25 Jul 2025
Navigating a new country’s healthcare system can be tricky, especially when language and cost are major concerns. If you’re an expat worker living in the Netherlands—or planning to move—it’s crucial to understand how the healthcare system works so you can protect your health and finances. This guide simplifies everything you need to know, whether you’re just settling in or helping your family back home by ensuring they receive proper care too.
The Netherlands has one of the best healthcare systems in Europe. It’s based on a mix of private insurance and public oversight. Every resident, including expats, is required by law to have basic health insurance (basisverzekering).
Once you register at your local municipality and receive your BSN (Citizen Service Number), you must take out Dutch health insurance within 4 months.
Your monthly premium for basic insurance is around €130, and there's a mandatory deductible (called Eigen Risico) of €385 per year as of 2025.
There are dozens of insurance companies in the Netherlands, but the government regulates what they must cover. This means you’ll get the same core services regardless of the provider—what changes are:
Popular service providers among expats include:
Tip: Use comparison tools like Zorgwijzer to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Your GP (huisarts) is your first point of contact for most medical issues. They’ll refer you to specialists when needed.
To register:
You can’t go directly to a hospital or specialist unless it's an emergency. Your GP must first give you a referral. Most hospitals and clinics in the Netherlands offer high-quality care, and waiting times are generally short compared to other countries.
In emergencies, call 112 for an ambulance. Emergency treatment is always covered under basic insurance. If you’re not insured, you will still receive care—but you'll be billed directly, which can be costly.
Healthcare isn’t free, but here are some smart ways to manage costs:
Managing health expenses while supporting your family abroad can be financially overwhelming. That’s why many expats in the Netherlands use secure digital platforms to send money to loved ones back home.
With rising medical costs worldwide, remittances are a lifeline. When you send money from the Netherlands through reliable services, you help cover medical bills, prescriptions, and health emergencies for your family.
That’s where platforms like ACE Money Transfer become valuable—helping you make every money transfer count with lower fees and faster delivery times. And thanks to online money transfer features, it only takes minutes to support those who matter most.
Yes, but you’ll need to pay the full cost upfront, which can be expensive. It’s highly recommended to get insured as soon as you receive your BSN.
Only emergency dental treatments are covered in basic insurance. For routine dental and optical care, you’ll need to purchase additional insurance.
Yes. Whether you're employed, self-employed, or unemployed, you’re still legally required to have Dutch insurance if you're living in the country.
You may face a fine from the Dutch authorities. Moreover, healthcare providers might refuse non-emergency services until you're properly insured.
Absolutely. ACE lets you transfer funds securely and quickly, ensuring your loved ones have access to healthcare when they need it most.
