Living Abroad

Healthcare in the Netherlands for UK Nationals: Mandatory Insurance, Costs and the S1

3 min read

In this guide
  1. Quick answer
  2. What do you need to join an insurer?
  3. What does it cost?
  4. How does the S1 work?
  5. Common mistakes
  6. FAQ
    1. How do I find an insurer?
    2. Is a GP visit free?
    3. What about Germany?
  7. Key takeaways
  8. Related guides
  9. Sources

Do you have to buy health insurance in the Netherlands? Yes. GOV.UK says: “You must have health insurance cover to live in the Netherlands.” You need to get insurance within 4 months of arriving, otherwise you could be fined more than 400 euros. Proof of cover is also needed before you register as a resident and when you apply for a visa.

Quick answer

  • Get insurance within 4 months of arriving.
  • There are around 60 providers, and you pay a monthly premium.
  • GOV.UK gives a typical premium of around 100 euros a month and a yearly excess usually around 400 euros.
  • Register as a resident first, then contact your insurer. After you join, register with a GP.
  • S1 holders must register with CZ, the only Dutch insurer that handles S1 forms.

What do you need to join an insurer?

  1. Your citizen service number (burgerservicenummer)
  2. Proof of address from the Personal Records Database
  3. Proof of a Dutch bank account

After you join, register with a GP and show your insurance card and ID. You can add dependants to your plan, and your employer may offer a discount with its chosen insurer.

What does it cost?

Item What GOV.UK says
Typical premium Around 100 euros a month
Emergency care Included
GP appointments and maternity care Free
Other care Paid up to your yearly excess, usually around 400 euros. A higher excess means a lower premium
Hospital treatment not covered by your policy Usually 25% of the bill
Prescriptions Vary by medicine and pharmacy, no fixed price
Dentistry and physiotherapy Extra cover can be bought separately

How does the S1 work?

You may be eligible if you live in the Netherlands and receive a UK State Pension or an exportable benefit. Request the form from NHS Overseas Healthcare Services, then register it with CZ, which issues an insurance card. You are then covered on the same basis as a Dutch citizen. Dependants may be classed differently, so check with CZ, and a State Pensioner’s dependants lose cover when the pensioner starts claiming the State Pension.

Common mistakes

  • Missing the 4-month deadline. A fine of more than 400 euros is possible.
  • Not planning for the excess.
  • Taking an S1 to the wrong insurer. Only CZ handles it.
  • Assuming dental is included. It is extra.

FAQ

How do I find an insurer?

GOV.UK links to zorgverzekering.org for comparison.

Is a GP visit free?

GOV.UK says GP appointments are free.

What about Germany?

See health insurance in Germany.

Key takeaways

  • Insurance within 4 months is a legal requirement.
  • Expect a premium and a yearly excess.
  • S1 holders register with CZ.

Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change, so check GOV.UK and Dutch authorities.

Sources

  • GOV.UK: Healthcare for UK nationals living in the Netherlands

Keep reading