Unlike many countries, in the Netherlands basic health insurance (basisverzekering) is compulsory for all residents over 18, regardless of nationality. If you arrive and fail to take out a policy within your first four months, you risk a fine and being automatically assigned to an insurer — usually one of the most expensive on the market.
What the basic plan covers — and what it doesn't
The basic package is standardised by law: every insurer offers the exact same core coverage, though they differ in price and provider networks. It includes GP visits (huisarts), hospitalisation, prescription medication, basic mental health care, and most specialist referrals.
What is not covered: dental care (except emergencies and under-18s), physiotherapy except for chronic conditions, glasses and contact lenses, or most alternative medicine. For these there is supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering), taken out separately and entirely optional.
The own risk (eigen risico)
Each year there is a compulsory excess called the eigen risico, set at €385 for 2024. This means the first €385 of annual medical costs — excluding GP visits — are paid by you. In exchange, you can choose to voluntarily raise your eigen risico to pay a lower monthly premium.
The GP (huisarts): your first point of contact
In the Netherlands, the huisarts is the cornerstone of the system: you need a referral from your GP to see any specialist. This means you should register with a local GP as soon as you arrive. Many practices have waiting lists, so it is worth looking for one even before you need medical attention.
An important detail: GP visits do not count towards your eigen risico — in other words, they are effectively free beyond your monthly premium. This encourages people to use their GP as first contact rather than going straight to A&E, which in the Netherlands is reserved for genuine emergencies.
Zorgtoeslag: the health insurance subsidy
If your income does not exceed certain thresholds — roughly €38,520 per year for individuals in 2024 — you are entitled to the zorgtoeslag, a monthly government contribution towards the cost of your insurance. The amount varies by income and can reach up to €154 per month. Many expats do not realise they qualify, especially during their first year in the country.