Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide

The Netherlands is globally recognized for its high-quality healthcare system. Ranked among the best in Europe, the Dutch healthcare model emphasizes accessibility, affordability, and quality of service. At the heart of this system is health insurance, which is mandatory for all residents. Whether you're a Dutch citizen, an expat, or an international student, understanding how health insurance works in the Netherlands is essential to accessing medical care and ensuring compliance with the law.

This article provides a detailed look at health insurance in the Netherlands, including types of coverage, how the system works, costs, providers, and tips for choosing the right plan.

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1. Overview of the Dutch Healthcare System

The healthcare system in the Netherlands is based on a combination of public regulation and private provision. It’s structured around the principle of social solidarity, where everyone pays into the system, and everyone receives care as needed.

Key characteristics of the Dutch healthcare system include:

• Compulsory health insurance

• Universal access

• High standards of care

• Government-regulated premiums

• Private insurance companies

All residents must take out basic health insurance (basisverzekering), which provides access to essential medical services.

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2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?

Yes. Health insurance is legally required for everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands.

This includes:

• Dutch citizens

• EU/EEA nationals living in the Netherlands

• Expats with a residence permit

• International students with paid internships or part-time jobs

You are required to take out Dutch health insurance within four months of registering in the Netherlands, but premiums will be backdated to your registration date.

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3. The Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)

The basisverzekering is the standard Dutch health insurance package that covers essential medical care. This package is defined by the government and is the same for all insurers, although providers may differ in price and service.

Coverage Includes:

• Visits to the general practitioner (GP)

• Hospital treatment and specialist care

• Emergency care

• Prescription medication (partially)

• Mental health services (GGZ)

• Maternity and obstetric care

• Limited dental care for those under 18

• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy (in some cases)

What’s Not Covered:

• Adult dental care (except emergencies)

• Eyeglasses and contact lenses

• Alternative medicine (homeopathy, acupuncture)

• Extensive physiotherapy

• Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary)

To cover these, you can opt for supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering).

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4. Supplementary Insurance

Although not mandatory, many residents choose to add supplementary health insurance. These plans vary greatly by provider and can include:

• Adult dental care

• Extended physiotherapy sessions

• Travel vaccinations

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Alternative therapies

Keep in mind:

• Supplementary insurance is not regulated by the government.

• Insurers are allowed to reject your application for supplementary coverage.

• You may be subject to a health questionnaire.

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5. Monthly Premiums and Deductibles

A. Monthly Premiums (Zorgpremie)

The average monthly premium for basic insurance in 2025 is around €135 – €150 per person. Children under 18 are covered for free under their parent’s plan.

Premiums vary slightly between providers but not by income. However, the government provides healthcare allowances (zorgtoeslag) for low-income individuals and families.

B. Annual Deductible (Eigen Risico)

The mandatory deductible in 2025 is €385 per year. This means you must pay the first €385 of eligible healthcare costs yourself (excluding GP visits and maternity care). After reaching the deductible, your insurer covers the rest.

You can voluntarily increase your deductible up to €885 to reduce your monthly premiums.

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6. Government Assistance: Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)

If you have a low or moderate income, you may be eligible for zorgtoeslag, a monthly subsidy to help cover health insurance costs.

In 2025:

• Singles can receive up to €127 per month

• Couples can receive up to €243 per month

Eligibility depends on:

• Income level

• Assets

• Age

• Residency status

Applications are submitted through the Belastingdienst (Dutch Tax Authority) website.

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7. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider

There are over 30 health insurance companies in the Netherlands, including well-known providers such as:

• Zilveren Kruis

• VGZ

• CZ

• Menzis

• DSW

• FBTO

• Ditzo

These providers offer slightly different prices, customer service quality, and reimbursement models.

Types of Policies:

1. Restitutiepolis (Restitution Policy):

   • Freedom to choose any healthcare provider.

   • Higher premium.

   • You may pay upfront and get reimbursed.

2. Naturapolis (In-Kind Policy):

   • Care is arranged with contracted providers.

   • Lower premium.

   • Bills are paid directly by the insurer.

3. Combinatiepolis (Combination Policy):

   • A mix of the two above.

Compare plans at websites like:

• Zorgkiezer.nl

• Independer.nl

• Zorgwijzer.nl

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8. How to Apply for Health Insurance

Applying for Dutch health insurance is straightforward:

1. Register at your local municipality (gemeente) to get a BSN (citizen service number).

2. Compare providers and select a policy.

3. Apply online via the provider’s website.

4. Provide your BSN, bank details, and ID.

5. Receive confirmation and health insurance card.

Your policy begins retroactively from your registration date.

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9. Health Insurance for Expats

Expats living and working in the Netherlands are subject to the same health insurance laws as Dutch citizens.

Important tips for expats:

• If you are employed, you must take out Dutch insurance.

• If you are on a short stay or tourist visa, you may use travel insurance instead.

• If you’re from the EU, your EHIC card may cover short-term stays, but not long-term residence.

International students without a job may not need Dutch insurance and can stay on a foreign plan. However, if you take a job or internship, Dutch insurance becomes mandatory.

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10. What Happens If You Don’t Have Health Insurance?

Failure to get insurance can lead to:

• A warning and fine from the CAK (Centraal Administratie Kantoor)

• Automatic enrollment in a policy with high premiums

• Retroactive billing for missed months

• Legal consequences

Always ensure you’re properly insured as soon as you move to the Netherlands.

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11. Healthcare Access with Insurance

Once insured, you gain access to one of the most efficient healthcare systems in Europe.

• You must first visit a general practitioner (huisarts) for non-emergency medical issues.

• Your GP can refer you to specialists or hospitals.

• Emergency care (ER) is accessible with or without a referral.

Hospitals are modern, clean, and well-staffed. Doctors speak English, and patient care is considered among the best in the EU.

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Conclusion

Health insurance in the Netherlands is a vital part of everyday life. With mandatory coverage, high-quality care, and robust government oversight, the Dutch healthcare system ensures that all residents have access to medical services. Whether you're a native citizen, a new expat, or a student, securing the right health insurance policy will keep you protected and give you peace of mind.

Understanding your rights, responsibilities, and options allows you to make informed decisions and enjoy one of the most respected healthcare systems in the world.