In the Netherlands, everyone must have health insurance. If you are uninsured in Utrecht, you risk a fine. Discover what you can do if you have no insurance.
Mandatory Health Insurance in the Netherlands
If you live or work in the Netherlands, you are required to take out basic health insurance. This applies from the moment you establish residence in the Netherlands or start working.
Risks of Being Uninsured
- You receive a warning from the CAK
- You have 3 months to take out insurance
- Without action, you receive a fine of approximately € 488 (2024)
- If you remain uninsured, a new fine follows after 3 months
- The CAK can ultimately arrange insurance for you
Insurance via the CAK
If you still have no insurance after repeated warnings, the CAK will arrange basic insurance for you with a random insurer. You are then responsible for:
- The monthly premium of the insurance
- Additional administrative costs
- The previously imposed fines
Taking Out Insurance Yourself
It is always possible to arrange insurance yourself:
- Find a suitable health insurer
- Take out basic insurance online or by phone
- You are immediately insured upon registration
- Retroactive effect is possible up to 4 months
Help and Information in Utrecht
Do you have questions or problems with your health insurance in Utrecht? You can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55 for free advice. In addition, the District Court of Midden-Nederland at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1 handles matters regarding fines and insurance issues.
Frequently Asked Questions about Health Insurance
Can an insurer reject me?
No, for basic insurance there is an acceptance obligation. Every insurer in the Netherlands must accept you.
What if I cannot pay the premium?
You can apply for healthcare allowance via the Tax Authorities. In case of financial problems, you can also seek help from the municipality of Utrecht or the Juridisch Loket.
Am I insured during a temporary stay outside the Netherlands?
This depends on your situation. For a stay longer than one year outside the Netherlands, you may be deregistered from basic insurance.