Health Insurance in the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide
The Netherlands is widely recognized for its high-quality and accessible healthcare system. Central to this system is its mandatory health insurance policy, which ensures that all residents and citizens have access to necessary medical services. This article provides a thorough overview of health insurance in the Netherlands, including its structure, types, costs, benefits, and practical tips for residents and expatriates alike.
1. Introduction to the Dutch Healthcare System
The Dutch healthcare system operates under a regulated market model, which combines private health insurance companies with strict government regulation. Although healthcare is primarily provided by private entities, the government ensures that everyone receives a standard package of care.
Healthcare in the Netherlands is consistently ranked among the best in the world due to its accessibility, efficiency, and quality. The system is largely funded through insurance premiums and income-based contributions, with the government providing subsidies for those with lower incomes.
2. Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands?
Yes, health insurance is compulsory for all residents of the Netherlands, including expatriates and international students who plan to stay for longer than four months. The moment you register with a municipality (Gemeente), you are typically required to take out Dutch health insurance within four months.
There are a few exceptions, such as:
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Temporary students from outside the EU who do not work in the Netherlands.
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Cross-border workers insured in another EU country.
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Diplomats and foreign military personnel.
Failing to take out health insurance on time may lead to fines and automatic enrollment in a policy, often at a higher premium.
3. Types of Health Insurance in the Netherlands
There are two main types of health insurance:
A. Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering)
This is the mandatory insurance everyone must have. The coverage and scope of the basic package are determined annually by the government and are the same for all providers.
Basic insurance typically covers:
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Visits to the general practitioner (GP)
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Hospital treatment and specialist care
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Prescription medications
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Maternity care and midwifery services
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Emergency medical transport
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Mental healthcare
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Basic dental care for children under 18
Despite the standardized coverage, insurance companies can set their own premiums and contract specific healthcare providers, leading to variations in price and service access.
B. Supplementary Insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)
This is optional insurance that covers services not included in the basic package, such as:
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Adult dental care
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Physiotherapy
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Alternative medicine (e.g., acupuncture)
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Glasses and contact lenses
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Travel vaccinations
Supplementary policies vary widely between insurers and can be tailored to personal needs. Unlike basic insurance, providers are not obligated to accept all applicants for supplementary coverage.
4. How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in the Netherlands?
A. Monthly Premiums
As of 2025, the average monthly premium for basic health insurance is around €140 to €160 per person. Premiums can vary depending on:
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The provider
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The type of policy (e.g., “restitutie” or “natura”)
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The chosen deductible
B. Deductible (Eigen Risico)
The mandatory deductible in 2025 is €385 per year. This means you must pay the first €385 of your healthcare costs (excluding GP visits, maternity care, and children’s care) out of pocket before your insurance covers the rest.
You can voluntarily increase your deductible up to €885 in exchange for a lower premium.
C. Income-Based Contribution
In addition to premiums, people may also pay an income-related healthcare contribution (ZVW) if they receive income from employment or benefits. This is usually withheld by the employer or tax authority.
5. Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)
To make health insurance more affordable, the Dutch government offers a healthcare allowance to low- and middle-income individuals and families.
In 2025, the maximum monthly allowance can reach up to €127 for individuals and €243 for couples, depending on income and assets.
To apply for zorgtoeslag, you must:
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Be over 18
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Have a valid Dutch health insurance policy
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Have an income below the set threshold
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Be a legal resident of the Netherlands
Applications can be made through the Dutch tax authority’s website (Belastingdienst).
6. Choosing a Health Insurance Provider
There are around 40 health insurance companies in the Netherlands, many of which are part of larger conglomerates. Although all companies offer the same basic package, they differ in:
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Monthly premiums
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Customer service
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Access to specific hospitals or specialists
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Online tools and mobile apps
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Supplementary packages
Comparison websites like Zorgkiezer.nl, Independer.nl, and Consumentenbond.nl are helpful tools for finding the right plan.
Types of Policies:
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Restitutie (Free Choice Policy): Allows you to visit any healthcare provider. Higher premium.
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Natura (Contracted Care Policy): You must use the insurer’s contracted providers. Lower premium.
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Budget Policies: Cheapest but with very limited provider choices.
7. Switching Insurance Providers
You can switch health insurance providers once a year, during the open enrollment period, which runs from November 12 to December 31. The new policy takes effect on January 1 of the following year.
To switch:
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Compare policies using online tools.
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Apply for the new insurance.
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Cancel the old insurance (most new insurers can handle this automatically).
8. Health Insurance for Expats and International Students
Expats moving to the Netherlands must take out Dutch insurance within four months of registering. EU/EEA citizens may be able to use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) temporarily.
International students may remain on their home country’s insurance if they do not work, but those who take part-time jobs must register for Dutch health insurance.
For short-term stays, private international health insurance may be sufficient.
9. Children and Health Insurance
Children under 18 are automatically insured for free under a parent’s health insurance policy. They receive full coverage under the basic package and can also be added to a supplementary policy.
When they turn 18, they must:
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Get their own health insurance
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Start paying premiums
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May become eligible for zorgtoeslag
10. What Happens If You Don’t Get Insurance?
Failing to obtain Dutch health insurance within the required time can lead to:
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A warning letter from the CAK (Central Administration Office)
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Fines (around €400 per warning)
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Automatic enrollment into a basic policy, with premiums deducted from your salary or benefits
11. Final Thoughts
The Dutch health insurance system is an essential part of living in the Netherlands. Though it may seem complex at first—especially for newcomers—it is designed to provide universal access to high-quality care while keeping costs under control.
By understanding how the system works, knowing your rights and obligations, and using comparison tools, you can make informed decisions that best suit your needs and budget.
Whether you're a long-term resident, an expat, or a student, being well-informed about your healthcare coverage is not just a legal requirement—it’s a smart way to protect your well-being.