Health Insurance for Expats in the Netherlands

International Health Insurance for Expats in the Netherlands

If you are moving to or visiting the Netherlands, it’s worth knowing that their healthcare system is world-class; however, it’s still very important to secure health insurance to access the best healthcare treatments and ensure financial protection.

This guide tells you all you need to know about health insurance in the Netherlands by shedding light on the country’s healthcare system and the insurance landscape. Read on to learn more, or click below to obtain a no-obligation, free quote.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in The Netherlands

Overview of Dutch Public and Private Healthcare

The healthcare system in the Netherlands is a unique symbiosis of both publicly and privately funded medical services. While there is universal healthcare managed by the government, this is largely implemented by private insurers.

Therefore, all Dutch citizens and residents living and working in the Netherlands are required to have a health insurance plan. Children below the age of 18 are not required to pay for health insurance.

Public Healthcare in the Netherlands

The Dutch healthcare system is widely recognized for its accessibility and high-quality services, funded through mandatory health insurance and government oversight. Due to its quality, the general public can rely on this system for all their healthcare needs.

It operates under three primary compartments:

1. Long-term care: Covers chronic conditions and disability-related costs, such as wheelchairs.
2. Basic medical care: Includes general practitioner (GP) visits, short-term hospital stays, and specialist consultations.
3. Supplementary care: Covers additional services like dental care, physiotherapy, and cosmetic procedures, depending on the individual's insurance policy.

Listed below are the key features of Dutch public healthcare:

• Mandatory Insurance: All residents must purchase at least a basic health insurance policy, which covers essential care like GP visits and hospital services. Newcomers must arrange insurance within four months of arrival.
• Primary Care (GPs): General practitioners are the first point of contact for most healthcare needs. A referral from a GP is required to access specialist care. GPs often emphasize preventive care and responsible use of medical interventions.
• Referral-Based Specialist Care: Accessing specialists requires a GP's recommendation, ensuring that care is streamlined and appropriate for patient needs.
• High Standards and Outcomes: The system is ranked highly internationally, emphasizing quality and cost-effective care.
• Patient Responsibility: Dutch healthcare encourages patients to actively participate in maintaining their health, including lifestyle adjustments and preventive measures.

Listed below are some notable public hospitals in the Netherlands:

• UMC Utrecht (Utrecht): Offers comprehensive medical services with a focus on research and education.
• Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC, Leiden): Combines high-quality patient care with advanced scientific research​.

Private Healthcare in the Netherlands

Private healthcare in the Netherlands supplements the country's excellent public system by offering more choices, enhanced comfort, and quicker access for those willing to pay a premium. Here’s what expats need to know:

• Insurance: Private insurance offers more choice of providers and quicker access to specialists. Expats and international residents not eligible for the Dutch public system may find private international health insurance essential​.
• Coverage: Private insurance can provide shorter waiting times, increased comfort during hospital stays, and access to services like cosmetic procedures and alternative treatments that public insurance does not cover. It also allows for tailored packages, such as maternity or senior-focused care​.
• Cost: While private healthcare in the Netherlands is generally more expensive than public care, it offers higher convenience and flexibility. Prices vary based on the provider, type of insurance, and extent of coverage​.
• Doctors: Most doctors in the Netherlands operate primarily within the public system, but private specialists and clinics are available. You can directly consult private specialists without a GP referral in most cases, which can reduce delays in accessing care​.
• Clinics: Private clinics in the Netherlands focus on elective and specialized treatments, often providing services like minor surgeries, cosmetic procedures, and advanced diagnostic testing. These clinics cater to patients seeking more personalized care and privacy​.
• Pharmacies: Pharmacies (apotheken) support both the public and private systems by providing medications, consultations, and reviews for chronic conditions. Many now offer online services for added convenience​.

