National Healthcare System
The basic principle of our healthcare system is that healthy individuals contribute to the medical costs of those who are ill. Healthy people pay the same premium as those who are chronically ill or elderly, while their doctor’s visits are less frequent in comparison. This system ensures that everyone stays well insured against medical costs.
National Healthcare Insurance
Under the Health Insurance Act (Zorgverzekeringswet), all residents of the Netherlands are required to take out healthcare insurance. This insurance covers standard medical costs, such as visits to general practitioners (GPs), hospital treatments, pharmaceutical costs, and urgent necessary medical care abroad (up to the maximum Dutch rate). For more details, refer to the the insurance terms and conditions.
Each year, the government determines what is covered by the national healthcare scheme. Insurance companies also have obligations, known as open enrollment, which require them to accept everyone who applies for national healthcare insurance, regardless of age or health status.
Supplementary insurances
Supplementary insurance can be taken out for costs that are not included in the national healthcare insurance (or basic insurance). For example, this may cover medical expenses such as physiotherapy, dental care, or additional reimbursement for urgent necessary medical care abroad. More information can be found in the the insurance terms and conditions.
Reimbursements and premiums vary by insurer. Insurers may set requirements, and individuals can be denied access to these insurance packages. The government does not interfere in these matters.
Healthcare insurance premium
In the Netherlands, the insured person pays a nominal premium rate to the insurer. The amount of the premium is determined by the insurers. The Health Insurance Act (Zvw) also stipulates an income-related contribution to be paid by the insured individual. The more someone earns, the higher the contribution. Individuals under the age of 18 are required to have insurance by law but are insured without paying a premium. Parents are responsible for this. Premium payments apply starting from the age of 18.
Mandatory excess
Healthcare remains expensive despite the premium and income-related contribution. For this reason, national healthcare insurance has a an excess. The government has determined that the excess for 2025 will remain the same as for 2024, set at €385 per calendar year.