Life & Health Insurance
Do you want to leave your next of kin without any financial worries if you and/ or your partner are not there anymore? You can now insure yourself with a life insurance in the event of death. Your partner, children or other surviving relatives can use this to pay off the mortgage. This gives a feeling of peace of mind for now but especially for later.
What is a life insurance?
A life insurance policy is mostly applied for if you want to have an amount paid out in the event of a certain event. In this case we are talking about in the event of death. You pay a monthly premium for a certain term. The life insurance is usually arranged directly in combination with a mortgage application.The reason for this is that the homeowners do not want to leave each other with financial worries now but most certainly not later.
What options are available with term life insurance?
With a term life insurance policy, you have three options, namely:
• Annuity scheme
• Linear scheme
• Equal/ Constant scheme
An annuity scheme is usually in combination with an annuity repayment scheme that is linked to the mortgage. This also applies to the linear version. The equal/constant scheme is actually quite simple, you insure a certain amount for a term of 30 years and this will no longer decrease or increase because it remains the same. The insurance is terminated at the end of the term.
What does term life insurance cost?
It is very dependent on your age, type of insurance, medical background, term, etc. It is therefore very difficult to mention a fixed amount. You are able to make a calculation together with one of our experienced advisors to see if it fits your situation. You can also ask all your questions, so you get a full picture of how this life insurance works.
Frequently Asked Questions about Insurance in the Netherlands
What types of insurance are available in the Netherlands?
The most common types are health insurance (mandatory), car insurance (mandatory for vehicle owners), home insurance (building and/or contents), liability insurance, travel insurance, life insurance, legal expenses insurance, funeral insurance, and pet insurance. Some are required by law, others are optional but widely recommended.
Which insurances are mandatory?
Everyone living or working in the Netherlands must have basic health insurance. Car owners must have at least third-party liability insurance. For homeowners with a mortgage, building insurance is usually required by the lender, though not by law.
What is basic health insurance and what does it cover?
Basic health insurance (basisverzekering) covers general practitioner visits, hospital care, specialist care, prescription medication, maternity care, and some medical equipment. You can add supplementary insurance for things like dental care or physiotherapy.
What is liability insurance and is it compulsory?
Personal liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering) covers damage you accidentally cause to others or their property. It is not compulsory but highly recommended. Liability insurance for motor vehicles (WA-verzekering) is compulsory for vehicle owners.
What is home insurance and what does it include?
Home insurance typically includes building insurance (opstalverzekering) for the physical structure and contents insurance (inboedelverzekering) for your belongings. Building insurance is often required for homeowners with a mortgage; contents insurance is important for both owners and tenants.
What is the difference between building and contents insurance?
Building insurance covers the structure of your home (walls, roof, fixtures), while contents insurance covers movable items inside your home (furniture, electronics, clothing). Both can usually be combined in a single policy.
What is the deductible (eigen risico) and how does it work?
For health insurance, the deductible is a fixed amount you pay yourself each year (currently €385) before the insurer starts covering costs. Other insurances may also have a deductible, which can vary by policy.
Can expats and non-residents get insurance in the Netherlands?
Yes, expats and non-residents can take out most types of insurance. Health insurance is mandatory for anyone living or working in the Netherlands. Many insurers offer information and policies in English.
What additional insurances are common or useful?
Optional insurances include travel insurance, legal expenses insurance, life insurance, funeral insurance, pet insurance, bicycle insurance, and accident insurance. These provide extra protection depending on your lifestyle and needs.
What should I do if I need to make a claim?
Contact your insurer as soon as possible, provide all requested documentation (such as receipts or police reports), and follow their procedures. Your policy will outline what is covered and any conditions for claims.
How do I choose the right insurance policies?
Assess your personal situation (homeowner or tenant, car owner, family status), legal requirements, and risks you want to cover. Compare policies, premiums, coverage, and deductibles. Seek advice if needed, especially for complex situations.
Are there combined insurance packages?
Yes, many providers offer bundled packages (e.g., home, contents, and liability insurance) at a discount. This can simplify administration and sometimes reduce costs.
What happens if I move abroad or leave the Netherlands?
You may need to cancel or adjust your policies. For health insurance, coverage generally ends when you deregister from the Netherlands or stop working here. Always inform your insurers of your new situation.
How much do insurance premiums cost?
Premiums vary by type of insurance, coverage, value of insured items, location, and personal risk profile. For example, basic contents insurance starts at around €50–€150 per year, while building insurance averages €150–€250 per year. Health insurance premiums are set annually.
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