Health Insurance Comparison

Yes. Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands must have basic health insurance (basisverzekering). You must register within 4 months of arriving in the Netherlands or starting work. Failure to do so can result in a fine from the CAK (Central Administration Office).

Basic health insurance (basisverzekering) covers GP visits, hospital care, prescription medications, mental healthcare, maternity care, ambulance transport, and some paramedical care. The coverage is standardized by law — every insurer must offer the same basic package. Differences between insurers are in price, service quality, and supplementary packages.

Eigen risico is your annual deductible. The mandatory minimum for 2026 is €385. You can voluntarily increase it up to €885 to lower your monthly premium. Choose a higher deductible if you rarely visit specialists or hospitals. GP visits, maternity care, and care for children under 18 are exempt from the eigen risico.

Yes, if your income is below the threshold. For 2026, single individuals earning under approximately €38,520 gross per year can receive up to €123/month. Couples with a combined income under approximately €48,672 can receive up to €246/month combined. Apply through Toeslagen.nl (you need a DigiD).

You can switch your basic health insurance every year. Cancel your current policy before December 31, and your new policy starts on January 1. Your new insurer handles the cancellation of your old policy. Supplementary insurance may have different switching rules and acceptance is not guaranteed.

ONVZ, CZ, and Zilveren Kruis are widely recommended for expats due to their English-language websites and customer support. ONVZ is particularly popular among expats for its free choice of provider policy and premium English service, though it has the highest basic premium. CZ and Zilveren Kruis offer a good balance of English support and competitive pricing.