HEALTH INSURANCE IN THE NETHERLANDS

Health insurance in the Netherlands is not only essential for accessing healthcare services but is also mandatory by law for all residents and workers. The Dutch health insurance system is renowned for its efficiency, accessibility, and quality of care. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how health insurance works in the Netherlands, what options are available, the costs involved, and what newcomers should expect when navigating the system.

---

The Structure of Dutch Health Insurance

The Dutch healthcare system operates under a dual-level model:

1. Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering) – Mandatory for all residents.

2. Supplementary Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering) – Optional for extra services not covered by the basic plan.

Every person living or working in the Netherlands is required to have basic health insurance from a private insurer, regardless of income or employment status. However, the government regulates the basic package, ensuring that all insurers offer the same core coverage.

---

What Does Basic Health Insurance Cover?

The basic health insurance package includes essential medical services such as:

• General practitioner (GP) visits

• Hospital care

• Emergency care

• Maternity and childbirth services

• Mental healthcare (up to a certain number of sessions)

• Prescription medications (essential drugs)

• Specialist consultations

• Ambulance services

• Limited dental care for children under 18

Despite being offered by private insurers, the contents of the basic package are defined by the government, ensuring standardized and equitable healthcare access.

---

Supplementary Insurance

Supplementary insurance is optional and varies by provider. It can include:

• Extended dental care

• Physiotherapy sessions

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Alternative medicine (acupuncture, chiropractic, etc.)

• Additional maternity care

• Travel vaccinations

People often choose supplementary insurance based on their personal or family health needs.

---

Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

Although the basic coverage is the same across providers, insurers differ in:

• Monthly premium rates

• Customer service quality

• Contracts with specific hospitals or clinics

• Extra benefits (for supplementary packages)

Some of the well-known insurers in the Netherlands include:

• Zilveren Kruis

• VGZ

• CZ

• Menzis

• OHRA

You are free to switch providers every year during the open enrollment period (usually in November and December).

---

Health Insurance Costs in the Netherlands

1. Monthly Premium (Premie)

In 2025, the average monthly premium for basic insurance is around €140 per adult. Children under 18 are covered for free under their parents' insurance.

2. Deductible (Eigen Risico)

Each adult must pay an annual deductible before insurance kicks in for most services. The standard deductible in 2025 is €385. This does not apply to:

• GP visits

• Maternity care

• Childcare

• Some chronic disease treatments

You can voluntarily raise your deductible to lower your monthly premium.

3. Government Assistance (Zorgtoeslag)

Low-income individuals and families may be eligible for healthcare allowance from the Dutch government. This helps cover monthly premium costs and is calculated based on income and household size.

---

How to Register for Health Insurance

If you’re a new resident or employee in the Netherlands, you must arrange health insurance within 4 months of registering with the municipality. Here’s how to do it:

1. Obtain your BSN (Burger Service Number) after municipal registration.

2. Compare insurance providers and select a policy.

3. Apply online or via phone with your chosen insurer.

4. Receive your health insurance card and policy documents.

Failing to register on time can result in fines and retroactive premium charges.

---

Health Insurance for Expats and International Students

Expats and internationals working in the Netherlands are subject to the same rules as Dutch citizens and must get Dutch health insurance. EU students can sometimes use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if they’re not employed.

Non-EU students must have either:

• Dutch student insurance

• International student insurance recognized by Dutch authorities

In all cases, working students must switch to a regular Dutch insurance policy.

---

Healthcare Access with Insurance

Once insured, you gain access to a broad network of healthcare providers. However, most non-emergency care requires:

1. Visiting a GP first – They act as gatekeepers.

2. Referrals for specialists – Needed unless in emergencies.

3. Pharmacies – Prescriptions are usually electronically sent.

Hospitals and clinics may only accept certain insurers, so it’s wise to check coverage networks.

---

Switching or Cancelling Health Insurance

You can switch insurers once a year, during the open enrollment period from mid-November to December 31. If you fail to do so, you’re locked in for another year unless there are special circumstances like:

• Moving abroad

• Divorce or job loss

• Turning 18

To switch:

1. Choose your new insurer before December 31.

2. The new insurer will usually cancel your old policy for you.

---

Penalties for No Insurance

If you fail to obtain insurance after becoming a Dutch resident:

• You may receive a warning and fine from the CAK (Central Administration Office).

• Continued failure can result in automatic enrollment in a public policy at a higher cost.

• Fines can be repeated every 3 months until compliance.

---

Conclusion

Health insurance in the Netherlands is a well-structured system designed to offer universal access to high-quality medical care. With its mandatory basic package and optional supplementary policies, the Dutch healthcare system provides both security and flexibility. Whether you're a local, expat, or student, understanding your obligations and options ensures you receive the best possible care without unexpected costs.