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Understand when Dutch health insurance is required, what basic insurance covers, and how to compare providers, costs, excess, and extras.
This page helps you understand the health insurance category in the Netherlands. Standard (basic) health insurance is mandatory for everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands. The government defines what the basic package covers; all Dutch insurers offer the same core coverage. Differences between insurers are usually in price, policy type, contracted care, customer service, supplementary packages, and digital experience—not in the government-defined basic package.
Our health insurance guide and provider comparison pages are for information and decision support. Always confirm details, premiums, and coverage directly with the insurer.
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If you come to live or work in the Netherlands, you usually need Dutch health insurance as quickly as possible and no later than 4 months after arrival. If you have a residence permit, the policy must generally be effective from the date the permit comes into force. This can apply even if you already have insurance in another country. EHIC is for temporary stays and does not replace compulsory Dutch insurance for long-term residents or workers.
If you come to live or work in the Netherlands, you usually need Dutch health insurance as quickly as possible and no later than 4 months after arrival. This applies even if you already have medical insurance in another country.
Applies to: Employees, self-employed, and others who live or work in the Netherlands
Government.nl – When do I need health insurance?If you have a residence permit, you must take out Dutch health insurance within 4 months of the permit coming into force. The insurance must be effective from the date the residence permit comes into force. Premium may need to be paid retroactively if the policy starts retroactively.
Applies to: Anyone with a Dutch residence permit
Government.nl – Health insurance and residence permitInternational students who only study may have different insurance situations depending on their nationality and length of stay. Official student guidance applies.
Applies to: Students who do not work
Study in NL – Healthcare insuranceIf you study and also work in the Netherlands, Dutch health insurance may be compulsory. Check official student and employment guidance.
Applies to: Students who work part-time
Study in NL – Healthcare insuranceThe European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers essential medical care during a temporary stay in the EU. It does not replace compulsory Dutch health insurance if you live or work in the Netherlands long term.
Applies to: Short-term visitors; not long-term residents or workers
Netherlands Worldwide – EHICInternational (expat) health insurance can cover you before you move, in addition to Dutch insurance for travel and treatment abroad, or in some employer packages. It does not replace mandatory Dutch basic insurance if you live or work in the Netherlands.
Applies to: Expats before relocation; those with employer international plans; people wanting global cover alongside Dutch insurance
Government.nl – When do I need health insurance?If your situation is unclear (e.g. cross-border worker, specific visa, short contract), check the official Q&As and consider asking the insurer or a qualified advisor.
Applies to: Cross-border, short-term, or exceptional situations
Government.nl – More Q&As about health insuranceThe standard package is government-defined. GP visits, hospital care, prescription medicine and other covered care are handled under the Dutch system according to policy conditions. All insurers must offer the same standardized basic package. Additional insurance is optional.
The standard package is government-defined and the same for all insurers. It covers GP visits, hospital care, prescription medicine, and other care set out in the Health Insurance Act. All Dutch insurers must offer this same basic package.
Supplementary insurance (e.g. dental, physiotherapy, glasses) is optional. Coverage and premiums vary by insurer and package.
The mandatory excess is €385 per year for most care in the standard package. You pay this amount first before the insurer pays. Some policies allow you to choose a higher voluntary excess in exchange for a lower premium.
For some care or products, you pay a fixed contribution (eigen bijdrage). This is separate from the excess. Amounts are set by law or policy.
The right provider depends on your situation, risk tolerance, preferred providers, and whether you want additional cover. Compare these factors when choosing.
Premiums vary by insurer and policy type. Compare like-for-like (e.g. same excess choice) where possible.
The mandatory excess is €385. Some insurers offer a higher voluntary excess for a lower premium.
Restricted (natura) vs reimbursement (restitutie) or a combination. Affects which care providers you can use and how you claim.
Optional add-ons (dental, physio, etc.). Compare packages and limits if you need extras.
Not all insurers offer full English. Check the provider’s website or contact them if this matters to you.
App, online portal, and self-service for claims and policy changes can make day-to-day use easier.
How and how quickly you get reimbursed depends on policy type and insurer. Worth checking before you choose.
The right provider depends on your situation, risk tolerance, preferred providers, and whether you want additional cover. There is no single “best” provider for everyone.
Below: what each insurer does, typical costs, pros and cons, and who should consider them. Always confirm current premiums and terms with the provider.
Your comparison shortlist
Add up to 3 providers below to compare them side by side
One of the largest Dutch health insurers (Achmea). Broad care network, basic and supplementary packages; widely recognised by expats.
Typical cost
~€145–162/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who want a well-known insurer with a large network and optional extras.
Large Dutch insurer with a big customer base. Standard basic and various supplementary packages; solid option for daily cover.
