Healthcare system in the Netherlands: everything you need to know

The Dutch healthcare system is known for its high quality, efficiency, and accessibility. It’s a mix of public regulation and private service delivery, making it somewhat unique compared to other European countries. If you’re moving to the Netherlands, understanding how the system works—and what you’re responsible for—is essential.

How the dutch healthcare system works

Healthcare in the Netherlands is based on mandatory health insurance and universal access. Everyone who lives or works in the country is legally required to have basic health insurance (basisverzekering).

Here’s how it’s structured:

• Government-regulated, privately provided: The government sets the coverage requirements and regulates prices, while private insurance companies provide the actual coverage.
• Obligatory insurance: Everyone over 18 must purchase a basic health insurance policy from a registered Dutch provider.
• Children under 18 are automatically insured under their parents’ policy at no extra cost.

Basic health insurance (Basisverzekering)

The basic insurance package is defined by the government and includes:

• General practitioner (GP) consultations
• Hospital care and specialist treatment
• Emergency services
• Maternity care
• Some prescription medications
• Mental health support

All insurers offer the same basic coverage, but premiums and additional services may vary.

Additional insurance (Aanvullende Verzekering)

You can choose to purchase supplementary insurance for things not covered in the basic package, such as:

• Dental care (especially for adults)
• Physiotherapy
• Glasses and contact lenses
• Alternative treatments (e.g., acupuncture)

Supplementary insurance is optional and differs from one provider to another.

How much does health insurance cost?

• Monthly premiums: In 2025, the average monthly premium is around €140–€160 for basic coverage.
• Own risk (eigen risico): You pay the first €385 of certain healthcare costs per year out of pocket (excluding GP visits and maternity care). After that, the insurance starts covering the costs.

Employers do not usually cover your health insurance, so you’ll need to budget for it independently.

Family doctor (GP)

The general practitioner (huisarts) is your first point of contact for most medical needs. They:

• Treat minor health issues
• Provide referrals to specialists
• Maintain your medical records

To register, find a GP near your home and contact their office directly. Many practices may have waiting lists, so it’s wise to register shortly after you arrive.

Emergency Services

In case of an emergency, call 112 for immediate ambulance, police, or fire service support.

For urgent but non-life-threatening medical care, you can contact your local huisartsenpost (after-hours GP service).

Pharmacies and Prescriptions

Prescriptions are issued by GPs or specialists and can be filled at any apotheek (pharmacy). Many medications are covered partially or fully by your insurance.

Healthcare and the BSN

To access Dutch healthcare, you’ll need a BSN (burgerservicenummer)—your citizen service number. It’s required for registering with a GP, getting insurance, and more.

Do you qualify for dutch healthcare?

If you’re legally living and/or working in the Netherlands, you must get insurance and are entitled to full access to the system. Students from the EU or with temporary visas may have exceptions or special rules.

To sum things up:

• Health insurance is mandatory for everyone living or working in the Netherlands.
• You can choose your insurer and doctor, but must buy at least the basic insurance package.
• Emergency care is always available, even without insurance, but you’ll be billed later if uninsured.
• Register with a GP early—many won’t accept walk-ins or non-registered patients.