Dutch Healthcare & Health Insurance: What Every Expat Must Know

Health Insurance is Mandatory

In the Netherlands, every resident is legally required to have basic health insurance (basisverzekering) within 4 months of registering with the gemeente. If you don't arrange it yourself, the government will assign you a provider and fine you. EU citizens and non-EU residents with valid permits are all required to be insured.

How the Dutch Healthcare System Works

The Netherlands has a mixed public-private healthcare system. Private insurers provide coverage, but the government sets the basic package and regulates premiums. This ensures universal access while maintaining competitive pricing.

Three levels of care:

1. Huisarts (GP) — Your first point of contact for everything. You must register with a local GP. They refer you to specialists.

2. Specialist care — Hospitals, specialists, physiotherapy. Referral from GP usually required.

3. Dentist & extras — Not covered by basic insurance. You need supplementary (aanvullende) insurance.

What the Basic Package Covers

• GP visits
• Hospital care
• Prescription medication (within formulary)
• Mental health (limited sessions)
• Maternity care
• Emergency care

Not covered by basic insurance:

• Dental (except for children under 18)
• Physiotherapy (first 9 sessions)
• Glasses/contact lenses (adults)
• Alternative medicine

Average Costs (2026)

• Basic monthly premium: €130–€160/month
• Mandatory deductible (eigen risico): €385/year — you pay the first €385 of non-GP costs yourself
• Supplementary insurance: €15–€50/month depending on coverage

Popular insurers: Zilveren Kruis, VGZ, Menzis, CZ, DSW. Compare at Zorgwijzer.nl or Independer.nl.

Zorgtoeslag (Healthcare Allowance)

If your income is below a certain threshold, you may be entitled to a monthly zorgtoeslag (healthcare benefit) from the government — up to ~€160/month. Apply via the Belastingdienst (tax office) at toeslagen.nl. This significantly reduces the cost of insurance for lower and mid-income earners.

Registering with a GP (Huisarts)

Finding a GP is your first healthcare task. Many practices have long waiting lists. Tips:

• Register immediately after arriving — don't wait until you're sick
• Check praktijkzoeker.nl to find GPs accepting new patients
• Bring your BSN and address proof
• Some practices have digital registration

Dental Care

Dental care is NOT included in basic insurance. Adults must either:

• Pay out-of-pocket (routine check-up ~€50–€80)
• Take supplementary dental insurance (€10–€30/month)

Children under 18 have dental covered under basic insurance.