Changes in Dutch Healthcare Insurance 2026

Introduction to 2026 Healthcare Policies

In the Netherlands, Dutch basic health insurance is a mandatory requirement for residents and those employed within the country. Each year, the government adjusts the coverage, premiums, and subsidies during “Prinsjesdag” (Prince’s Day). For 2026, several modifications have been implemented to account for rising medical costs and inflation. This guide outlines the confirmed changes affecting students during the current 2026 calendar year.

Confirmed 2026 Healthcare Premiums

For 2026, healthcare premiums have seen a moderate increase across the board. On average, the basic premium rose by approximately €3 to €10 per month compared to the previous year. Most insurers currently charge between €155 and €165 per month for a standard policy with the mandatory deductible. These increases are driven by rising wages in the healthcare sector and an aging population, which increases the overall demand for care. Note that final premiums vary per insurer and depend on the specific policy type (e.g., natura or restitutie).

Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag) Updates

To keep insurance affordable for those with lower incomes, such as students, the healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) has been adjusted for 2026. The maximum amount for single individuals is approximately €130 per month, depending on your total annual income. This subsidy ensures that students who are legally required to hold Dutch insurance do not bear the full financial burden of the premium increases. You can estimate your entitlement using the healthcare allowance calculator.

The 2026 Deductible (Eigen Risico)

The deductible excess (eigen risico) remains frozen at €385 for 2026. This is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for most medical services before your insurance begins to cover the costs. While there were discussions regarding future changes to the deductible structure, no modifications were applied for the current year. GP visits, maternity care, and certain follow-up treatments remain exempt from this deductible.

Mandatory Insurance: Working vs. Studying

A common point of confusion for international students is the insurance obligation. Your status determines whether 2026 changes apply to you:

• Study-only: If you are in the Netherlands solely to study and do not work, you generally cannot take out Dutch basic insurance. You typically remain insured via an EHIC or private international insurance.
• Working or Interning: If you have a part-time job or a paid internship that meets the minimum wage threshold, you are legally required to switch to Dutch basic insurance.

• CAK Fines: If you work without Dutch insurance, the CAK (Central Administration Office) can issue a fine of approximately €530. If you receive a letter from the CAK, do not ignore it; you may need to request a Wlz assessment from the SVB to prove your status.

Specific Coverage Changes for 2026

The government has introduced targeted changes to the basic package coverage for 2026 to improve accessibility to mental health and preventative care:

• Mental Health (GGZ): The first exploratory conversation with a mental health professional is now exempt from the deductible, making it easier to seek initial help without immediate costs.
• GP Consultations: Certain specialist “meekijk/meedenk” consultations, where a GP consults a specialist about your case, no longer count toward your deductible.
• Stop-Smoking Support: Coverage has been expanded to include up to three reimbursed programs per calendar year, including medication when used as part of a formal program.
• Exercise Therapy: Coverage for exercise therapy for certain chronic conditions (such as COPD) has been simplified and expanded.

Important Dates for the Current Year

While the window to switch insurers for 2026 closed in January, there are still dates to keep in mind for the remainder of the year:

• May – September 2026: Ensure your zorgtoeslag settings are accurate if your income changes during your summer job.
• September 15, 2026 (Prinsjesdag): The government will announce the preliminary plans and expected deductible amounts for 2027.
• November 12, 2026: Deadline for insurers to announce their new premiums for the 2027 calendar year.