Here is a list of some of the best private and internationally recognized private hospitals in the Netherlands, known for their excellent healthcare services:

• Erasmus Medical Center (Rotterdam): One of the largest and most advanced university medical centers in Europe, focusing on patient care, education, and research. It is a leader in medical innovation and high-quality care​.
• Radboud University Medical Center (Nijmegen): A teaching hospital affiliated with Radboud University, renowned for its emphasis on research, education, and top-tier patient care. It ranks among the top hospitals in the Netherlands​.
• Acıbadem International Medical Center (Amsterdam): Part of the Acıbadem Healthcare Group, this hospital is known for providing specialized treatments and comprehensive medical services with modern technology​.
• Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital (Amsterdam): Specializing in cancer care and research, this hospital is affiliated with the Netherlands Cancer Institute and is internationally acclaimed for its oncology expertise​.
• Maastricht University Medical Center (Maastricht): A leader in medical education and healthcare, known for its research-oriented approach and patient-focused services​.

Health Insurance Options for Expats in the Netherlands

Expats in the Netherlands can choose between basic health insurance under Dutch statutory health insurance or private health insurance under a private insurer. The latter is strongly recommended to secure timely access to healthcare and safeguard from extensive medical costs.

Public Health Insurance for Expats in the Netherlands

There are two main types of statutory health insurance in the Netherlands: basic insurance and long-term care. Dutch residents are insured by the government for long-term care by default but are mostly responsible for their own basic health insurance.

Basic health insurance plans cover the costs of services like general practitioners (GPs), specialist doctors, medication, and maternity care. You can check the list on the government’s website.

Here are the main characteristics of the Dutch statutory health insurance system (basisverzekering):

• Mandatory for Residents: All residents of the Netherlands, including those working in the country, must have basic health insurance. Children under 18 are covered without direct cost, with their premiums paid by the government​.
• Comprehensive Coverage: The basic insurance covers essential healthcare services, including general practitioner (GP) visits, hospital care, maternity care, prescribed medications, and limited therapies. Certain costs, like dental care, are fully covered for those under 18​.
• Premiums and Excess: Adults pay a monthly premium to their chosen insurer, averaging €1,200 annually. There is also a mandatory "own risk" deductible (eigen risico), set at €385 for 2024.
• Health Insurance Allowance (Zorgtoeslag): Lower-income residents can apply for a government subsidy to offset insurance premiums, making healthcare more accessible​.
• Funding System: Health insurance is funded through a combination of nominal premiums, income-dependent employer contributions, and government contributions for minors.

Private Health Insurance for Expats in the Netherlands

Private health insurance in the Netherlands is often chosen by expats to enhance their healthcare options, access services not included in the mandatory basic insurance, and receive more personalized care.

It is particularly appealing for expatriates living and working in the Netherlands, especially those requiring coverage for non-standard treatments, international healthcare, or additional services like dental and optical care.

Listed below are the key characteristics of private health insurance in the Netherlands:

• Supplementary Coverage: Offers benefits beyond the statutory health insurance, such as extensive dental care, alternative medicine, and enhanced physiotherapy coverage​.
• Employer-Sponsored Plans: Many employers provide supplementary insurance packages as part of employee benefits, partially or fully covering premiums​.
• Flexible Plans for Freelancers and Self-Employed: Expats working as freelancers or entrepreneurs can access tailored insurance plans with flexible coverage options suited to their unique needs​.
• International Coverage: Some private plans are designed for global healthcare access, including repatriation, medical evacuation, and care during international travel, which is especially valuable for expats frequently crossing borders​.
• Tailored Expat Policies: Insurers offer expat-friendly plans with features such as multilingual customer support, direct billing agreements with hospitals, and simplified claims processes​.

International Health Insurance Plans for Expats in the Netherlands

Numerous international insurance companies, including Cigna, AXA, Allianz, April International, Bupa Global, and countless more, provide numerous coverage options to expats living in the Netherlands.

In the sections that follow, we will compare the various service providers and the features offered by their respective plans.

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

Cigna offers global health plans with different tiers (Silver, Gold, and Platinum) that cover services such as hospitalization, inpatient and day patient treatments, emergency evacuation, and preventive care. This flexibility makes Cigna a preferred option for those needing adaptable coverage.

Some examples of shared coverage by all Cigna insurance plans include:

AXA

AXA Global health insurance provides various levels of customizable coverage, including options for hospitalization, outpatient treatments, emergency care, and medical evacuation. AXA’s plans are popular among expats for their flexibility, with coverage for a wide range of health services.

