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A Comprehensive Guide to General Practitioner Registration in the Netherlands

02-12-2025
GP in the Netherlands

A Comprehensive Guide to General Practitioner Registration in the Netherlands

Welcome to the rainy Netherlands and now it's time to sort out your healthcare. Registering with a General Practitioner (GP) or huisarts in the Netherlands is a straightforward process, but there are a few things you should know to make it even smoother. Let's dive into it!

Why Registering With a GP Matters

Whether you're moving to the Netherlands for your studies or already settling in, one of the most important steps for your health and wellbeing is registering with a huisarts (general practitioner or GP). The Dutch GP is your first point of contact for almost all medical concerns—from everyday issues to referrals to specialists or mental health support.

In the Netherlands, healthcare runs through the GP system. You can’t see most specialists without a referral, and urgent care clinics typically ask who your GP is. Registering early helps ensure you receive help quickly when you need it.

Who Needs to Register With a GP?

Anyone living in the Netherlands for more than a few months should register with a GP. For international students, this includes:

  • Students with Dutch health insurance

  • EU/EEA students with an EHIC

  • Non-EU students with private or university-arranged insurance

  • Working students (who are required to have Dutch basic insurance)

If you're unsure whether you need Dutch basic health insurance, you can check directly via the Dutch government’s official tool:
https://www.hetcak.nl

 

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How to Register With a Dutch GP: Step-by-Step (2025)

1. Find a GP near your home

Most GPs only accept patients within their practice area (praktijkgebied). Use trusted tools such as:

Search by postcode to find practices currently accepting new patients (nieuwe patiënten).

2. Check the practice’s availability

Practices often indicate online whether they are open for new registrations. If not, call them. Phone communication is still the norm in Dutch healthcare, and receptionists will guide you through the process.

3. Prepare your documents

Every practice may ask for slightly different information, but typically you need:

  • Passport or ID

  • BSN (citizen service number)

  • Dutch address

  • Health insurance details (policy number & provider)

  • Phone number and email

Some may also request previous medical records, especially if you have chronic conditions.

4. Fill out the registration form

You can usually register:

  • Online via the GP practice website

  • In person at the reception

  • By email after receiving a digital form

The form will ask basic medical and contact information. Be honest and clear—this ensures you receive the right care.

5. Transfer your medical history (if relevant)

If you previously lived in the Netherlands or another EU country, you can request your old GP to share medical records with the new one. Outside the EU, a summary of important health issues or prescriptions is often enough.

6. Receive confirmation

You will receive confirmation via email or phone. Once accepted, the practice becomes your official GP, and you can:

  • Make appointments

  • Request repeat prescriptions

  • Call for medical advice

  • Book consultations for mental or physical health issues

Making General Practitioner Appointments

Making an appointment is usually done online or by phone, and you can often get a slot on the same day or within a few days, depending on the urgency. Appointments typically last between 10 to 20 minutes. Some GPs also offer walk-in hours, known as "spreekuur" in Dutch. This means you can pop in without an appointment, but be prepared to wait your turn - first come, first served.

We hope this clears things up on how to register with a GP in the Netherlands. If you haven't signed up for one yet, what are you waiting for? Get it done and enjoy peace of mind knowing your healthcare is sorted!

Happy cycling and stay healthy!

What You Can Expect From Your GP

A Dutch GP provides:

  • Standard medical consultations

  • Prescription services

  • Mental health support (via a POH-GGZ, a mental health nurse)

  • Referrals to specialists, physiotherapists, and psychologists

  • Vaccinations and preventive care

  • Advice on chronic conditions

Most GP visits are covered by basic insurance and do not count toward your eigen risico (annual deductible), making GP care accessible to everyone.

Tips for International Students

  • Register early - GPs in student cities fill up quickly.

  • Be patient with phone queues - they are normal in the Netherlands.

  • Learn the difference between GP, urgent care, and emergency services so you know where to go.

  • Always bring your insurance card to appointments.

  • If you don’t speak Dutch, most GPs speak good English, especially in student cities.

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FAQ: Registering With a Dutch GP (2025)

Can I register with more than one GP?

No. You can only be registered with one GP at a time.

What if all GP practices near me are full?

You can call your municipality for help finding available practices. You can also expand your search to nearby postcodes or check again after a few weeks, as availability changes regularly.

Do I need Dutch basic health insurance?

If you work (even part-time) or have an internship with a salary, yes. Otherwise, EU/EEA and some non-EU students may rely on private insurance or EHIC. Always verify via the Dutch government’s website (hetcak.nl).

Is GP care free with Dutch health insurance?

Yes, GP visits are fully covered by Dutch basic insurance and do not count towards your annual deductible.

Can I change my GP later?

Yes. You can switch GPs if you move or prefer a different practice. Just register with the new practice and deregister from the old one.

Can I see a specialist without a GP?

Usually no. You need a GP referral for most specialist care in the Netherlands.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

Routine appointments typically take a few days. Urgent issues are usually handled the same day via a phone triage.

Looking for a GP? Meet Our Trusted Partner

Finding an available GP can be challenging, especially in busy student cities. That’s why Brave Ones partners with carefully selected healthcare providers who understand the needs of international students. Through our trusted GP partner, you can register quickly, get support in English, and access approachable, student-friendly care without the stress of navigating the system alone. Normally priced at €110, students who use the ‘braveones2025’ coupon code when booking through the EHC website will pay only €60 for their first consultation. Additionally, regardless of whether you work in the Netherlands or not, you can declare the cost of the consultation with your Dutch health insurance provider or private student insurance for possible reimbursement. You can learn more or start your registration directly through Brave Ones here: https://www.braveones.com/dutch-gp

Final Thoughts

Registering with a Dutch GP is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your health and peace of mind while studying in the Netherlands. It’s a straightforward process, but availability varies—so the earlier you register, the better. With the right GP, you’ll have reliable medical support throughout your student experience, whether it’s advice for an everyday cold or help navigating the wider Dutch healthcare system.

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