Health insurance
Everyone living in the Netherlands must have adequate health insurance. Arrange your policy before arriving.
Coverage
- Bachelor’s or Master’s programmes: at least first 12 months
- Exchange students: entire exchange period
- Start date: ideally 1 September, earlier if arriving sooner (not mandatory for visa).
Requirements
- Cover all medical costs (doctor, hospitalisation) with no upper limit
- Ensure coverage for Dutch tariffs
- Carry proof of insurance at all times
- Special needs? Check with providers if medications or conditions are covered.
You can read more about healthcare in the Netherlands and the right to healthcare during a temporary stay on the Zilveren Kruis website.
Working whilst studying?
If you take on a part-time job or internship in the Netherlands, you may need to take out a Dutch basisverzekering (basic health insurance). Without it, you could be fined and required to pay premiums retroactively. Aon Student Insurance (website) offers policies tailored for international students, covering various study and research activities, and can also include partners or children. Taking out Dutch basic health insurance may also make you eligible for healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag); see the the Rijksoverheid (Dutch Government) website for details.
Health & Safety
We hope your stay in the Netherlands is safe and enjoyable. In case of medical issues or emergencies, such as ambulance, police, or fire services, our student website provides useful guidance.