Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide

The Netherlands is renowned for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world. At the heart of this system is a well-structured and mandatory health insurance policy that ensures every resident has access to quality medical care. Whether you're an expat moving to the Netherlands, a student, or a long-term resident, understanding how health insurance works in the country is essential.

1. The Basics of Dutch Health Insurance

In the Netherlands, health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including international workers and students who plan to stay longer than four months. The system is built on a combination of public and private partnerships, which allows individuals to choose their preferred insurance provider while maintaining universal access to essential care.

Health insurance in the Netherlands is divided into two main parts:

• Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)

• Supplementary Health Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)

Basic Health Insurance (Compulsory)

The basic package is mandatory and regulated by the government. It covers standard medical services such as:

• Visits to general practitioners (GPs)

• Hospital treatments

• Prescription medications

• Maternity care

• Mental healthcare

• Emergency services

• Certain therapies (e.g., physiotherapy for chronic conditions)

Although private insurance companies provide the policies, the Dutch government defines what must be included in the basic package. As such, the coverage is nearly identical across all providers — what differs is service quality, customer support, premium costs, and add-ons.

Supplementary Health Insurance (Optional)

This is optional and varies significantly between providers. It can cover:

• Dental care (especially for adults)

• Additional physiotherapy sessions

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Alternative medicine

• International medical coverage

Many Dutch residents opt for supplementary insurance depending on their personal needs.

2. How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?

As of 2025, the average monthly premium for basic health insurance is between €130 and €150 per person, depending on the insurer and level of deductibles. Children under the age of 18 are insured for free under their parents’ policy.

The Deductible (Eigen Risico)

Every insured adult must pay an annual deductible, which is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance covers certain services. In 2025, the standard deductible is €385 per year.

Some services, like visits to your GP or maternity care, are not subject to the deductible. You can also opt for a higher voluntary deductible (up to €885), which can lower your monthly premium.

3. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

There are around 40 health insurance companies in the Netherlands. All of them offer the same basic coverage but compete based on:

• Monthly premium

• Deductible options

• Customer service

• Hospital network coverage

• Supplementary packages

It’s possible to switch insurers once a year, usually in December or January. Many Dutch residents compare providers using comparison websites such as:

• Independer.nl

• Zorgwijzer.nl

• Pricewise.nl

4. Health Insurance for Expats

Expats living and working in the Netherlands must take out Dutch health insurance within four months of registering with the local municipality. If you are employed and paying Dutch income tax, you are required to have insurance — even if you already have international coverage.

Exceptions include:

• Temporary students from outside the EU without a job

• Cross-border workers covered by their home country’s healthcare system

• Diplomats and military personnel

Failing to obtain insurance within the required timeframe can result in fines and backdated premium payments.

5. Government Health Subsidy (Zorgtoeslag)

The Dutch government offers a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) to low-income individuals to help offset the cost of insurance. Eligibility is based on income level and household situation.

In 2025, single individuals earning less than approximately €38,000 per year and couples earning under €48,000 per year may qualify. The allowance can be up to €120 per month, depending on circumstances.

You can apply for zorgtoeslag through the Dutch Tax Office (Belastingdienst), and it is typically paid directly into your bank account every month.

6. Healthcare Access and Quality

Once insured, accessing healthcare in the Netherlands is straightforward and efficient. The system revolves around the General Practitioner (GP), who acts as the first point of contact for any medical issue. GPs handle diagnoses, treatments, and referrals to specialists if needed.

The Netherlands is known for:

• Short waiting times

• High-quality hospitals

• Well-trained professionals

• Digital access to medical records

It is common to book appointments online, and many practices offer video consultations. Pharmacies are also integrated into the system, making prescriptions easy to manage.

7. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

If you're a resident in the Netherlands, you can request a European Health Insurance Card through your insurer. This card entitles you to medical treatment in other EU countries, under the same conditions as locals.

It’s particularly useful for travelers or those who frequently move across European borders.

8. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Not having valid health insurance when required can lead to serious consequences:

• A fine of around €400 from the Central Administration Office (CAK)

• Continued monthly fines if you delay longer

• A situation where the government chooses an insurer for you and deducts premiums from your income

Therefore, it's crucial to take your registration seriously and ensure you're insured from the start.

9. Students and Health Insurance

International students in the Netherlands must assess whether they are required to take out Dutch health insurance. Generally:

• EU/EEA/Swiss students can use their European Health Insurance Card.

• Non-EU students may use international student insurance unless they get a paid job, in which case Dutch insurance becomes mandatory.

• Some universities offer guidance or special group insurance plans for students.

Always check with your institution and the IND (Dutch Immigration Service) for the most accurate advice.

10. Tips for Managing Your Health Insurance

Here are a few practical tips for dealing with Dutch health insurance:

• Compare yearly: Premiums and policies change annually — switching can save you money.

• Track your deductible: Keep an eye on what you've paid out-of-pocket each year.

• Understand what’s covered: Especially for supplementary packages, read the terms carefully.

• Use digital tools: Most insurers have apps or online portals for easy management.

Conclusion

The Dutch healthcare system is a model of efficiency, accessibility, and quality, underpinned by a well-regulated health insurance scheme. Although premiums and rules can seem complex at first, once you're integrated into the system, it offers excellent care with minimal hassle.

Whether you're moving to the Netherlands for work, study, or family reasons, understanding and obtaining the right health insurance is a critical first step to a smooth life in this forward-thinking European country.