How Does Healthcare Work in the Netherlands?

Everything you need to know to stay healthy and safe

When you move to a new country, it’s normal to have questions — especially about healthcare. At Work in Holland, we want to make sure you feel prepared and supported. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide about the Dutch healthcare system. From insurance to visiting a doctor, here is what you need to know.

Health insurance is required

In the Netherlands, everyone must have health insurance. This is called basic insurance (basisverzekering). It covers most important medical services, such as:

• Visiting your family doctor (huisarts)

• Hospital care

• Some medicines

You can also choose to get extra insurance. This is for things like dental care or physiotherapy.

Important: You must arrange your insurance within 4 months of arriving in the Netherlands. We will help you with this after you arrive.

How to visit a doctor (huisarts)

Your huisarts is your first contact for medical help. If you feel sick or have a health problem, you should make an appointment with them.

They will:

• Check your health

• Give you advice or medicine

• Send you to a specialist if needed

Most Dutch doctors speak English, so communication is easy.

Hospitals and urgent care

If you need urgent medical help, you can go to a hospital’s emergency department (spoedeisende hulp). For less urgent problems, always visit your huisarts first.

In very serious situations, you can call 112, which is the Dutch emergency number.

Getting medicine

If you need medicine, your huisarts will give you a prescription. You can collect it at a pharmacy (apotheek). There are also drugstores for simple medicines like paracetamol or vitamins.

Costs and payments

Healthcare in the Netherlands is good, but it is not free. You pay for your insurance every month. In 2025, the average price is about €140–€160 per month.

You also have an amount you need to pay yourself each year, called eigen risico. In 2025, this is €385. After this amount is used, your insurance pays for most other costs.

What if you need help?

At Work in Holland, we help you arrange your health insurance when you arrive. We also explain:

• How to find and register with a huisarts

• How to get your BSN number (needed for insurance)

• How to understand your coverage

You will never be left alone to figure this out.

In short

The Dutch healthcare system is safe, fair, and well-organised. With your health insurance, a good huisarts nearby, and our support, you will always have access to the care you need. Moving to a new country brings many changes, but your health is one thing you can feel confident about.