Healthcare FAQ: Your Essential Guide for Expats

Mandatory Health Insurance & Registration

Do I need Dutch health insurance as an expat?

Yes, if you live or work in the Netherlands, having basic Dutch health insurance ('basisverzekering') is legally mandatory. You must take out a policy within four months of registering with your municipality (BRP). Learn more.

How do I register with a GP ('huisarts')?

You should register with a local GP practice soon after arriving and getting Dutch health insurance. Search online for "huisarts [your city] engels" for English-speaking practices. Bring your BSN, ID, and insurance details. Read more.

Is there a deadline to get health insurance?

You must take out basic health insurance within four months of your BRP registration date. Coverage is retroactive, meaning you'll owe premiums from your registration date. Missing this deadline can lead to fines. Learn more.

GP, Specialist Care & Emergencies

What is the role of a GP ('huisarts') in Dutch healthcare?

Your GP is your first point of contact for almost all medical concerns, acting as a "gatekeeper" to specialist care. They handle most common illnesses, provide referrals, and manage your medical history. GP visits are exempt from the 'eigen risico'. Read more.

How do I get a referral to a medical specialist?

You almost always need a referral from your GP to see a medical specialist (e.g., dermatologist, cardiologist) in a hospital or clinic. Discuss your symptoms with your GP, who will issue an electronic or paper referral if specialist care is necessary. Learn more.

When should I call 112 for an emergency?

Dial 112 only for life-threatening situations or when immediate police, fire, or ambulance assistance is required (e.g., heart attack, severe accident, fire, crime in progress). For non-life-threatening urgent medical issues outside GP hours, call the 'Huisartsenpost'. Read more.

What is the Huisartsenpost and when should I use it?

The 'Huisartsenpost' is an out-of-hours GP service for urgent medical issues that cannot wait until your regular GP's office reopens, but are not life-threatening. Always call them first for an assessment. Learn more.

Dental & Mental Health Services

Is dental care covered by basic health insurance for adults?

No, basic Dutch health insurance generally does NOT cover routine dental care for adults (18+), such as check-ups, cleanings, or fillings. You will need to pay out-of-pocket or take out separate supplemental dental insurance. Dental care for children under 18 is covered. Read more.

How can expats access mental healthcare in the Netherlands?

Start by consulting your GP ('huisarts'). They can offer initial support, refer you to a POH-GGZ (mental health professional within the GP practice) for mild issues, or provide a referral to a specialized psychologist or psychiatrist for more complex concerns. Many professionals offer English-speaking services. Learn more.

Maternity Care for Expectant Parents

Who provides maternity care in the Netherlands?

For low-risk pregnancies, a midwife ('verloskundige') is your primary care provider throughout pregnancy, birth (home or outpatient hospital), and the initial postnatal period. A gynaecologist is involved for high-risk pregnancies or complications. Read more.

What is 'kraamzorg' and is it covered by insurance?

'Kraamzorg' is unique postnatal home care provided by a maternity nurse during the first week after birth. It includes medical checks, baby care guidance, and light household tasks. It is almost entirely covered by basic health insurance, with a small personal contribution often covered by supplemental insurance. Learn more.

Can I choose between a home birth and a hospital birth?

Yes, for low-risk pregnancies, you can choose between a home birth ('thuisbevalling') or an outpatient hospital birth ('poliklinische bevalling'), both supported by your midwife. Medically indicated hospital births ('klinische bevalling') are led by a gynaecologist. Read more.

Costs, 'Eigen Risico' & Supplemental Insurance

What is 'eigen risico' and how does it work?

'Eigen risico' is your mandatory annual deductible (€385 in 2025) for most healthcare costs covered by basic insurance (excluding GP visits, maternity care, and child healthcare). You pay this amount yourself before your insurance starts reimbursing costs for the year. Learn more.

Do I need supplemental health insurance ('aanvullende verzekering')?

Supplemental insurance is optional and covers services not included in the basic package, such as extensive dental care for adults, extra physiotherapy, or alternative medicine. It's worth considering if you anticipate needing these services frequently. Read more.

How do I compare health insurers?

You can compare insurers annually (mid-November to December 31st) based on premiums, 'eigen risico' options, supplemental packages, policy types (Natura/Restitutie), and expat-friendliness (English support). Online comparison websites are helpful tools. Learn more.