Tip 18: Switching Health Insurance 2025

Switching Health Insurance 2025: Save on Dutch Health Insurance

Switching health insurers this year could help save on rising premiums. Explore this 2025 guide for an overview of insurer premiums, coverage tips, and strategies for cutting down on health insurance costs in the Netherlands.

Health insurance costs are set to rise in 2025, with average monthly premiums increasing by around €10, making it one of the largest jumps in recent years. For anyone living in the Netherlands, particularly expats and locals focused on cost-saving, this increase can impact budgets considerably. Fortunately, the annual switching period provides an opportunity to find more affordable or tailored options that can help counter rising premiums. With many insurers adjusting their packages and rates, now is the perfect time to reassess your current plan and explore other options that may better fit your healthcare needs or financial goals. For expats, providers like HollandZorg offer specialized solutions that simplify health insurance in the Netherlands. In this guide, we’ll break down the new premiums, highlight the most affordable options, and offer practical tips for choosing the best-value health insurance plan for 2025.

Switching health insurance each year has become a routine practice for many residents in the Netherlands, as insurers regularly adjust their tariffs and package offerings to account for rising healthcare costs and changing policies. This annual reset allows consumers to take advantage of more competitive rates or updated packages that may better align with their health needs and budgets. During the open enrollment period from November 12 to December 31, residents have the chance to cancel their current policy and select a new one, with the new policy automatically taking effect on January 1. This window is especially valuable for those looking to reduce their monthly premiums or to update their coverage for anticipated healthcare needs, such as dental or physiotherapy, that are not covered by basic insurance. By evaluating and switching plans, residents can ensure that they are both financially protected and equipped with the coverage that best matches their personal needs.

Switching health insurance in the Netherlands is designed to be a straightforward process, especially during the year-end enrollment period. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Sign Up for a New Plan by December 31: When you select a new health insurer, they will automatically handle the cancellation of your existing policy, so there’s no need to contact your current insurer. This ensures a seamless transition and continuous coverage starting January 1.
• Consider Deductibles and Coverage Options: One of the biggest factors affecting monthly premiums is the deductible (eigen risico). By opting for a higher deductible—up to €885—you can reduce monthly costs, which may be an attractive option if you anticipate minimal healthcare use. Additionally, consider whether supplemental coverage (like dental or physiotherapy insurance) is necessary, as adding these options will increase the monthly premium. Tailoring these choices to fit your expected needs for the coming year is a key strategy for keeping costs manageable.

Health insurance premiums can vary significantly between providers, even for the same required basic coverage. Each year, insurers adjust their pricing to reflect factors like rising healthcare costs, government policies, and the growing demand for specific health services. These annual adjustments create a range of premiums and coverage options, and comparing them is essential to ensuring you’re not paying more than necessary for the same level of care. By carefully evaluating and comparing premiums, you can potentially save hundreds of euros per year, especially when considering add-ons that are unique to each insurer. Tailoring your plan also allows you to strike the right balance between cost and coverage, whether you prioritize lower premiums or need comprehensive supplemental options. Expats should also consider specialized insurers like HollandZorg, which offer unique benefits such as no mandatory deductible and flexible policies designed for international workers.

Switching Health Insurance 2025 in a Nutshell

• Rising Premiums: Health insurance premiums are increasing by an average of €10 per month in 2025, making it a great time to explore options and save.
• Open Enrollment Period: Switch to a new health insurer between November 12 and December 31 to ensure your new plan starts on January 1.
• Base Premiums Only: The listed premiums are for basic coverage (basisverzekering). Additional coverage for services like dental and physiotherapy varies by insurer.
• Special Option for Expats: Providers like HollandZorg offer tailored health insurance plans for expats, with benefits such as no mandatory deductible and flexible coverage options.
• Comparison Tool Available: Use SaveLikeTheDutch.com’s comparison tool below to filter policies based on coverage, deductibles, and add-ons, helping you find the best match.
• Cost-Saving Tips: Increase your deductible, explore group discounts, and skip unneeded add-ons to keep premiums down.
• Switch Annually: Reviewing options each year ensures you’re getting the best value as insurers adjust plans and pricing.

Below is a table of 2025 base premiums (basisverzekering) by insurer. All premiums are based on the standard deductible of €385. Note that additional coverage options, like dental or physiotherapy, will increase these premiums, and the costs for these options vary by insurer. Since it’s not easy to compare supplemental coverage in a simple table, we recommend using our comparison tool to find the best fit for your needs. For expats, HollandZorg provides specialized plans with additional flexibility—details on this are included below the table.

Note: The increases vary by insurer, but the average is approximately €10 per month, driven by factors like rising healthcare costs, inflation, and aging population needs.

HollandZorg, in collaboration with LoonZorg, offers a unique health insurance solution specifically designed for expats and temporary workers in the Netherlands. Here’s why it stands out:

1. No Mandatory Deductible Option
   LoonZorg allows expats to choose a plan without the mandatory deductible (eigen risico), making healthcare costs more predictable and manageable.
2. Comprehensive Basic Insurance
   HollandZorg’s policies meet all Dutch legal requirements, providing coverage for GP visits, hospital care, prescription medication, and more.
3. Supplemental Coverage
   Expats can customize their plans with additional benefits, such as:
   • Dental care for routine and emergency treatments.
   • Physiotherapy sessions to address specific health needs.
   • Repatriation services for assistance in case of emergencies abroad.
4. Flexibility for Temporary Workers
   Policies are flexible, allowing you to start and stop coverage based on your stay in the Netherlands, ensuring you only pay for what you need.
5. Multilingual Support
   All customer service and documentation are available in English, making it easier for internationals to navigate Dutch healthcare.

HollandZorg’s tailored services make it a top choice for expats looking for flexible, straightforward health insurance in the Netherlands.

• Increase Deductibles: Opting for a higher deductible (up to €885) can save around €20-25 per month on premiums, especially for those with minimal expected healthcare needs.
• Collective Discounts: Look into group insurance options offered through employers or professional organizations for potential savings of 5-10%.
• Evaluate Need for Supplemental Packages: Adding dental, physiotherapy, or alternative treatment coverage is worthwhile for frequent use but may not be needed for others. Assess actual healthcare needs before adding these.
• Switch Annually: Reviewing and changing your plan each year ensures you benefit from competitive pricing and updated coverage options.

Basic health insurance is mandatory for all residents in the Netherlands. Missing the December 31 switching deadline will result in automatic renewal of your current policy. Failing to have insurance can also incur fines, so ensure timely cancellation and registration.

SaveLikeTheDutch.com’s comparison tool makes it easy to find the best health insurance policy for 2025. With this tool, you can efficiently filter insurers based on factors like coverage level, deductibles, and supplemental options to quickly compare premiums and select a plan that best fits your healthcare needs.

The comparison tool is displayed directly below this article, ready for you to start comparing and choosing the ideal insurance policy today.

Our own SaveLikeTheDutch.com comparison tool is now available via the link below, making it easy to find the best health insurance plan for 2025. Currently, the tool doesn’t include all insurers, but we’re working to expand its offerings as soon as possible. Check it out and start comparing to find the best plan for your needs!

In the meantime, you can also compare options and even earn extra perks using the Woolsocks app — learn more in our Woolsocks guide. Or, for a direct comparison, also check out PriceWise to review and select the best policy for your needs.