Dutch Health Insurance: Expat Comparison
Dutch health insurance for expats in 2026. Monthly premiums, English support, zorgtoeslag thresholds, and how to choose the best zorgverzekering.
How Dutch Health Insurance Works
The Dutch healthcare system is based on mandatory private insurance. Every resident must purchase a basisverzekering (basic health insurance) from a private insurer. The government defines the minimum coverage — all insurers must offer the same basic package.
Key features:
- Basisverzekering — Mandatory basic insurance covering GP, hospital, medication, maternity, mental health
- Aanvullende verzekering — Optional supplementary insurance (dental, physio, glasses)
- Eigen risico — Mandatory deductible of €385/year (2026) before insurance covers specialist care
- Zorgtoeslag — Government healthcare allowance for lower incomes (see toeslagen guide)
Basic Insurance Comparison (2026)
All insurers offer the same basic coverage by law. The main differences are premium price, customer service quality, and English-language support. Here are the major insurers popular among expats:
| Insurer | Monthly Premium (2026) | English Support | Online Portal | Expat Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CZ | ~€140–€155 | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Good | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Large network; good reimbursement speed |
| Zilveren Kruis | ~€140–€160 | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Good | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Largest insurer in NL; Achmea group |
| VGZ | ~€135–€150 | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Good | ⭐⭐⭐ | Good supplementary options |
| Menzis | ~€135–€150 | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Good | ⭐⭐⭐ | Strong in eastern NL |
| ONVZ | ~€150–€170 | ✅ English | ✅ English | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Premium option; best English support; higher cost |
| Aon (Expat) | ~€155–€180 | ✅ Full English | ✅ English | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Designed for expats; international network |
| Unive | ~€130–€145 | ❌ Dutch only | ✅ Basic | ⭐⭐ | Budget option; Dutch support only |
Premiums are approximate and vary by package choice. Check Zorgwijzer.nl for live comparisons.
Eigen Risico (Own Risk / Deductible)
The eigen risico is a mandatory annual deductible before your insurance covers specialist and hospital care:
- 2026 mandatory amount: €385 per year
- Voluntary increase: You can choose up to €885 total deductible for a lower monthly premium (saving ~€20–€30/month)
- Exempt from deductible: GP visits, maternity care, and children under 18
Zorgtoeslag Income Thresholds
The zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) helps lower-income residents pay for health insurance. It is based on your verzamelinkomen (aggregate income):
| Year | Max Income (Single) | Max Income (Partners) | Max Monthly Zorgtoeslag |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | ~€38,520 | ~€48,224 | ~€135 (single) / ~€185 (partners) |
| 2024 | ~€38,520 | ~€48,224 | ~€140 (single) / ~€190 (partners) |
| 2025 | ~€38,500 | ~€48,500 | ~€140 (single) / ~€190 (partners) |
| 2026 | ~€38,000 | ~€48,000 | ~€140 (single) / ~€190 (partners) |
Amounts are estimates. Check toeslagen.nl for exact figures and the eligibility calculator.
Switching Insurance
You can switch health insurer once per year during the switching period:
- Switching window: November 12 – December 31 (for coverage starting January 1 of the next year)
- No penalties: Insurers cannot refuse you for basic insurance — guaranteed acceptance
- No health checks: Pre-existing conditions do not affect basic insurance premiums
- Supplementary insurance: Can be refused or have higher premiums based on health — apply during the same switching window for best results
30% Ruling & Health Insurance
The 30% ruling affects health insurance in these ways:
- Zorgtoeslag eligibility: Lower verzamelinkomen may qualify you for healthcare allowance (~€140/month)
- ZVW contribution: The income-dependent healthcare contribution (bijdrage Zvw) on your payslip is calculated on taxable income after the 30% deduction — so you pay less ZVW
- No impact on premiums: Health insurance premiums are the same regardless of the ruling
Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance mandatory in the Netherlands?
Yes. Every person registered as a resident in the Netherlands must have basisverzekering within 4 months. The fine for being uninsured is calculated by the CAK and starts at approximately €468 per uninsured 3-month period.
Can I keep my international insurance?
Generally no. Once you register at a Dutch municipality and work under Dutch social security, you must switch to a Dutch health insurance policy. Exceptions exist for posted workers with an A1/E101 certificate, who remain covered under their home country's system.
What does basic insurance cover?
The government-defined basic package covers: GP visits, hospital care, prescribed medication, mental health care, maternity care, ambulance, dental care for children under 18, and certain paramedical care. Not covered in basic: adult dental, most physiotherapy, glasses/contacts, and alternative medicine.
Can I get zorgtoeslag as an expat?
Yes. If your verzamelinkomen is below the threshold and you have Dutch health insurance, you qualify for zorgtoeslag regardless of nationality. Apply at toeslagen.nl with your DigiD.