The end of the year is fast approaching, and you know what that means: It’s time to choose your Dutch health insurance for 2025.
But before you make your decision, it’s wise to be up-to-date on the most recent changes in Dutch health insurance — from premiums to allowances and deductibles. Let’s get into it. 💪
🤔 Why is now the time to change your health insurance?
Dutch health insurance operates on an annual cycle, with contracts ending at the end of the year. From mid-November to the end of December, people can compare different providers, adjust their coverage to better suit their needs, or opt for a cheaper premium.
Changes coming to Dutch health insurance in 2025
So, what should you know before committing to a new health insurance for 2025? Here are some of the most important changes coming our way.
Your basic health insurance package will change
As of January 1, 2025, what’s included in the Dutch basic health insurance package will change. And, believe it or not, it’s changing for the better!
From 2025 onwards, a number of extra treatments will be covered by your basic Dutch health insurance. These include the following:
- Physical therapy for people with severe rheumatoid arthritis,
- Physical therapy for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD),
- Exploratory conversations with a therapist for people with mental health issues, and
- Rehabilitation for the elderly (geriatric rehabilitation).
While it’s great news that more treatments will be included in the basic health insurance package, we’re directly feeling the effects of this in our healthcare premius. 🥴👇
Health insurance premiums are going up
As of November 12, all Dutch health insurance providers have announced their new premiums for 2025.
The first insurance company announced its monthly premiums back in September, increasing the monthly payment by €9.50. Now, the four major Dutch health insurers have also announced their premiums for 2025 — and they will increase by €8 to €14 per month.
This brings Dutch healthcare premiums to an average of €156 per month in 2025.
Taking this price increase into account, your insurance will now cost you a whopping €1,872 per year. That’s €120 more than in 2024 — and around €222 more than in 2023.
🩺 Why are Dutch healthcare costs rising?
This mostly comes down to the following:
- The elderly population is growing, putting pressure on the healthcare system.
- New and better procedures and treatments are reimbursed, which costs more money.
- Wages and prices in healthcare are rising, which increases the cost of care and treatments.
Your deductible stays the same
While healthcare costs are rising, the basic healthcare deductible (eigen risico) for 2025 has been confirmed to remain at €385.
However, you can still choose to voluntarily increase your deductible up to a maximum of €885 (which, in turn, will bring your monthly health insurance premium down).
READ MORE | Pharmacies in the Netherlands: 8 questions answered
The new Schoof coalition does have plans to bring the deductible down to €165, but this cannot take effect until 2027.
Your own contribution for medication will also stay capped at €250 in 2025.
You’ll get more healthcare allowance
The good news? Those who qualify for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) in the Netherlands in 2025 will see an increase in their monthly allowance.
READ MORE | Toeslagen: save money with these allowances in the Netherlands
The bad news? The increase is expected to be negligible, at a maximum of €7 for singles and €13 for tax partners and families.
The final amounts for the 2025 healthcare allowance will be announced in November.
Tips for choosing your health insurance provider for 2025
With all these changes coming to Dutch healthcare in 2025, it’s important to find an insurance provider that fits your needs. Here’s how. 👇
Use a comparison tool
Start by using an online comparison tool for health insurance to see all your options side by side.
This helps you quickly spot differences in pricing and coverage, and makes it easier to find an insurer that matches your needs and budget.
Consider your personal needs
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, think about what you might need from your healthcare plan.
If you require frequent specialist visits or extra coverage for things like dental or mental health services, it’s important to factor this in before choosing your plan.
Check coverage options
Different insurers may offer different levels of coverage for treatments, medications, and services. Carefully check what’s included to avoid any surprise bills later on.
Look for added benefits
Some providers may throw in a discount when you first sign up, or even discounts for things like gym memberships or wellness apps. These can add value to your policy, so it’s always a good idea to see what added perks are available.
Do you have any more questions about Dutch health insurance in 2025? Ask them in the comments.
