10 Zorgverzekering Plans Expats Love in Amsterdam: Deductibles & English Support

Moving to Amsterdam is exciting. But once you arrive, you’ll quickly learn that Dutch health insurance (zorgverzekering) is not optional. It is mandatory for most residents, including expats who live and work in the Netherlands. Choosing the right policy can feel confusing, especially if you do not speak Dutch and are worried about deductibles, coverage, and customer support.

In this guide, we compare 10 zorgverzekering plans expats love in Amsterdam: deductibles & English support so you can get a clear, unbiased view. You’ll see how each insurer handles pricing, user experience, apps, claims, and service in English. This article is written for expats, international students, and foreign professionals who want straightforward information before signing a Dutch health insurance contract.

What Expats Should Know Before Choosing a Zorgverzekering Plan

Expats in the Netherlands must choose a zorgverzekering plan that fits both legal requirements and personal needs. Understanding how Dutch deductibles work helps you avoid unexpected yearly costs. English-friendly customer support is essential if you are still learning Dutch.Your choice of insurer affects access to hospitals, specialists, and digital tools. Comparing premiums, networks, and supplementary coverage ensures better long-term value.

How the Dutch Health Insurance System Works

The Dutch system is based on mandatory basic health insurance (basisverzekering). If you live and work in the Netherlands, you usually must take out a policy with a Dutch insurer within four months of registering at your municipality.

Key points:

• You pay a monthly premium (premie) to an insurer.
• There is a mandatory deductible (eigen risico), which is the amount you must pay out of pocket for certain health costs before your insurer starts paying.
• Many people also choose supplementary insurance (aanvullende verzekering) for dental, physiotherapy, or extra mental health coverage.
• Children under 18 are usually insured for free under a parent’s policy.
  

Why English Support Matters for Expats

For expats, Dutch medical and insurance words can be intimidating. Misunderstanding a letter or bill could cost money or delay care. That’s why English support is more than a “nice to have.” It affects:

• How easily you understand your policy
• Whether you can follow your invoices and claims
• How fast you solve problems with customer service
• Your overall user experience
  

Some insurers offer full English websites and helplines, while others are still “Dutch first.”

Essential Terms for Expats

10 Zorgverzekering Plans Expats Love in Amsterdam: Deductibles & English Support

Below are 10 popular Dutch insurers and plans that expats in Amsterdam often consider. Details like exact pricing change every year, so always confirm the latest amounts on the insurer’s website. This section focuses on positioning, features, English support, and typical experiences, not on fixed prices.

1. Zilveren Kruis – Basis Budget / Basis Zeker

Zilveren Kruis is one of the largest insurers in the Netherlands and is well-known among expats. Their Basis Budget and Basis Zeker policies are attractive due to a strong hospital network and a solid digital experience.

• Good reputation and broad acceptance in Amsterdam hospitals
  
• Clear information on deductibles and additional packages
  
• English pages and FAQs available
  
• Handy app for claims and policy management
  

Typical Features Overview

2. VGZ – Ruime Keuze

VGZ is another large cooperative insurer. The VGZ Ruime Keuze policy offers a wide network with flexible options. Many expats like their user-friendly app.

• Broad choice of contracted providers
  
• Practical app for submitting claims and checking coverage
  
• English information is available but some parts remain Dutch-heavy
  
• Good value-for-money combinations with supplementary insurance
  

VGZ Ruime Keuze Snapshot

3. CZ – Zorg-op-Maatpolis

CZ is particularly strong in the south, but is also popular nationwide. The CZ Zorg-op-Maatpolis is a Natura policy that balances cost and choice.

• Good reputation for customer service
  
• Helpful digital tools and CZ app
  
• Partial English website; some information may still require translation
  
• Wide range of supplementary packages
  

CZ Zorg-op-Maat Overview

4. Menzis – Basis Voordelig

Menzis is known for competitive pricing and preventive health programs. The Menzis Basis Voordelig plan is a budget-friendly choice.

• Attractive premiums for basic coverage
  
• Good app and online environment
  
• English information, but not as comprehensive as some competitors
  
• Strong focus on lifestyle and prevention
  

Menzis Basis Voordelig Snapshot

5. OHRA – Basic Plan

OHRA (part of NN Group) operates mainly online and is known for fast reimbursement and a strong digital experience. Many expats appreciate its straightforward approach.

• No-referral policy for many treatments (depending on coverage)
  
• Smooth claims handling via app or online
  
• Clear, structured communication; English help often available
  
• Good option for people who want quick digital service
  

OHRA Basic Plan Overview

6. FBTO – Basisverzekering

FBTO (part of Achmea, like Zilveren Kruis) offers a modular style of insurance. You can build your package with different optional modules.

• Flexible add-ons for mental health, dental, travel, etc.
  
• User-friendly online dashboard
  
• English info is limited; may require browser translation
  
• Popular with people who want a tailored package
  

FBTO Basisverzekering Snapshot

7. DSW – Basisverzekering

DSW is smaller but highly respected. It is often praised for transparent communication and customer-friendly policies.

