How Does the Dutch Deductible (Eigen Risico) Work?

If you have Dutch health insurance, you will quickly encounter the term “eigen risico.” This is the mandatory annual deductible in the Netherlands’ healthcare system.

For many expats, the deductible can be confusing at first. Here is how it works and what you should expect.

What Is the Dutch Deductible?

The eigen risico is the amount you must pay yourself each calendar year before your health insurer begins covering certain medical costs.

Key points:

• It applies per person, per year
• It resets every January
• It only applies to basic health insurance

The deductible is set by the government and applies nationwide.

What Does the Deductible Apply To?

The deductible typically applies to:

• Hospital treatments
• Specialist care
• Emergency room visits (without GP referral)
• Medical imaging (such as MRI scans)
• Some prescription medications

If you use these services, you will first pay the costs yourself up to the deductible limit.

What Is Not Covered by the Deductible?

Certain services are exempt and fully covered:

• GP visits
• Midwife care
• Maternity care
• Care for children under 18
• Some preventive services

This means you can visit your GP without worrying about deductible charges.

How Much Is the Deductible?

The government sets a standard mandatory deductible each year.

Expats can choose to:

• Keep the standard deductible
• Voluntarily increase it in exchange for lower monthly premiums

Increasing the deductible reduces your monthly insurance cost but increases financial risk if you need care.

How Payments Work in Practice

If you receive medical treatment that falls under the deductible:

1. The provider sends the bill to your insurer
2. Your insurer processes it
3. You receive an invoice for the deductible portion

You usually do not pay the hospital or specialist directly.

Example Scenario

If your annual deductible is €385 and you receive specialist treatment costing €1,000:

• You pay the first €385
• The insurer covers the remaining €615

If you later need additional covered care in the same year, it will be fully covered once the deductible is met.

Does the Deductible Apply Immediately After Arrival?

Yes. The deductible applies from the moment your Dutch health insurance starts.

Even if you arrive mid-year:

• The full annual deductible usually applies
• It does not get reduced proportionally

This surprises many new expats.

Important Considerations for Expats

When relocating to cities like Amsterdam or surrounding areas:

• Budget for potential deductible costs in your first year
• Consider whether a higher voluntary deductible makes financial sense
• Understand that GP care remains accessible without deductible concerns

Being financially prepared helps avoid unexpected invoices.

Why Understanding the Deductible Matters

The Dutch healthcare system is highly structured and insurance-based. Knowing how the deductible works allows expats to:

• Avoid confusion about medical bills
• Plan healthcare expenses realistically
• Make informed insurance decisions

It is one of the most important aspects of settling into life in the Netherlands.

How Htel Apartments Supports a Smooth Transition

Managing healthcare, insurance, and registration is easier when you have stable accommodation. Htel Apartments offers serviced apartments in Amstelveen, giving expats a comfortable base while arranging health insurance and other essentials.

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