Taking out health insurance

Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands must have basic health insurance. Health insurance helps to pay for medical costs.  

What do you need?

If you come to live in the Netherlands for an extended period, you need to be registered in the Personal Records Database (BRP) so that you can take out health insurance. You also need a BSN (citizen service number) and a bank account. Visit our page on registration to find out more about registering with the municipality or the RNI. 

Comparing health insurance policies 

There are a number of health insurers in the Netherlands. You can compare health insurance policies online. For example, you can compare the price (premium) and the types of healthcare that are covered. All basic insurance policies cover the same matters. The price, however, can vary from one insurer to the next. 

Applying 

Once you have made your decision, you can submit an application to your chosen insurer. You will then receive your policy and healthcare card (possibly as digital documents). 

Take out health insurance in time 

When you come to live or work in the Netherlands, you must take out health insurance within four months. If you do not do this, you can be fined and will have to pay the healthcare costs yourself.  

Changing your health insurance 

You can switch to another insurer at the end of the year. The period during which you can switch starts on 12 November and ends on 31 December. Many people switch insurers to get a better price or better terms and conditions.