You can also take out supplementary insurance to cover additional healthcare provisions, such as physiotherapy or dental care.
If you need emergency medical care, you can go to the emergency department at a hospital or an out-of-hours GP service.
You will also be entitled to preventive healthcare in the form of, for example, vaccinations, health check-ups and information on healthy living.
Care in Amsterdam
If you live in Amsterdam, you will be able to receive care from GPs, hospitals and other care providers. Amsterdam UMC is a large hospital in the city.
If you need emergency care, you can attend a hospital emergency department. Outside office hours you can contact an out-of-hours GP service.
The Municipal Health Service in Amsterdam (GGD Amsterdam) offers a variety of services, such as vaccinations, health checks and information. If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for help in the form of the care allowance or other schemes.
FAQs
When do I have to take out health insurance?
You usually have to take out health insurance as soon as you start working in the Netherlands. Often this is on your first day at work, or after you have registered.
Are health insurers obliged to accept me?
Yes. Health insurers have an obligation to accept in the case of the basic insurance policy. Sometimes you will have to provide evidence that you are working in the Netherlands, for example in the form of a wage slip, or a declaration by your employer or the Social Insurance Bank (Sociale Verzekeringsbank, (SVB).
When does my obligation to have insurance stop?
Your obligation to have insurance usually ends when you are no longer working in the Netherlands, for example if you stop working, relocate to a different country, or go to work in a different country. Other rules may apply in some situations, for example if you start receiving a benefit.
More information
Local contact points
- Amsterdam Mental Health Service (GGZ Amsterdam), Keizersgracht 178
- Municipal Health Service (GGD Amsterdam), Nieuwe Achtergracht 100
- Kruispost Amsterdam, Oudezijds Voorburgwal 129
Practical tips
- If you are experiencing any health issues, you should first contact your GP. Your GP can refer you to a specialist if necessary.
- Take time to compare various health insurance policies. You can do this, for example, by visiting https://www.zorgwijzer.nl or https://www.independer.nl.
- Take advantage of free vaccinations and health check-ups if you are invited to attend.
- If you are aged 18 or older, the basic health insurance package does not usually cover dental care. Often you will need to take out supplementary insurance to cover this.
- You should check every year to see whether your health insurance is still appropriate for all your situation.