Base insurance (basisverzekering) in 2025

The base insurance stays the foundation of healthcare coverage in the Netherlands. For 2025, there are no significant changes to what is covered by this specific insurance vs. 2024. You can rely on this base insurance for essential healthcare services, such as:

• General practitioner (GP) visits
• Hospital care
• Prescription medications (there are exceptions)
• Maternity care
• Emergency care

The basic insurance ensures that everyone has access to necessary medical treatments. Though, the coverage is limited and additional care, such as dental care, isn’t covered by it and for this an additional insurance might be necessary. For more information about the base insurance, read this article.

The costs of the base insurance in 2025

While the services included remain largely unchanged, the costs will increase slightly in 2025, on average the monthly premium for base insurance is approximately €159, which is about €11 more than in 2024 (+7.4%). Check your current insurance company for their new rates if this will differ per provider. 

The deductible excess (Dutch: eigen risico) remains €385, which is in line to 2024. The deductible excess withholds costs that aren’t covered, and this is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for most healthcare costs before your insurance fully covers the expenses. Some services, like GP visits and maternity care, are excluded from the own risk.

Choosing the right health insurance in 2025

When selecting a policy, consider your household situation:

• Individuals: Choose based on your personal healthcare needs.
• Couples: Some insurers offer discounts or tailored policies for couples. Do you research and make sure you are still able to create your personal selection on coverage. If this is not the case, it may be advisable to check the outcome if each is taking their own insurance based on personal preferences.
• Families: Children under 18 are part of their parents insurance and covered for free, based on their parents base insurance and additional modules.

Who needs health insurance?
For all residents of the Netherlands the base insurance is mandatory, this is from the moment they are registered such as. Also, non-residents working in the Netherlands and paying Dutch income tax are obliged to get Dutch health insurance.

Children under 18 are automatically insured for free under their parents’ policies. Their coverage is similar to their parents, so both base and, possibly, additional insurances.

Collective Health Insurance

Many Dutch employers, organizations, or unions offer collective health insurance plans, ask your employer or association department if there is such a plan. These can provide discounts (typically up to 5%) on premiums and additional insurance options tailored to your group’s needs.

Tips for selecting the right insurance in 2025

1. Assess your needs: Consider your current and future healthcare needs, including regular treatments or prescriptions.
2. Compare policies: Use online comparison tools to find insurers offering the best value for your requirements (google: ‘zorgvergelijker 2025 Netherlands’)
3. Check coverage details: Ensure the insurance aligns with your needs, especially if opting for additional modules.
4. Consider collective plans: If available, these plans can save money and offer tailored coverage.

Important key dates - don’t miss them

To ensure continuous coverage, keep these important deadlines in mind:

• 31 December 2024: Deadline to cancel your current health insurance.
• 31 January 2025: Deadline to apply for new health insurance, which will be applied retroactively from 1 January 2025.

Proactive planning can prevent gaps, and with that additional costs, in coverage and ensure you make the most of your options and you get the best out of your insurance.

Additional insurance modules (aanvullende verzekering)

The base insurance covers the essential care, though many people choose additional insurance for a broader coverage and not being confronted with unexpected costs. These modules are optional and tailored to specific needs, such as:

• Dental care: Especially for adults, as dental care is not included in the base insurance, you can select a module for a certain amount to cover and the costs are increasing in accordance.
• Physiotherapy: Useful for those needing frequent physical therapy sessions as this is not covered in the base insurance and multiple sessions.
• Alternative treatments: Coverage for acupuncture, homeopathy, and other complementary therapies.
• Extensive maternity care: Beyond the basic coverage. Good to know is that this may be upgraded within the year, whilst other modules can only be added at the contract term in January of the new year.

Who should consider additional insurance modules?

• Individuals with specific healthcare needs, such as regular dental checkups or physiotherapy.
• Families who want additional coverage for children’s needs, for example.
• People engaging in high-risk activities or sports.

Conclusion on Health Insurance in 2025

Navigating health insurance in the Netherlands doesn’t have to be complicated. With a stable base insurance structure, additional options for specific needs, and clear deadlines, 2025 offers ample opportunity to secure the right coverage for you and your family. Take the time to evaluate your options, and make sure to act by the key dates to enjoy peace of mind throughout the year.

For personalized advice or further information, consult your insurer or a trusted comparison platform.

Stay covered, stay healthy!