Some examples of shared coverage by all AXA insurance plans include:

Allianz

Allianz offers international insurance plans that can cover hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostics, and outpatient care. Expats in the Netherlands can add riders for dental and optical services to any basic plan, providing a tailored insurance experience that accommodates different health needs.

Some of the basic coverage for their plans includes:

April International

April International specializes in health insurance tailored to expats, offering plans that cover hospitalization, outpatient services, dental, and maternity. Known for user-friendly mobile claims and support, April International has a 24/7 telemedicine service and a vast direct billing network.

Some of the shared coverage across their plans are:

Factors to Consider When Choosing Health Insurance in the Netherlands

When selecting health insurance as an expat in the Netherlands, understanding the system's unique structure and evaluating your specific needs are key to making an informed choice. Consider these factors carefully when picking a policy:

• Mandatory Basic Coverage: Dutch law requires all residents and workers to have basic health insurance, which provides coverage for essential medical services, including GP visits, hospital care, and prescribed medication.
• Supplementary Insurance: While the basic package is comprehensive, it excludes services like adult dental care, extended physiotherapy, and alternative treatments. Many expats opt for supplementary insurance to cover these additional needs.
• Cost of Premiums and Deductibles: Basic health insurance premiums average €159 per month, with deductibles starting at €385 annually. Some insurers allow higher deductibles to lower monthly premiums.
• International and Travel Coverage: Basic insurance typically covers emergency care abroad but not planned treatments. Expats who travel frequently might benefit from international insurance plans that include comprehensive global coverage and medical evacuation​.
• Family and Dependents: Children under 18 are automatically included in their parents’ basic health insurance at no extra cost. However, if you have dependents, ensure your insurance covers their specific needs, especially for additional or specialized care​.
• Insurer Selection: All insurers in the Netherlands offer the same basic coverage, but they differ in customer service, supplementary options, and additional perks. Compare insurers based on premiums, reviews, and service quality to find the best fit for you​.
• Employer-Sponsored Plans: Some employers provide health insurance as part of employee benefits, covering basic premiums or offering discounts on supplementary plans. If employed, check whether your organization offers such support​.

Health and Safety Tips for Expats and Travelers in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a safe environment, but it’s important to know emergency services contacts, road safety guidelines, and local etiquette. However, understanding health and safety specifics is crucial for a smooth stay. Here's a guide tailored to the Netherlands:

• Emergency Services: Dial 112 for immediate police, fire, or medical assistance. This EU-wide number is free and operates 24/7.
• Healthcare Access: Register with a local GP (huisarts) to access the healthcare system. GPs act as gatekeepers for specialist referrals and hospital care.
• Cycling and Road Safety: Cycling is integral to Dutch culture, but follow traffic rules strictly. Use designated bike lanes, signal intentions, and watch for other cyclists and pedestrians. Helmets are not mandatory but are recommended for safety.
• Public Transportation and Pickpocketing: The public transit system is efficient and widely used, but petty theft occurs, especially in busy train stations and tourist areas like Amsterdam Central. Keep personal items secure and be vigilant in crowded spaces.
• Weather Preparedness: Winters are wet and chilly, with icy conditions requiring caution on roads and sidewalks. Summers bring long daylight hours, so wear sunscreen and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
• Protests and Strikes: Peaceful demonstrations are common and can disrupt public transport or city services. Monitor local news to stay informed and avoid affected areas.
• Local Laws and Etiquette: Carry a valid ID at all times, as it's required by law. Respect cycling lanes, use pedestrian crossings, and understand that Dutch directness in communication is a cultural norm rather than rudeness.

Get a Health Insurance Quote Today!

As is the case for all Dutch citizens and residents, expats in the Netherlands will need to have at least a basic health insurance plan from a Dutch provider. This is a way for the government to regulate health insurance plans and the quality of the coverage.

If you are looking for a private health insurance plan, Pacific Prime’s brokers can help you find one that suits your exact needs. Along with this, the policies will provide you with coverage such as dental and maternity protection, outpatient treatment, and more.

Get in touch with us immediately if you need assistance or have any inquiries about our online quote comparison system.