Studying in the Netherlands and health insurance
When you study in the Netherlands, it's important that you get the right health insurance. The kind of insurance you need depends on your situation.
Flowchart for the right health insurance
Are you a foreign student? With this flowchart you can see if you have the right health insurance for your situation.
Important
If you don't need Dutch health insurance now, this can change in the future. Do you start working next to your studies? Then you need Dutch health insurance. You can download the pdf below, to you use it again if your situation changes.
Download larger image (pdf, 46 kB)
View full description of flowchart
Frequently asked questions about Dutch basic health insurance
What is Dutch health insurance?
Dutch basic health insurance is a government-controlled insurance plan that covers essential healthcare costs.
Who needs Dutch health insurance?
If you’re an international student and you work next to your studies, or have a paid internship* in the Netherlands.
The rules also apply if you:
- work 3 hours per week only during summer
- have a zero-hour contract.
The government sees it all as work.
* In a paid internship it depends on which country you are from. Use the flowchart above.
According to the flowchart I need Dutch basic health insurance. Why should I take out a Dutch health insurance?
Because it’s required by law. When everyone is insured we can keep the cost of health care affordable. Without proper health insurance, you risk fines from the CAK (€528).
How is a Dutch basic health insurance different from a private or international health insurance?
Unlike private, European or other international, a Dutch basic health insurance covers the same services for everyone and is accepted by all doctors and hospitals in the Netherlands. International students can only take out Dutch basic health insurance if they work or have a paid internship. Unlike international or private insurance where everyone can apply.
Can I apply for Healthcare Benefit?
Yes, after you get Dutch basic health insurance, you can apply for a healthcare benefit at the Belastingdienst, or go to www.toeslagen.nl. With this benefit you can pay a part of your health insurance premium.
What happens if you don’t have the correct health insurance?
The government (CAK) will find out if you're incorrectly insured. You can receive letters and even fines (€528), which you need to pay on top of your medical bills.
Got more questions about Dutch health insurance?
Check out the SKGZ website for everything you need to know about health insurance in the Netherlands. You can also chat with them or give them a call. Or ask the student service desk from your school to help you with your questions.