How to Find Affordable Health Insurance in the Netherlands as an Expat
How to Find Affordable Health Insurance in the Netherlands as an Expat . Moving to the Netherlands as an expat comes with many exciting opportunities, but it also brings practical responsibilities—like finding the right health insurance. If you’re new to the country, you might feel overwhelmed by the Dutch healthcare system and the mandatory insurance requirements. The good news? With the right information, you can easily find affordable health insurance that suits your needs and budget.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find and choose the best health insurance in the Netherlands as an expat, explain your legal obligations, and help you compare providers for cost-effective coverage in 2025.
🧭 Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the Netherlands for Expats?
Yes, it is. If you live or work in the Netherlands, you are legally required to take out basic health insurance (basisverzekering) from a Dutch provider within four months of registering with your local municipality (gemeente).
This applies to:
- EU/EEA citizens residing long-term
- Non-EU expats with a residence permit
- Foreign students working part-time
- Highly skilled migrants
Failure to get insurance on time can result in fines from the CAK (the government health insurance authority).
💡 Understanding the Dutch Healthcare System
The Dutch healthcare system is ranked among the best in the world. It’s a mix of public regulation and private insurance. Here’s how it works:
- Basic Health Insurance (Basisverzekering): Covers essential medical care like GP visits, hospital stays, maternity care, emergency care, and most medications.
- Optional Add-ons (Aanvullende Verzekering): Covers dental, physiotherapy, vision, alternative medicine, etc.
- Own Risk (Eigen Risico): The first €385 (as of 2025) of non-GP care each year is paid out-of-pocket.
🔍 How to Find Affordable Health Insurance as an Expat
1. Use Comparison Websites (Zorgvergelijkers)
Start by using Dutch insurance comparison platforms. These allow you to filter policies by:
- Monthly premium
- Coverage options
- Deductibles
- Add-ons (dental, physiotherapy)
✅ Popular comparison tools:
These sites are in Dutch, but many include an English version or easy-to-follow filters.
2. Adjust Your Deductible (Eigen Risico)
The higher your own risk, the lower your monthly premium. In 2025, the standard deductible is €385. You can voluntarily increase it up to €885 to reduce your monthly cost.
Example:
- Deductible at €385 → Higher premium
- Deductible at €885 → Lower premium
This is ideal if you’re young and healthy and don’t anticipate using much healthcare.
3. Avoid Unnecessary Add-ons
Many expats automatically select extra coverage for dental, optical, or alternative treatments—even if they don’t need them.
💡 Tip: Start with just the basic package, and you can always add extras later if needed.
4. Look for Expat-Friendly Providers
Some insurers have dedicated English support, simplified applications, and contracts suited for international residents.
✅ Recommended for Expats:
- Zilveren Kruis: English-speaking support and solid nationwide coverage
- ONVZ: Known for good service and optional English documents
- Aon (Student Insurance): Ideal for international students or temporary residents
- HollandZorg: Specializes in expats and seasonal workers
5. Check if You’re Eligible for Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)
Low- to middle-income earners in the Netherlands may qualify for zorgtoeslag, a monthly subsidy that helps cover insurance costs.
In 2025, you may be eligible if:
- You earn under €38,500 (single) or €48,000 (with partner)
- You are a legal resident with Dutch health insurance
📝 Apply via the Belastingdienst (Dutch Tax Office) website.
6. Review Your Policy Every Year
Health insurance contracts run from January to December. Each November, Dutch providers announce new premiums and policy updates.
🚨 Important:
- You can switch insurers every year before December 31st.
- Always compare new plans in November–December to ensure you’re still getting the best deal.
🏆 Top Affordable Health Insurance Providers for Expats (2025)
Here’s a quick comparison of popular expat-friendly health insurers:
| Provider | Monthly Premium (Basic) | English Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zilveren Kruis | €135 – €145 | ✅ Yes | Large network, many add-ons available |
| HollandZorg | €130 – €140 | ✅ Yes | Tailored for expats & seasonal workers |
| ONVZ | €140 – €155 | ✅ Yes | Premium service and flexibility |
| CZ | €135 – €150 | ⚠️ Limited | Strong reputation, but Dutch-only site |
| Menzis | €130 – €145 | ⚠️ Limited | Budget-friendly options |
📌 Checklist for Choosing the Right Policy
✅ Compare premiums with and without add-ons
✅ Check English-language support and contracts
✅ Understand what’s covered in basic vs. supplementary packages
✅ Consider your age, medical history, and lifestyle
✅ Apply for zorgtoeslag if eligible
✅ Choose a deductible that matches your risk tolerance
✈️ Health Insurance Tips for Expats in the Netherlands
- Don’t delay registration—insurance is mandatory within 4 months of moving.
- Always keep a digital and physical copy of your insurance card.
- Learn how to find a huisarts (GP)—they’re your first point of contact for care.
- Emergency care is always covered, but non-emergency hospital visits require a referral.
- Most insurers allow online claim filing and reimbursements via mobile app.
🧾 Conclusion: Stay Insured, Stay Protected
Finding affordable health insurance as an expat in the Netherlands might feel complicated at first, but with the right strategy, you can save money and still get great coverage. Start by comparing basic policies, choose a deductible that suits your health profile, and check for government subsidies. Whether you’re in the Netherlands short-term or settling in for the long haul, the right health insurance gives you peace of mind, legal compliance, and access to world-class care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is health insurance mandatory in the Netherlands for expats?
Yes. If you’re living or working in the Netherlands, you are legally required to get basic Dutch health insurance within four months of registering at your local municipality. This applies to both EU and non-EU residents.
2. Can I use international health insurance in the Netherlands?
Not if you’re a resident. Once registered in the Netherlands, international health insurance isn’t sufficient—you must get Dutch health insurance to comply with the law.
3. What does the basic Dutch health insurance (basisverzekering) cover?
It covers essential medical care, including:
- Visits to the GP (huisarts)
- Emergency hospital treatment
- Specialist referrals
- Maternity care
- Prescription medications
4. How much does health insurance cost per month in the Netherlands (2025)?
On average, monthly premiums range from €130 to €155 for basic coverage. Costs vary by insurer, coverage level, and chosen deductible.
5. What is ‘eigen risico’ (own risk) and how does it affect my premium?
“Eigen risico” is the annual deductible you pay before insurance kicks in (standard is €385). You can voluntarily raise it (up to €885) to reduce your monthly premium.
6. Can I get financial help with health insurance as an expat?
Yes. If you earn below a certain threshold, you may qualify for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance). It’s a monthly subsidy paid by the Dutch government to help cover your premium.
7. Which Dutch insurers are best for expats?
Popular expat-friendly insurers include:
- Zilveren Kruis
- ONVZ
- HollandZorg
- Aon Student Insurance
These providers offer English-language support and simplified onboarding.
8. Do I need to choose a GP (huisarts) in the Netherlands?
Yes. Your huisarts (general practitioner) is your first point of contact for all non-emergency medical issues. Most insurers require you to be registered with a GP.
9. Can I switch health insurance providers?
Yes. You can switch insurers once a year during the annual enrollment period (Nov 12 – Dec 31). New coverage starts on January 1st.
10. What happens if I don’t get insurance on time?
If you don’t get Dutch health insurance within 4 months of registering, you may receive fines from the CAK and be retroactively enrolled into a plan at your expense.
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