Deductible Excess: Understanding the ‘Eigen Risico’

Disclaimer: The information on this page is intended as a general guide to physical therapy coverage and health insurance deductibles within the Dutch healthcare system. It does not constitute medical or personal financial advice. Coverage is subject to the final terms of your insurance policy.

If you have Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering), you will inevitably encounter the term ‘Eigen Risico’ (deductible excess). This consists of two types: an obligatory amount set by the government and a voluntary amount you choose yourself. Understanding how these work is essential for managing your student budget and avoiding unexpected medical bills.

What is the Obligatory Deductible (Eigen Risico)?

The obligatory deductible is the fixed amount of medical expenses you must pay out of your own pocket per calendar year before your insurer starts covering the costs. Once you have reached this limit, your insurance company pays for all further covered medical treatments for the remainder of that year.

Crucially, some healthcare services are exempted from the deductible. You do NOT have to pay anything for:

• Consultations with a General Practitioner (GP/Huisarts)
• Obstetric and maternity care
• Standard dental care for children under 18
• Follow-up care for organ donors

Amount of the Obligatory Deductible for 2026

The Dutch government determines the amount of the obligatory deductible annually. For 2026, the mandatory deductible is set at €385. While this amount increased significantly in the past decade, it has remained stable in recent years to keep healthcare accessible.

What is a Voluntary Deductible?

On top of the mandatory €385, you can choose a voluntary deductible. By taking on more financial risk yourself, you are rewarded with a lower monthly premium. This is often a smart move for healthy students who don’t expect to need hospital care.

You can increase your deductible in increments of €100, up to a maximum voluntary addition of €500. This brings your total potential deductible to €885.

• Advantage: Save up to €20-€30 per month on your premium.
• Disadvantage: If you are hospitalized or need specialist care, you must pay the first €885 yourself.

Calculation Example: How it Works in Practice

Suppose you need a minor surgery that costs €900, and you have chosen a voluntary deductible of €200.

• Obligatory Deductible: €385
• Voluntary Deductible: €200
• Total you pay: €585
• Insurer pays: €315

Note: If you need further treatment in the same calendar year, your insurance covers 100% because you have already “spent” your full deductible.

Arriving or Leaving Mid-Year: Pro-Rata Deductible

If your legal obligation to have Dutch basic insurance starts or ends partway through the calendar year, your deductible is calculated proportionally (pro-rata).

• Starting mid-year: If you start a part-time job in July and take out insurance, your deductible for the remaining 6 months will be roughly half of the annual €385 (approx. €192.50).
• Leaving mid-year: If you deregister from the Netherlands and cancel your policy before December 31st, your deductible is also adjusted. If you were billed the full €385 but left in June, you might receive a partial refund depending on the medical care you used.

Financial Tips and Student Scenarios

Before opting for the maximum deductible of €885, ensure you have a financial “buffer” in your savings account. If an accident happens, you must be able to pay that amount at once.

Student Scenario: Emma, a healthy 22-year-old international student, decided to take the maximum voluntary deductible of €885. This lowered her monthly premium by €20, saving her €240 a year. To be safe, she set aside €900 in a separate savings account just in case she needed an unexpected hospital visit. Since she only went to her GP (which is exempt from the deductible) that year, she safely kept her €240 savings without issue.

Additionally, remember that if you are required to have Dutch health insurance, you are likely eligible for the healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag). This monthly subsidy from the tax office helps cover the costs of your premium, regardless of the deductible you choose.