Dutch Health Insurance

Are you a student in the Netherlands that got a job? Then it's time to get a public health insurance! Regardless of where you are from, EU or non-EU, every employee in the Netherlands is required to get a Dutch public health insurance. Generally, all insurances offer similar benefits, however, there are variations of add-on you can have in your insurance package.

What Is Menzis Health Insurance?

Dutch Public Health insurance is a crucial consideration for international students working in the Netherlands. Menzis offers three main insurance plans tailored for different needs and budgets: the Basis Voordelig, Basis and Basis Vrij.

The monthly fee for Menzis health insurance starts from €133,75 per month for 2025 with the Basis plan. Plus, as a student, you may be eligible for a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) of a maximum of €131 from the Dutch government per month, significantly reducing your costs.

What Is Zilveren Kruis Health Insurance?

Zilveren Kruis is one of the most well-known and widely used health insurance providers in the Netherlands. All Zilveren Kruis policies comply with Dutch healthcare regulations, meaning you are insured for essential medical care, which is mandatory under Dutch law if you live and work in the Netherlands.

For 2026, the monthly premium for Zilveren Kruis’ basic health insurance starts from €153,95 per month, depending on the plan and chosen deductible. This amount is before healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag).

   

 

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Getting a public health insurance with Menzis

Dutch public health insurance is a crucial consideration for international students working in the Netherlands. Menzis offers three main insurance plans tailored for different needs and budgets: the Basis Voordelig, Basis and Basis Vrij.

Students may also choose the Studenten Goed Verzekerd Collective which gives them:

  • Up to 20% discount on the additional insurances
  • Up to 20% discount on the dental insurances at Menzis Basis and Menzis Basis Vrij
  • 3 additional physiotherapy treatments
  • 100% reimbursement for a Mental Check-In
  • €50 reimbursement for lifestyle advice

Menzis Basis Voordelig

This plan is designed as a budget option that covers essential healthcare services.

  • Lower monthly premium
  • Coverage for basic healthcare needs
  • Limited network of healthcare providers
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Menzis Basis

This plan offers a balance between cost and flexibility, providing more comprehensive coverage than the Basis Voordelig plan.

  • Wider choice of healthcare providers compared to Basis Voordelig
  • More extensive coverage for basic healthcare needs
  • Higher premium than Basis Voordelig

Menzis Basis Vrij

This is the most comprehensive plan in the Menzis lineup, offering maximum flexibility and coverage.

  • Freedom to choose any healthcare provider
  • Extensive coverage for a wide range of healthcare services
  • Highest monthly premium among the three plans

   

 

Getting a public health insurance with Zilveren Kruis

Public health insurance is essential for international students and young professionals who work in the Netherlands. Zilveren Kruis offers three main basic insurance plans, designed for different budgets and levels of flexibility, Basis Start (formerly Basis Budget), Basis Zeker, Basis Exclusief.

Why choose Zilveren Kruis?

  • Reliable Dutch insurer with a strong nationwide provider network
  • Digital-first services (app, online claims, policy management)
  • Clear coverage options and flexible deductibles
  • Suitable for students, starters, and professionals
  • Wide availability of contracted hospitals and care providers
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Zilveren Kruis Basis Start (formerly Basis Budget)

Basis Start is the new name and updated version of the former Basis Budget plan. From 1 January 2026, this plan offers more flexibility than before, especially when it comes to hospital care.

Monthly premium (2026):

  • €153,95 with €385 mandatory deductible

  • €138,95 with €885 voluntary deductible

  • Key features:
  • Covers all healthcare included in the Dutch basic package
  • Access to all contracted hospitals in the Netherlands
  • Non-contracted care reimbursed up to 70% of the average contracted rate
  • Certain medical aids can be ordered online with full reimbursement when using partner suppliers, such as:
  • Optelec (visual aids)
  • Medipoint (mobility aids and nursing care equipment)

Zilveren Kruis Basis Zeker

Basis Zeker is the most chosen Zilveren Kruis plan and offers a good balance between price and freedom of choice.

Monthly premium (2026):

  • €159,25 with €385 mandatory deductible

  • €141,75 with €885 voluntary deductible

  • Broader freedom of provider choice than Basis Start
  • Higher reimbursements for non-contracted care
  • Suitable if you want flexibility without paying the highest premium
  • Popular among students who expect occasional healthcare use

Zilveren Kruis Basis Exclusief

Basis Exclusief is the most comprehensive basic insurance plan offered by Zilveren Kruis and provides maximum freedom in choosing healthcare providers.

Monthly premium (2026):

  • €176,45 with €385 mandatory deductible

  • €158,95 with €885 voluntary deductible

  • Maximum reimbursement for non-contracted healthcare providers
  • Highest level of flexibility
  • Ideal if you expect higher healthcare costs or want full freedom of choice
  • Highest monthly premium among the Zilveren Kruis plans