English-speaking support

Comparison websites like Zorgwijzer.nl or Independer.nl are useful for finding the best plan for your needs.

7. Annual Deductible: How It Works

The deductible (eigen risico) is the amount you pay out-of-pocket each year for certain medical services before your insurer starts reimbursing costs. In 2025, the standard deductible is €385.

It applies to:

• Hospital care

• Prescription medications

• Some specialist visits

It does not apply to:

• GP visits

• Maternity care

• Children under 18

You can choose to increase your deductible voluntarily (up to €885) in exchange for a lower monthly premium, but this can be risky if unexpected medical expenses occur.

8. Health Insurance for Children

Children under the age of 18 are covered for free under their parents' basic health insurance. They must still be registered with a health insurer, but no premiums or deductibles apply. Many parents also choose a supplementary plan that includes dental care for children.

9. Special Cases: Expats, Students, and Tourists

Expats:

If you work or live in the Netherlands, you must take out Dutch health insurance, even if you already have an international plan. EU citizens can use their EHIC card for short stays but must register for Dutch insurance for longer stays.

Students:

EU students staying for less than a year may not need Dutch insurance. However, if you work part-time, you are required to switch to a Dutch provider. Non-EU students often need private insurance unless they qualify for Dutch plans through employment.

Tourists:

Short-term visitors should use travel health insurance or the EHIC card (for EU residents). Dutch health insurance is not required unless you're staying long-term.

10. How to Register for Health Insurance

To sign up for health insurance, follow these steps:

1. Register at the gemeente (municipality): You'll receive a BSN (citizen service number).

2. Choose an insurer: Compare plans online or call companies directly.

3. Apply: Fill out the online application, submit your BSN, and select your deductible and any supplementary packages.

4. Receive your health insurance card and policy: Usually arrives by post or email.

Once registered, you will be insured retroactively from the date you became a resident or started working.

11. Changing Insurers

You can switch health insurance providers once per year, during the open enrollment period from November 15 to December 31. Your new insurance will begin on January 1. If you don’t act, your current policy will automatically renew.

12. Tips for Managing Healthcare Costs

• Choose a higher deductible only if you are healthy and rarely visit the doctor.

• Use in-network providers to avoid additional fees.

• Apply for zorgtoeslag if you qualify.

• Compare supplementary packages to avoid overpaying for unnecessary coverage.

• Use a GP as your first point of contact to avoid expensive specialist bills.

Conclusion

Health insurance in the Netherlands is a vital and mandatory part of life, offering high-quality care to everyone. While the system can be complex at first—especially for expats—it is designed with fairness and accessibility in mind. By understanding your options, comparing providers, and applying for subsidies if eligible, you can ensure you get the best coverage without breaking the bank.