Understanding Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide

Health insurance in the Netherlands is not only a legal requirement but also a fundamental part of life for residents. Whether you are a Dutch citizen, a permanent resident, or an expat planning to stay in the Netherlands for an extended period, understanding how the Dutch health insurance system works is essential. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Dutch health insurance, its structure, costs, coverage, and tips for navigating the system.

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1. Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System

The Netherlands is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world. It operates under a dual-level system:

• Mandatory Basic Health Insurance (Zorgverzekeringswet or Zvw)

• Optional Supplemental Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)

Healthcare in the Netherlands is privately operated but publicly regulated. This means insurance companies are private, but the government ensures that healthcare is accessible and affordable to everyone through strict regulations.

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2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all residents and those working in the Netherlands. According to Dutch law, everyone over the age of 18 must have at least basic health insurance (basisverzekering), even if they already have international coverage.

Children under 18 are automatically covered for free under their parents’ policy. However, once a person turns 18, they must take out their own policy and start paying premiums.

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3. What Does Basic Health Insurance Cover?

The basic health insurance package is determined by the Dutch government. Regardless of which insurance company you choose, the coverage of the basic package is the same.

It includes:

• Visits to the general practitioner (GP)

• Specialist care (e.g., hospital visits)

• Emergency services

• Short-term mental health care

• Prescription medications

• Maternity and midwifery care

• Dental care up to age 18

• Medical aids and devices

• Ambulance transport

• Preventive care (vaccinations, screenings)

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4. What Is Not Covered by Basic Insurance?

There are several services that are not covered under the basic plan, including:

• Most adult dental care

• Physiotherapy for adults (except in certain chronic conditions)

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary)

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

To cover these services, you can take out supplemental (aanvullende) insurance for an additional fee.

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5. How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in the Netherlands?

Monthly Premiums

The average monthly premium for basic health insurance in 2025 ranges from €125 to €150 per month per adult. Prices vary slightly depending on the insurer and additional services included.

Deductible (Eigen risico)

The mandatory deductible in 2025 is €385 per year. This means you have to pay the first €385 of certain healthcare costs yourself each year. GP visits, maternity care, and child healthcare are exempt from this deductible.

You can also choose a higher voluntary deductible (up to €885 total) in exchange for a lower monthly premium.

Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)

If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) from the Dutch government. In 2025, the allowance can be up to €154 per month for single individuals and more for couples.

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6. How to Choose a Health Insurance Provider

There are over 40 health insurance providers in the Netherlands. When choosing one, consider the following factors:

• Monthly premium cost

• Coverage of supplemental insurance

• Freedom to choose healthcare providers (reimbursement vs. in-kind policies)

• Customer service and reputation

• Online tools and app features

Popular insurance companies include Zilveren Kruis, VGZ, CZ, Menzis, OHRA, and DSW.

You can compare insurance policies on official Dutch comparison websites like Zorgwijzer.nl or Independer.nl.

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7. Health Insurance for Expats and International Students

If you’re moving to the Netherlands for work or a long-term stay, you are legally required to take out Dutch health insurance within four months of registering with your local municipality.

Students from the EU/EEA who do not have a job are usually not required to take out Dutch insurance and can keep their EU health card. Non-EU students or those with part-time jobs may be required to switch to Dutch insurance.

It’s important to check your individual situation with the CAK (Centraal Administratie Kantoor) to avoid fines.

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8. What Happens if You Don’t Have Health Insurance?

Failing to get Dutch health insurance when required can lead to penalties. You may receive a warning from the CAK, and if you still don’t comply:

• You will be fined €400+ every 3 months.

• After repeated non-compliance, a health insurer will be assigned to you and premiums deducted from your income.

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9. How to Register for Health Insurance

You can register for health insurance:

• Online through the insurer’s website

• Via comparison platforms

• Through a broker or agent

You’ll need:

• BSN (Citizen Service Number)

• Proof of Dutch residency

• Bank account number

• Passport or ID

Policies can be changed once a year, usually during the open enrollment period in November and December, for the following year.

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10. Supplemental Tips and Advice

• Switching insurers yearly can save you money if you compare carefully.

• Use healthcare apps provided by insurers for submitting bills and finding providers.

• Be aware of contracted vs. non-contracted providers – some plans only cover care from certain hospitals or clinics.

• If you plan to travel, consider international coverage or travel health insurance as an add-on.

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Conclusion

The Dutch health insurance system is robust, efficient, and heavily regulated to ensure fairness and accessibility. While it may seem complicated at first, especially for newcomers, it offers excellent healthcare services backed by a wide range of insurance options. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under this system will help you get the most out of your healthcare in the Netherlands.

Whether you're an expat, student, or long-term resident, being informed about Dutch health insurance is not only smart—it’s essential.