Dutch Fluency 
Choosing Health Insurance in the Netherlands
Just moved to the Netherlands? Then you must take out Dutch health insurance within four months. This is mandatory for everyone who works, studies, or lives in the Netherlands.
Choosing health insurance can be tricky. Which policy fits you? What's the difference between basic and supplementary? In this guide, we explain it step by step. You'll also get example sentences you can use when choosing.
Basic insurance: what's mandatory?
The basic insurance covers standard healthcare costs. Think of the GP, hospital, medication, and emergency care. Everyone in the Netherlands needs this insurance. The government decides what's in the basic package.
Each year you can switch to another insurer. Pay close attention to the premium, the deductible, and which healthcare providers have contracts. You can choose a natura, restitution, or combination policy.
Supplementary insurance: what else do you need?
- I want supplementary insurance for the dentist, because I need a check-up every year.
- Do you have a package with physiotherapy? I exercise a lot and sometimes have complaints.
- I'm looking for insurance that covers alternative treatments, like acupuncture.
- Can I take out supplementary insurance for glasses and contact lenses?
How to compare health insurance
Use a comparison site like Zorgwijzer or Independer. Fill in your details and look at the monthly premium, the deductible, and the coverage. Also check the conditions for care abroad and whether your own hospital has a contract.
Common mistakes when choosing health insurance
- Signing up too late: you'll get a fine from the government. Sign up right away.
- Only looking at the price: cheap insurance sometimes has less favorable contracts with hospitals.
- Not taking the deductible into account: the mandatory deductible is €385 (check with DUO or the CvTE). You can voluntarily increase it for a lower premium.
How to practice this in Dutch
Want to practice words and sentences about health insurance? In the Dutch Fluency NT2 app, you'll find exercises for A2 and B1. You'll learn to have conversations at the insurer, ask questions about policy conditions, and understand letters. Practice now with the module on money and insurance.
Practice Dutch with the A2 course →Practice now
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Frequently asked questions
When do I need to take out health insurance?
Within four months of registering with the municipality. Do it right away to avoid a fine.
What's the difference between natura and restitution?
With natura, you go to contracted care providers. With restitution, you get a reimbursement for non-contracted care. Restitution is usually more expensive.
Can I change my health insurance every year?
Yes, you can cancel each year until December 31. Then you switch to a new insurer as of January 1.
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