Healthcare System

As of 1 Januari 2006 the two-tier public-private healthcare system was replaced by the Basisinsurance, or a base level health insurance for everyone (Zorgverzekeringswet).

It is obligatory for all residents of the Netherlands to have one of the basic health insurance plans.
From 01-01-2008 several changes do apply.
All resident children under the age of 18 are insured as part of their parent insurance policies for free.
There are exemptions and other requirements for some expats from non-EU/EER countries.

The government has opted to have private insurance companies provide the coverage to use market forces to cut healthcare costs. In addition the insurers are not permitted to refuse anyone the basic package regardless of age, employment status or general health, but may refuse anyone for supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering).

One of several concerns with the new system is the rising costs since its implementation; 10% this year (2007) alone, with more increases to be expected next year. Another is the lack of checks over the industry. Also, the government continue to change the coverage of the basic insurance package per 1 januari 2008. For example, in 2008 the birth control pill will be included once again, as well will a yearly check-up with the dentist.

However, pre-natal screening for women under 36 years has been removed. So, it is essential that you check your policy carefully. See www.zn.nl for the latest changes.

Equally worrying is the lack of clear information concerning new immigrants and residents, often with the side effect that you may get several different answers to the same question by different groups.

In general, if you are from the EU/EER, or have a residence permit that is not temporary or based on study, you are legally required to have the minimum, basic insurance.

Further, your residence may be at risk if you do not get insured within 4 months of officialy residing in the Netherlands.

Some other expat specifics
- If you are here on a temporary stay, or are a foreign student, you are not eligible to have the basic, Dutch health insurance, but will be required to have a health insurance, either international, or from your country of residence.

- If you are applying for residency, international health insurance is only considered acceptable for the periode until you receive your residency, once you are officially a resident you will be required to have Dutch health insurance.

- Important: Your eligibility for resident status is partially depending on having sufficient healthcare coverage.
Low-income earners may (depending on residency status) be eligible for a healthcare allowance (Zorgtoeslag) from the tax office. For singles earning less then 26.071,- this can be up to a maximum of EUR 432 per year and for couples the income limit is EUR 42.880 per year with an allowance of EUR 864. But if your combined income is uner EUR 17.905 you have right to an allowance of maximum EUR 1.223. As children to the age of 18 are included free with their parent policy, the number of children has no impact.

You can request a form for zorgtoeslag at any tax office. It will be paid automatically into your bankaccount once a month.

Until Januari of 2008, under a no-claims regulation, you can receive a deduction on your premium. Doctor’s appointments won’ t be counted under the no-claims system.