Typical cost
~€142–158/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who want a big, established insurer with straightforward basic and supplementary cover.
Major Dutch health insurer with a range of basic and supplementary products. Often chosen for flexibility and customer service.
Typical cost
~€138–155/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who want flexibility in packages and a balance of price and service.
Major Dutch health insurer with a wide range of basic and supplementary products. Often chosen for flexibility.
Typical cost
~€140–158/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who want plenty of choice in basic and supplementary cover.
Dutch insurer offering basic and supplementary health insurance. Often positioned for straightforward cover and competitive pricing.
Typical cost
~€132–148/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who prioritise low premium and simple basic cover.
Part of Zilveren Kruis/Achmea; often aimed at younger and digital-savvy users with basic and supplementary options.
Typical cost
~€135–152/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who prefer managing insurance via app and want a modern, often cheaper option.
Dutch health insurer focused on direct sales and often competitive premiums. Basic and supplementary packages; part of Achmea.
Typical cost
~€130–148/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats looking for a lower-cost basic package with a recognised Dutch insurer.
Dutch health insurer with a focus on service and customer satisfaction. Basic and supplementary insurance; often competitive on price.
Typical cost
~€132–150/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who want a service-oriented insurer with competitive basic cover.
Dutch health insurer with a range of basic and supplementary products. Often chosen for flexibility and optional extras.
Typical cost
~€138–156/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who want flexible basic and add-on options from a recognised insurer.
Dutch health insurer offering basic and supplementary insurance. Often positioned for straightforward cover and competitive pricing.
Typical cost
~€128–145/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats who want simple, often cheaper basic cover.
Dutch health insurer with basic and supplementary packages. Often competitive on price; part of the Dutch market for standard cover.
Typical cost
~€130–148/mo
Basic package only; supplementary and excess options affect price.
Features / products
Pros
Cons
Who should choose them
Expats prioritising a low basic premium with standard Dutch cover.
International health insurance (expat or global health insurance) is designed for people who live, work, or travel across countries. It is not the same as Dutch basic health insurance. If you live or work in the Netherlands, you are still required to take out Dutch basic insurance; international plans may sit alongside it—for example for treatment abroad, pre-departure cover, or employer-sponsored packages.
International insurance can be relevant if you are not yet resident in the Netherlands and need cover before you move, if your employer offers an international plan as part of your assignment, or if you want additional worldwide cover in addition to your Dutch policy. Always check whether an international policy is accepted as meeting Dutch legal requirements; in most cases it does not replace the compulsory Dutch basic package once you are resident.
Below are examples of international health insurance providers that expats often consider. We do not rank or endorse; suitability depends on your situation, destination, and whether you also need Dutch basic insurance.
Global health insurance for expats and internationally mobile individuals. Flexible plans and optional coverage for treatment in the Netherlands and abroad.
Best for: Expats before or after moving, global coverage, employer-sponsored options
Plans and premiums vary by region and cover level; get a quote.
International health insurance for expatriates and globally mobile people. Plans can cover treatment in the Netherlands and worldwide.
Best for: Expats, international assignees, flexible geographic cover
Premiums depend on area, level of cover, and options.
Worldwide health insurance for individuals and families. Plans can include treatment in the Netherlands and direct settlement with many providers.
Best for: Expats and families wanting global cover including the Netherlands
Premiums vary by plan, region, and options.
International health benefits for expats and globally mobile employees. Coverage can include the Netherlands and other countries.
Best for: Employer-sponsored expats, international assignees
Typically offered through employers; individual plans may be available.
International health insurance for expats and families. Plans can cover treatment worldwide including in the Netherlands.
Best for: Expats seeking mid-market international cover
Premiums depend on area and plan level.
Basic package premiums typically run around €130–165/mo depending on insurer and excess choice. The standard package includes the mandatory excess. The mandatory excess is €385 per year for most care in the standard package (Government.nl). Co-payments (eigen bijdrage) are different from excess. Supplementary insurance adds cost depending on the package.
Typical range for basic (mandatory) package; varies by insurer, policy type, and excess choice.
Check current quote with the insurer.
Official national rule for most care in the standard package.
Government.nl
Supplementary cover (dental, physio, glasses, etc.) adds cost depending on the package level.
If your income is below the threshold, you may be eligible for a healthcare allowance to offset part of the premium. Amount depends on income and situation.
Zorgtoeslag (planned guide)You must take out insurance from the date your permit starts. Getting a policy and understanding excess and claims in the first months can be confusing; our guide and official sources help.
Rules depend on whether you only study or also work. Use official student guidance (e.g. Study in NL) and confirm with your institution or insurer.
Children are often included in a parent’s policy; family packages and supplementary options vary. Compare with your household in mind.
If you expect regular care, policy type (restitution vs natura), contracted providers, and claims process may matter more than the lowest premium.
