{"id":30053,"date":"2026-01-26T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-26T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/carexpat.com\/blog\/?p=30053"},"modified":"2025-12-18T10:15:07","modified_gmt":"2025-12-18T08:15:07","slug":"healthcare-in-the-netherlands-a-guide-for-french-expatriates","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/carexpat.com\/blog\/en\/healthcare-in-the-netherlands-a-guide-for-french-expatriates\/","title":{"rendered":"Healthcare in the Netherlands: a guide for French expatriates"},"content":{"rendered":"

Expatriating to the Netherlands<\/a> means choosing a country whose healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in Europe<\/strong>. However, for a French person accustomed to Social Security, the Dutch model is a real departure. The system is based on a single structure. Private health insurance is compulsory. The general practitioner, known as the Huisarts<\/em>, plays a central role: he or she is the essential point of contact for any healthcare pathway.<\/p>\n\n\n

The basis of the system: compulsory insurance (Basisverzekering<\/em>)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n

Unlike France, there is no clear distinction between public and private systems. A single system governs basic coverage: the Zorgverzekeringswet<\/em> (Zvw).<\/p>\n\n\n

The obligation to take out insurance applies from the moment you move to the Netherlands<\/a>. As soon as you obtain your Burgerservicenummer<\/em> (BSN), you are obliged to take out basic health insurance(Basisverzekering<\/em>) with a Dutch insurer. You have four months in which to do this. It is essential to obtain health cover and avoid any penalties.<\/p>\n\n\n

This basic insurance covers essential care: consultations with general practitioners and specialists (on referral), hospitalization, emergencies, maternity, and dental care for minors. Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that reimbursements are not always full<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n

The system is based on the franchise concept known as Eigen Risico<\/em>. The cost of care is made up of a fixed monthly premium, usually around \u20ac100, and a mandatory annual deductible. In 2025, this deductible will be \u20ac385. This is the amount you have to pay yourself before the insurance begins to reimburse your healthcare expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To remember:<\/strong> The good news is that consultations with general practitioners are exempt from<\/strong> this deductible. On the other hand, outpatient examinations (X-rays, tests) and specialist consultations are subject to the deductible.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n

Supplementary private insurance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n

Although the Dutch system requires you to take out local basic insurance(Basisverzekering<\/em>) within four months of your arrival,international health insurance<\/a><\/strong> remains a relevant solution for expatriates seeking more comprehensive coverage and greater mobility. This option offers the advantage of not being limited by the network of local insurers, and can effectively fill the gaps left by basic insurance, particularly for specialized care<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n

It often provides access to a global network of service providers<\/strong>, ensures repatriation and medical evacuation<\/strong> in the event of an emergency, and provides essential services such as medical teleconsultation<\/strong>(Virtual Doctor<\/em>) and access to a second medical opinion<\/strong> from a renowned specialist. Whether you choose cover from the first euro or in addition to CFE (Caisse des Fran\u00e7ais \u00e0 l’\u00c9tranger), international insurance guarantees peace of mind should you need care outside the Netherlands or for services not covered by the local system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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