Healthcare in the Netherlands
Health insurance is compulsory in the Netherlands, and which policy you need depends on whether you are working. Getting this wrong can leave you uninsured or fined, so understand the two situations before you arrive. Rules change — confirm the current position officially.
If you are only studying
If you are not working, you need private international health insurance. Several providers offer policies designed for international students; choose one that meets the requirements your institution and the IND set.
If you take paid work
The moment you take paid work — including a paid internship — you are legally required to switch from private cover to the standard Dutch basic health insurance (the basisverzekering). This is a statutory obligation, not optional, and you must arrange it promptly after starting work.
Because work triggers this change, plan your insurance around your job before you accept it — see our working in the Netherlands guide for the wider rules, including the employer's TWV permit.
Day-to-day healthcare
Care in the Netherlands typically starts with a GP (huisarts), who refers you on to specialists where needed. Register with a local GP after you arrive, and budget for insurance within your overall living costs.
Official sources: Government of the Netherlands, Study in NL (Nuffic), Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).