• Clear conditions and straightforward communication
  
• Good reputation in consumer research and satisfaction surveys
  
• Limited English structure on the website
  
• Slightly different premium and deductible philosophy compared to big insurers
  

DSW Basic Overview

8. HEMA Zorgverzekering

HEMA is best known as a retail chain, but also offers a straightforward online health insurance product. Many younger expats find it appealing.

• Simple product structure
  
• Branding and design are clear and friendly
  
• English support is limited; Dutch is dominant
  
• Good for those who already shop with HEMA and like simple deals
  

HEMA Zorgverzekering Snapshot

9. Anderzorg – Basic Policy

Anderzorg is a budget brand, with a strong focus on low premiums and online self-service.

• One of the cheaper options among major brands
  
• Strong digital experience; app-led service
  
• English support is limited but manageable with translation tools
  
• Fewer bells and whistles, but basic coverage is in line with law
  

Anderzorg Basic Overview

10. Salland – Basisverzekering

Salland is a regional insurer (eastern Netherlands) but is accessible nationwide. Expats who want a smaller, more personal insurer may appreciate it.

• Focus on personal service and regional care networks
  
• English content is modest; some use of Dutch-only documents
  
• Strong local relationships with providers in its region
  
• Basic coverage comparable to larger insurers
  

Salland Basic Overview

“Design and Build Quality” of Insurance Platforms

Instead of physical build, we look at design, ergonomics, and aesthetics of the insurers’ digital platforms. This is a big part of daily user experience for expats.

Digital Platforms and Apps

Across these 10 zorgverzekering plans expats love in Amsterdam: deductibles & English support, most insurers now offer:

• A smartphone app (iOS/Android)
  
• A web portal for policy documents
  
• Digital claim submission (upload invoices or direct e-billing)
  

Zilveren Kruis, VGZ, CZ, Menzis, OHRA and Anderzorg are usually praised for clean, modern apps. Smaller insurers like Salland and DSW may have simpler interfaces but often compensate with personal service.

Customer Portals and Dashboards

Good portals make it easy to:

• Download your policy
  
• View your deductible usage
  
• See what has been reimbursed
  
• Change address or bank details
  

If you prefer self-service, the big online insurers are usually more polished. If you like direct human contact, smaller insurers may be more responsive by phone.

Digital UX Comparison (Indicative)

Features and Specifications That Matter for Expats

What Basic Coverage Usually Includes

Under Dutch law, all basic zorgverzekering plans must cover a similar package, such as:

• Visits to the GP (huisarts)
  
• Hospital care and specialist treatments
  
• Emergency care and ambulance services
  
• Most prescription medicines (within rules)
  
• Maternity care and basic mental health care
  

So the main differences between insurers are about network, service, digital experience, and supplementary coverage.

Supplementary Insurance Options

Common add-ons include:

• Dental (tandarts): routine check-ups, fillings, crowns
  
• Physiotherapy: useful if you cycle a lot or play sports
  
• Glasses and lenses
• Extra mental health sessions
• Abroad coverage beyond EU rules
  

Expats with specific needs (e.g., braces, heavy dental work) should examine extras carefully.

Deductible Flexibility (Eigen Risico)

The mandatory deductible is set by the Dutch government. You can often choose a higher voluntary deductible in exchange for a lower monthly premium. This is a key part of your personal “spec sheet.”

• If you rarely visit doctors: higher deductible can save money
  
• If you expect many treatments: lower deductible reduces risk
  

Coverage and Specs Overview (Indicative)

Performance and Real-World Experience

Claims Processing Speed

Most Dutch insurers use direct billing with contracted providers. For care in their network, you often don’t have to submit anything yourself. For out-of-network or foreign invoices, you upload a bill in the app.

• Large insurers (Zilveren Kruis, VGZ, CZ, Menzis, OHRA) are generally fast, often processing within a few weeks.
  
• Online-focused brands (Anderzorg, FBTO, OHRA) are built for quick digital claims.
  
• Smaller insurers (DSW, Salland) may be slightly slower but often more personal in communication.
  

Customer Support Efficiency

Phone and chat support quality varies:

• Some insurers offer English-speaking agents during office hours.
• Others might ask you to bring a Dutch-speaking friend or rely on email.

User reports often praise OHRA, Zilveren Kruis, and VGZ for their combination of digital tools and helpful staff.

Performance Snapshot (Indicative)

Ease of Use and User Experience

Sign-Up Process for Expats

Signing up usually involves:

1. Choosing a plan on the insurer’s website.
2. Filling in personal details (BSN, address, start date).
3. Providing your IBAN for direct debit.
4. Receiving your policy and health insurance card digitally.
   

Some insurers offer English sign-up flows and expat guides. Others are Dutch-only, but you can use browser translation.

