Annually, you have the opportunity to change health insurers. Compare the costs and policy conditions and arrange your switch before 1 January.
When can you switch?
Switching to a new health insurer is possible every year:
- Cancelling your current insurance can be done up to and including 31 December
- Signing a new insurance policy can be done up to and including 31 January
- Your new policy starts on 1 January
How does switching work?
- Search and compare health insurance policies via platforms such as Independer or Zorgwijzer
- Select a new policy before 1 February
- Your new insurer handles the cancellation of your old insurance
- From 1 January, you are insured with the new provider
Important considerations when switching
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Supplementary coverage | No guarantee of acceptance |
| Debts or arrears | Must first be settled before you can switch |
| Ongoing treatments | An authorisation may lapse |
| Deductible | Is reset with a new insurer |
Mandatory acceptance of basic coverage
For the basic insurance, there is an acceptance obligation: insurers may not refuse you, regardless of your health or age. However, this does not apply to supplementary packages.
Frequently asked questions about switching
Is switching midway through the year possible?
Only in case of a premium increase or changed conditions. You then have 30 days to cancel your insurance.
What happens to an ongoing treatment?
Check with your new insurer whether the treatment is covered. Sometimes a new approval is required.
Do I have to cancel my old insurance myself?
No, your new insurer arranges this if you switch before 1 February.
Legal support in Leiden
Do you have legal questions about your health insurance or switch? Visit the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46 for free advice. For disputes, you can go to the Rechtbank Den Haag, Leiden location.