In the Netherlands, everyone must have health insurance. If you are uninsured in Leiden, you risk a fine. Discover here 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 immediately from the moment you establish residence in the Netherlands, including in Leiden.
Risks of Being Uninsured
- You will receive a warning letter from the CAK
- You have 3 months to take out insurance
- Without action, a fine of approximately €488 (2024) follows
- If you remain uninsured, a new fine follows after 3 months
- The CAK can ultimately arrange insurance for you itself
Insurance via the CAK
If you still have no insurance after repeated warnings, the CAK will take out a policy for you with a random insurer. This will cost you:
- The monthly premium of the insurance
- Additional administration costs
- All previously imposed fines
How to Arrange Insurance Yourself
It is always possible to arrange insurance yourself:
- Find a suitable health insurer
- Take out basic insurance via the internet or by phone
- You are immediately covered for healthcare costs
- Retroactive insurance is possible (maximum 4 months)
Help and Contact in Leiden
Do you have questions or problems with your health insurance in Leiden? Contact the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46 for free advice. For legal disputes, you can go to the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.
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, regardless of your situation.
What if I cannot pay the premium in Leiden?
You can apply for healthcare allowance via the Tax Authorities. In case of financial problems, you can also seek help from the municipality of Leiden or the Juridisch Loket at Stationsweg 46.
Am I insured during temporary stay abroad?
This depends on your situation. If you stay abroad for longer than a year, you may be deregistered from the Dutch health insurance.