Not all insurers offer full English. Check provider websites and contact them before committing.
Dental, physiotherapy, glasses, and other extras vary by insurer. Compare limits and exclusions if you need them.
International (expat) insurance can cover you before you move or alongside Dutch insurance for travel. It does not replace mandatory Dutch basic insurance once you live or work in the Netherlands. See the International Health Insurance section for providers and when it applies.
You have a residence permit and will work. You need Dutch basic health insurance from the start of your permit.
Common mistakes
Delaying beyond 4 months; Assuming home-country insurance is enough
You are an EU citizen moving to the Netherlands for work. Dutch health insurance is compulsory once you live or work here.
Common mistakes
Relying on EHIC for long-term residence; Missing the 4-month deadline
You are an international student and do not work. Your insurance obligation may depend on nationality and length of stay.
Common mistakes
Assuming you don’t need any insurance; Missing deadlines if you start working
You study and have a part-time job. Dutch health insurance is often compulsory once you work.
Common mistakes
Assuming student status alone exempts you once you work; Missing the 4-month rule
You are moving as a couple or family. Each adult needs their own basic insurance; children are often included in a parent’s policy.
Common mistakes
Only one partner taking out insurance; Not checking child inclusion rules
You want to balance cost with ease of use, English support, or preferred care network.
Common mistakes
Choosing only on price without checking policy type and support; Ignoring excess and co-payments
Use these tools to plan your move and document readiness; they help you stay on track before and after arrival.
Yes. Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is legally obliged to take out standard Dutch health insurance. This includes expats and international workers. You must do so as quickly as possible and no later than 4 months after you come to live or work in the Netherlands. Additional (supplementary) insurance is optional.
As soon as possible, and no later than 4 months after you arrive. If you have a residence permit, the insurance must generally be effective from the date the permit comes into force. Premium may be due retroactively if the policy starts from that date.
Yes. Even if you have medical insurance in another country, you are still required to take out Dutch basic health insurance once you live or work in the Netherlands. Your foreign policy does not replace the compulsory Dutch one.
The basic package is defined by the government and is the same for all insurers. It includes GP visits, hospital care, prescription medicine, and other care set out in the Health Insurance Act. The National Health Care Institute (Zorginstituut Nederland) explains the system in English.
Eigen risico is the mandatory excess. It is €385 per year for most care in the standard package. You pay this amount first before the insurer pays. Some insurers let you choose a higher voluntary excess in return for a lower premium. It is separate from co-payments (eigen bijdrage) for specific care or products.
Yes. All Dutch insurers must offer the same government-defined basic package. The core coverage is standardized. Differences are in premium, policy type (e.g. natura vs restitution), customer service, supplementary packages, and digital experience.
Insurers set their own premiums and may offer different policy types (e.g. restricted network vs reimbursement), optional higher excess, and different levels of service. So the price and how you use the same basic cover can vary.
Basic insurance covers limited dental (e.g. up to age 18) and limited physio in some cases. For broader dental or physiotherapy, you need optional supplementary insurance. Coverage and cost vary by insurer and package.
No. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers essential medical care during a temporary stay in the EU. It does not replace compulsory Dutch health insurance if you live or work in the Netherlands long term.
You must take out Dutch health insurance within 4 months of the permit coming into force, and the policy must be effective from the date the permit comes into force. You may need to pay premium retroactively if the start date is backdated.
It depends. International students who only study may have different rules (e.g. home insurance or a student policy may apply). If you also work, Dutch health insurance is usually compulsory. Check Study in NL and official government Q&As for your situation.
There is no single “best” provider. The right choice depends on your situation: premium, policy type, need for English support, preferred care network, supplementary needs, and how you prefer to manage claims. Compare options and confirm terms directly with insurers.
International (expat or global) health insurance covers you across countries and is often used before you move, for employer-sponsored assignees, or as a supplement to Dutch insurance for travel and treatment abroad. If you live or work in the Netherlands, you still need Dutch basic health insurance; an international policy alone does not usually fulfil that legal requirement. Use international insurance for pre-arrival cover, global travel, or alongside your Dutch policy as needed.
Generally no. If you are resident or working in the Netherlands, you must take out Dutch basic health insurance. International policies are not a substitute for this legal requirement. They can be used before you relocate, for treatment outside the Netherlands, or in addition to your Dutch policy. Check Government.nl and your insurer for your specific situation.
Editorial disclosure
About this list
This list is editorially curated for relevance to expats. We add and update providers based on public information.
We compare insurers commonly relevant to expats; always confirm coverage and price with the provider.
Inclusion does not mean endorsement. Always verify current pricing, scope, and availability directly with the provider.
Editorial policy · How we rank services · Methodology · Affiliate disclosure
