Compare Dutch Health Insurance
By law, every resident in the Netherlands must have a Dutch basic health insurance package. Compare the most expat-friendly providers below.
The 4-Month Rule: You must take out insurance within 4 months of your BRP registration to avoid a retroactive fine. Still confused? Read our full guide.
Independent Information
Expat Holland is an independent, informative platform. We aim to educate expats on the Dutch healthcare system. We do not provide personal financial or medical advice, and our comparisons are purely objective. Always consult the official policy documents of a provider before making a decision.
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Zilveren Kruis
From € 147.45 /mo
Industry leader for expats due to their fully translated mobile app.
One of the largest providers in the Netherlands with a strong focus on international clients and a dedicated English app.
- Full English website and app
- Broad choice of contracted hospitals
- Free access to online GP
- Fast claim payouts
CZ
From € 145.85 /mo
Great service and value, but the app is not 100% English native.
A highly reliable, non-profit health insurer offering wide coverage and English translation support for major documents.
- Non-profit organization
- Excellent customer service
- English policy documents
- Generous supplementary options
Menzis
From € 146.75 /mo
Solid English support and fun health rewards, but BSN required.
Menzis offers competitive pricing and rewards members with points for healthy behavior through their 'SamenGezond' program.
- Clear English documentation
- Nationwide contracted hospitals
- Rewards program for healthy living
- Direct billing with most providers
About our Expat Score & Recommendations
The Expat Score (1-5 stars) is our editorial rating based specifically on how well a provider caters to internationals. We evaluate factors such as the availability of full English documentation, the quality of English customer support, and the flexibility of their onboarding process (e.g., whether they require a BSN immediately). Price is intentionally not a factor in this score.
Disclaimer: These ratings are based on our generic evaluation and are designed to help expats get started. This is not financial or personal advice tailored to your specific situation, usage, or household needs. Always verify the terms, conditions, and exact pricing on the provider's official website before signing a contract.
How does Dutch health insurance work?
Unlike countries with a national health service, the Netherlands uses a private, heavily regulated insurance system. You are legally required to take out a basic health insurance policy ("basisverzekering") with a Dutch provider.
- The 4-Month Rule: You must finalize your insurance within 4 months of your municipal registration (BSN). If you don't, you will be retroactively billed and potentially fined.
- Basic vs. Supplementary: The basic package covers GP visits, hospital care, and most prescriptions. Dental care for adults and physical therapy are NOT included in the basic package; you need supplementary insurance for these.
- Acceptance is Mandatory: Insurance companies are legally required to accept you for the basic package, regardless of your medical history or age.
The Deductible (Eigen Risico) Explained
The "eigen risico" is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for specialized healthcare before your insurance starts covering the costs. Visits to the General Practitioner (Huisarts) are always exempt from the deductible.
Mandatory Deductible
The legal minimum. You pay the first €385 of hospital visits, specialists, or prescriptions. You pay the highest monthly premium, but have the lowest risk.
Voluntary Maximum
You choose to increase your risk by €500. You pay the first €885 of specialized care. You get a discount on your monthly premium (saving ~€15-25/month).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all basic insurances the same?
Yes, the contents of the basic package ("basisverzekering") are determined by the Dutch government and are identical across all providers. You should choose a provider based on price, customer service, and whether they offer an English app.
Can I cancel or switch anytime?
No. In the Netherlands, you can only switch health insurance providers once a year, between November 12th and December 31st. The new policy will take effect on January 1st. Make sure to choose a provider you are comfortable with for the rest of the year.
Understanding the 4-Month Rule
The Dutch government gives you 4 months to choose an insurer, but the rules around retroactive billing can be confusing. Read our deep dive.
Read the Insurance Guide