Working in the Netherlands but living abroad? Here’s what you need to know about health insurance

Working in the Netherlands but living abroad? Get covered with HollandZorg!

Take the stress out of health insurance. HollandZorg offers simple, reliable coverage for cross-border workers and expats, with care both in the Netherlands and your home country.

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Are you working in the Netherlands while living in another country? Then there’s a high chance you are required to take out Dutch health insurance. Many people assume they can stay insured in their home country, but in reality, Dutch law usually applies as soon as you start working in the Netherlands.

HollandZorg – Your Simple Solution

For expats and employees working in the Netherlands while living abroad, HollandZorg is an ideal choice. It offers a straightforward and accessible basic health insurance plan tailored to the needs of cross-border workers and temporary employees, providing coverage for healthcare both in the Netherlands and in your home country. With its simple online process and responsive customer service, arranging your insurance is quick and stress-free. Check HollandZorg today to find the plan that fits your situation and ensure you’re fully covered.

When are you required to have Dutch health insurance?

The main rule is simple: if you work in the Netherlands and pay wage tax here, you are usually required to take out Dutch health insurance. It does not matter if you live in another country. Even if you commute daily or stay temporarily in the Netherlands for work, this obligation often still applies. You typically have up to four months to arrange your insurance. If you wait too long, you risk a fine and may be insured retroactively, meaning you still have to pay the premium for the past period.

When are you not required to get Dutch health insurance?

There are situations where Dutch health insurance is not required. For example, if you do not work in the Netherlands and your income comes entirely from another country, you usually remain insured there. Another exception may apply if you are posted (seconded) to the Netherlands by a foreign employer. In that case, you might stay insured in your home country, depending on your situation and official documentation. Because these rules can be complex, it is always wise to double-check your status to avoid gaps in your coverage.

Health insurance for cross-border workers (Belgium and Germany)

If you live in Belgium or Germany and work in the Netherlands, you are considered a cross-border worker. In most cases, this means you are required to take out Dutch health insurance. At the same time, you may still be entitled to receive healthcare in your country of residence. This is arranged through European regulations and specific forms, allowing access to care in both countries. How this works in practice depends on your personal situation, but the key point is that your insurance is usually based in the Netherlands.

Many cross-border workers in these situations choose a strategy that balances cost and coverage. Typically, they opt for the cheapest Dutch basic plan with the highest deductible, which allows them to stay compliant while keeping premiums low. For example, popular choices in this category are VGZ Bewuzt and Univé, which provide full legal coverage at minimal cost.

If you want to follow this approach and see which plan works best for your situation, compare Dutch health insurance plans today and find the option that fits you.

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What if you work temporarily in the Netherlands?

Even if your job in the Netherlands is temporary, the same rules usually apply. As soon as you start working here, you are generally required to have Dutch health insurance. This applies to seasonal workers, agency workers, and many expats who come to the Netherlands for a limited period. Temporary workers often overlook this obligation, which can lead to problems later. It is therefore important to arrange your insurance as soon as you start working.

Can you be insured in two countries at the same time?

Within the European Union, the general rule is that you are insured in only one country at a time. In practice, some people remain insured in their home country while they should already be insured in the Netherlands. This can lead to confusion or unnecessary costs. Once you are required to have Dutch health insurance, your insurance in another country will usually no longer apply. Making sure everything is aligned helps you avoid paying double premiums.

How to arrange your Dutch health insurance in 3 steps

Arranging your health insurance does not have to be complicated if you understand the process. First, you need to confirm whether you are required to be insured in the Netherlands. In most cases, this is true if you work here. Next, you choose a basic health insurance policy that suits your needs. Finally, you make sure to take out the insurance within the required timeframe. By taking these steps early, you avoid fines and ensure you are properly covered.

Frequently asked questions

Many foreign workers in the Netherlands have similar questions.

Is health insurance mandatory if I work in the Netherlands?
Yes, in most cases.

Does it matter if I live abroad?
Generally, it does not. If you work in the Netherlands, you are usually insured here.

Does this apply to temporary or agency workers?
Yes, most of them are also required to take out Dutch health insurance.

Get your HollandZorg plan today

Don’t wait to secure your coverage. HollandZorg offers simple, reliable plans for cross-border workers and expats, with care both in the Netherlands and in your home country.

Find Your HollandZorg Plan