Dutch Basic insurance for expats

Signing up only takes a few minutes. Once you send us your details, the provider confirms your policy within a few days. Your coverage can start right away or from any future date you choose.

For most visas, health insurance isn’t a legal requirement in the Netherlands.

However, Dutch basic health insurance is fully recognized by Dutch authorities, employers, and universities so you’re always covered and compliant.

Yes, but not through Feather.

Once you register your Dutch address with your local municipality (gemeente), you’ll receive your BSN (Burgerservicenummer) automatically. You’ll need it to activate your Dutch health insurance and access other public services like taxes and healthcare.

No physical cards are used in the Dutch system.

Once your policy is active, you’ll get a confirmation with your policy number (polisnummer). Healthcare providers can verify your coverage digitally using this number and your BSN.

Eligibility depends on your situation:

• If you work in the Netherlands (even part-time) or pay Dutch income tax → you must have Dutch basic health insurance.
• If you’re from outside the EU/EEA → you can get Dutch health insurance if you have a permanent residence permit.
• If you’re a student without a job → you’re not eligible for Dutch public insurance but can stay on private or expat coverage.
• If you work for a non-Dutch employer and pay tax abroad → you’re not eligible for Dutch insurance and should keep international coverage.

Feather helps you find which option fits your life best - Dutch or expat insurance.

Your general practitioner (huisarts) is your first point of contact for most healthcare needs.

Once your insurance is active:

1. Register with a GP in your area.
2. Bring your BSN or policy number when you visit.
3. Your GP can prescribe medication or refer you to specialists or hospitals.

For urgent care outside office hours, contact the local huisartsenpost (after-hours clinic) — or call 112 in emergencies.

Each person needs their own Dutch health insurance policy.

If your partner or family also lives and works in the Netherlands, they’ll each need individual coverage.

If they live abroad, their eligibility depends on local agreements and EU/EEA or treaty-country rules. Feather can help you check what applies to your family.

Your monthly premium is paid automatically with your preferred payment method.

The average Dutch basic health insurance premium is around €159 per month (2025), depending on your chosen deductible. If your income is below a certain level, you may qualify for a zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) - up to €131/month for singles or €250/month for families, provided by the Dutch tax office.

Basic Dutch health insurance covers:

• Dental care for children under 18
• Emergency dental treatment after accidents

For adults, routine dental care (check-ups, fillings, cleanings) isn’t included — but you can add optional dental coverage for an extra monthly premium.

Yes. Dutch health insurers are legally required to accept everyone for the basic health insurance, no matter your age, health status, or pre-existing conditions.

Your coverage starts as soon as your policy becomes active.

Yes. If you work in the Netherlands or pay Dutch income tax, you’re required to get Dutch basic health insurance within four months of starting work or receiving your residence permit.

• If you don’t, the Dutch authorities may issue fines.
• If you’re not employed in the Netherlands, you can stay on a private expat insurance plan instead.

Health insurance premiums are reviewed each year by the Dutch government. Most insurers announce new prices in November, and updates take effect on January 1st.

If your premium changes, we’ll let you know right away.

You can switch or cancel your Dutch health insurance once per year, usually before December 31st, with one month’s notice. If you leave the Netherlands, stop working here, or switch to private expat insurance, you can cancel earlier - and Feather can take care of it for you.

Dutch employers don’t provide insurance directly. If you work for a company in the Netherlands, you’ll need to take out your own Dutch basic health insurance.

Some employers may reimburse part of your premium - check your contract or ask HR to confirm.