Expat Insurance Services in Netherlands

The Netherlands has a complicated semi-public health insurance system as of the year 2006. Everyone living in the Netherlands is now required to get basic health insurance from a Dutch insurance company that fully covers all medical expenses, including ambulance, for most types of treatment. The cost of this basic policy is around 95 euros a month in addition to income withholdings and other fees, although it is free for all children in the Netherlands under the age of 18.

 

Insurers compete to offer lower fees, and it is becoming easier to switch insurance companies. Some employers in the Netherlands offer cheaper group health plan rates to their own employees. Those with low income may qualify for a health care grant to purchase the basic health insurance. Only certain types of dental treatment such as false teeth are covered for adults in the basic health plan, however.

 

Foreigners while in the Netherlands are also required to have some form of health insurance, however, doctors are still legally required treat anyone in an emergency regardless of their insurance status. Whether or not foreigners in Holland are required to purchase the basic Dutch health insurance is determined by how long they are staying in the country.