App and Website Usability

For expats, the biggest pain point is often language, not the technology itself. Most apps are modern and intuitive. If you are comfortable with banking apps, you’ll be fine with health insurance apps.

Learning Curve for New Expats

In the first months, you will see new words: eigen risico, polis, declaratie, vergoedingen. Over time, this becomes familiar.

Sign-Up & Learning Curve (Indicative)

Pricing, Value, and Alternatives

Monthly Premium Comparison

Exact premiums change each year, but in general:

• Budget brands like Anderzorg, HEMA, Menzis Basis Voordelig tend to be cheaper.
• Larger brands with more options like Zilveren Kruis, VGZ, CZ are mid-range.
• Highly flexible or restitution-based plans can be more expensive.
  

Value for Money

When comparing value for money, consider:

• Premium + expected yearly deductible usage
• How important English support is to you
• Whether you need extras like dental or physio
• App quality and service reliability
  

Sometimes the cheapest plan is not the best if you end up confused with Dutch-only support.

Best Alternatives for Different Types of Expats

• Young professionals & students: Anderzorg, HEMA, Menzis (budget, app-focused).
• Families: Zilveren Kruis, VGZ, CZ (wide networks, solid support, many add-ons).
• Digital nomads & freelancers: OHRA, FBTO (flexible, strong digital experience).
• Service-first expats: DSW, Salland (personal touch, clear policies, even if less English).
  

Pricing & Value Snapshot (Indicative)

Pros and Cons of Dutch Zorgverzekering Plans for Expats

Pros

• High-quality healthcare system: Dutch hospitals and GPs are well-regulated and trusted.
  
• Standardized basic coverage: Every basic plan covers essential care, so you won’t “miss” critical treatments.
  
• Wide choice of insurers: You can choose between big names, smaller cooperative insurers, and online-first brands.
  
• Strong digital infrastructure: Apps, portals, and e-billing make claims easy.
  
• Options for supplementary coverage: You can tailor dental, physio, and extra care to your needs.
  
• Annual switching possibility: Each year you can compare and change plans if you find a better deal.
  
• English support from many insurers: Larger companies and expat-focused brands offer decent English communication.
  

Cons

• Mandatory nature: You must buy a policy and risk fines if you do not, which can feel restrictive.
  
• High premiums compared to some countries: Premiums plus deductible may be more than what you paid at home.
  
• Limited dental coverage in basic plans: Adults must pay extra for dental coverage.
  
• Language barriers: Some insurers still primarily operate in Dutch, including letters and fine print.
  
• Complex terminology: Terms like eigen risico and natura/restitutie are not intuitive for newcomers.
  
• Deductible can be a financial surprise: If you need a lot of care in one year, you must pay the deductible first.
  
• Regional network limitations: Budget policies sometimes have restricted provider networks.
  

Takeaways

Choosing between 10 zorgverzekering plans expats love in Amsterdam: deductibles & English support is less about finding “the best insurer” and more about finding the best match for your lifestyle, health, and language needs.

• If you value strong English support and clear communication, OHRA, Zilveren Kruis, and VGZ are very good choices.
• If you want a low-cost, digital-first experience and are comfortable using translation tools, Anderzorg, HEMA, and Menzis Basis Voordelig can offer excellent value.
• If you prioritize personal service and transparency, DSW and Salland stand out.
  

Before you decide, list your expected needs (GP visits, dental, physio, mental health), compare a few premiums and deductibles, and check how much English support each insurer offers. That way, your Dutch health insurance becomes a helpful safety net instead of a stressful mystery.

FAQs About Health Insurance for Expats in Amsterdam

1. Do expats need Dutch health insurance?

If you live and work in the Netherlands, you are usually required to take out Dutch health insurance within four months of registering as a resident. Some exceptions exist for students with valid foreign or EU coverage, but most working expats must have a Dutch policy.

2. What is the standard Dutch deductible (eigen risico)?

The government sets a mandatory annual deductible (eigen risico) for adults. You pay this amount for certain treatments before the insurer covers the rest. You can often choose a higher voluntary deductible in exchange for a lower monthly premium.

3. Can I get health insurance if I do not speak Dutch?

Yes. Many insurers offer English web pages, brochures, and helplines. Larger insurers and expat-friendly brands usually have better English support. You can also use translation tools and ask your HR department or friends for help if needed.

4. Which zorgverzekering has the best English support?

There is no official ranking, but many expats report good experiences with OHRA, Zilveren Kruis, and VGZ, thanks to their English information, apps, and customer service options. Smaller insurers may have less English content but can be very helpful once you reach the right person.

5. How do I change insurers each year?

You can switch insurers once a year, usually between mid-November and the end of December for the following year. You sign up with a new insurer, and often they will cancel your old policy for you. The new coverage usually starts on 1 January.

6. Are dental costs included in basic insurance?

For adults, routine dental care is not covered by the basic plan. You will usually need a supplementary dental package. For children under 18, many dental services are covered under the basic insurance.