Health insurance in the Netherlands is mandatory, but the type of insurance you need depends entirely on whether you are just studying or also working.
The rules are strict, and the fines for being uninsured (when you should be) can exceed €400. Here is how to stay compliant and save money.
1. When is Dutch Public Insurance Mandatory?
You must take out basic Dutch health insurance (Basisverzekering) if:
- You take a part-time job. Even if you only work 1 hour a week, you must switch to a Dutch public plan immediately.
- You do a paid internship that pays at least the Dutch minimum wage.
If you are only studying and not working:
- EU Students: You can use your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) from your home country.
- Non-EU Students: You must have private international student insurance (like Aon or Swisscare).
2. Basic Dutch Insurance (Basisverzekering)
If you do start working, you can choose any private insurer (e.g., Zilveren Kruis, Menzis, VGZ). They all offer the same "Basic" package required by law.
- Cost: ~€140 - €160 per month.
- Eigen Risico (Deductible): The first €385 of medical costs each year are paid by you. This does not apply to GP visits, which are always free.
3. Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)
The high cost of Dutch insurance is offset by a government subsidy called Zorgtoeslag.
- Who is eligible: Almost every student who is required to have Dutch basic insurance and has a low income.
- The Benefit: In 2024/2025, the allowance is approx. €120 per month, meaning your net cost for insurance is only ~€30.
- How to apply: You apply via the Toeslagen website using your DigiD.
You cannot get Zorgtoeslag if you only have private insurance (like Aon). You can only get it if you have the mandatory Dutch "Basisverzekering."
4. Private Student Insurance (Aon / Swisscare)
If you aren't working, these plans are much cheaper (~€40 - €60 per month).
- Coverage: They cover emergency care, repatriation, and often include third-party liability and home contents insurance.
- Note: If you get a job, you must cancel this insurance and switch to a public one immediately.
5. Summary Table
| Status | Insurance Type | Cost | Eligible for Allowance? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Only Studying (EU) | EHIC (from home) | Free | No |
| Only Studying (Non-EU) | Private (Aon/Swisscare) | ~€50/mo | No |
| Working (EU or Non-EU) | Basic Dutch Insurance | ~€150/mo | Yes (~€120 back) |
Not sure if you need to switch?
Our insurance tool checks your contract to see if you're legally required to buy Dutch insurance.
6. How to Register with a Doctor
Regardless of your insurance, you should register with a local Huisarts (General Practitioner) as soon as you arrive.
- Don't wait until you're sick. Many doctors have waiting lists or "full" patient rosters.
- GP Visits: In the Netherlands, you always see a GP first. They are the "gatekeepers" to hospitals and specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I work without insurance?
The CAK (the agency that monitors insurance) will find you via your tax records and send you a fine of approx. €450.
Does insurance cover dental care?
Basic insurance only covers dental for people under 18. If you are over 18, you need an "additional" package (aanvullende verzekering) or you must pay out of pocket.
What is the EHIC?
It is a free card that gives you access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in any of the EU countries.