Insurance in the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide

The Netherlands is known for its high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, and robust social systems — and one of the cornerstones of its well-functioning society is its comprehensive insurance sector. Whether you are a Dutch citizen or an expat moving to the Netherlands, understanding the different types of insurance, especially health insurance, is crucial for living legally and securely in the country.

In this article, we explore the key types of insurance in the Netherlands, their legal requirements, how to apply, and useful tips for newcomers.

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1. Health Insurance (Zorgverzekering)

Mandatory Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for all residents of the Netherlands, including expats who live or work in the country. The Dutch health system is based on a dual-level model: basic insurance (basisverzekering) and optional supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering).

Basic Health Insurance

The basic package is regulated by the government and must be offered by all insurance companies. It covers:

• General practitioner (GP) visits

• Hospital care and surgeries

• Prescription medication

• Maternity and obstetric care

• Emergency services

• Mental health services

The monthly premium varies depending on the provider but generally ranges between €120 to €150 per month (as of 2025). In addition, there is an annual deductible (eigen risico), which is set by the government. In 2025, the deductible is €385.

Supplementary Insurance

This is optional and covers services not included in the basic plan, such as:

• Dental care for adults

• Physiotherapy

• Glasses and contact lenses

• Alternative medicine

Supplementary plans differ widely in cost and coverage, so it’s important to compare offers.

Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag)

Low-income residents may be eligible for healthcare benefits from the Dutch government to help cover their insurance premiums. This can be applied through the Belastingdienst (Tax Office).

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2. Car Insurance (Autoverzekering)

Mandatory Liability Insurance

If you own a car in the Netherlands, you are legally required to have at least third-party liability insurance (WA-verzekering). This covers damage or injury you may cause to others with your vehicle.

Other Types of Car Insurance

• WA+ (Beperkt Casco): Covers theft, vandalism, fire, and some natural damage.

• All-risk (Volledig Casco): Offers the most comprehensive coverage, including damage to your own vehicle, even if you're at fault.

Factors Affecting Premiums

Premiums vary based on:

• Driver’s age and driving experience

• Type of vehicle

• Residential area

• No-claim discount history

You can compare car insurance providers via comparison websites like Independer or Pricewise.

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3. Home Insurance

There are two main types of insurance when it comes to homes in the Netherlands:

Home Contents Insurance (Inboedelverzekering)

This insures your belongings inside the home against theft, fire, and water damage. It covers items like:

• Furniture

• Electronics

• Clothing

• Appliances

This is especially important if you rent a property, as the landlord's insurance does not cover your personal items.

Building Insurance (Opstalverzekering)

If you own your home, you’ll need building insurance to cover structural damage to the property, including:

• Roofs

• Walls

• Kitchens and bathrooms (fixtures)

• Garages and sheds

Homeowners with a mortgage are typically required to have this insurance by their lender.

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4. Liability Insurance (Aansprakelijkheidsverzekering)

Personal liability insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended. It covers you if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property or injure another person.

For example:

• Your child breaks a neighbor’s window.

• Your dog bites someone.

• You spill wine on a friend’s expensive carpet.

Liability insurance is affordable, with premiums starting as low as €5 per month and offering coverage between €1 million and €2.5 million.

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5. Travel Insurance

For Dutch residents who travel frequently, travel insurance (reisverzekering) can provide coverage for:

• Medical emergencies abroad

• Trip cancellations or interruptions

• Lost or stolen baggage

• Accidents during sports or activities

You can choose between short-term or annual travel insurance, depending on how often you travel.

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6. Life Insurance (Levensverzekering)

Life insurance in the Netherlands is available in different forms:

• Term Life Insurance (Overlijdensrisicoverzekering): Pays out a lump sum in case of death within a certain period. Often required when taking out a mortgage.

• Whole Life Insurance (Levenslange verzekering): More expensive, but provides lifelong coverage.

• Funeral Insurance (Uitvaartverzekering): Covers costs related to your funeral, such as cremation or burial.

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7. Disability and Income Protection Insurance

If you're self-employed (ZZP’er), you are not automatically covered for income in the event of illness or disability. In such cases, it’s essential to consider:

• Disability Insurance (Arbeidsongeschiktheidsverzekering – AOV): Ensures income if you cannot work due to illness or injury.

• Sick Leave Insurance (Ziekteverzuimverzekering): Covers your income during short-term illness.

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8. Insurance for Expats and Internationals

Many expats underestimate the complexity of the Dutch insurance landscape. Here are some key tips:

• Register with your municipality (gemeente) and obtain a BSN (citizen service number) before applying for insurance.

• If you are an international student, you may be exempt from Dutch health insurance and can use international insurance, but this depends on your employment status.

• Use tools like Zorgwijzer.nl to compare health insurance plans in English.

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9. How to Choose the Right Insurer

When selecting an insurance provider in the Netherlands, consider the following:

• Reputation and customer service

• Coverage terms (always read the small print)

• Claim process and digital accessibility

• Premiums vs. coverage balance

• Language support – some insurers cater specifically to expats and offer services in English

Popular Dutch insurance companies include:

• CZ

• Menzis

• VGZ

• Achmea (Interpolis, Zilveren Kruis)

• Ditzo

• FBTO

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Conclusion

Insurance is an essential aspect of living in the Netherlands. From mandatory health insurance to highly recommended personal liability and home content insurance, navigating Dutch insurance can seem daunting — but it ensures peace of mind and legal compliance.

For expats and new residents, it’s critical to research and compare options, understand your legal obligations, and seek advice when necessary. The Dutch system is built to be fair and efficient, and with the right knowledge, you can confidently make the best insurance decisions for your life in the Netherlands.