Insurance

If you live in the Netherlands, there are two legally required forms of insurance. You'll need to take out a basic Dutch health insurance policy (see our information here), and, if you drive, you will need car insurance.

There are various other policies available if you would like them, though. In general, it is cheapest to speak to your bank when looking to take out additional insurance. Otherwise, there are plenty of comparison websites you can utilise.

Liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering)

In the Netherlands, you are legally liable if someone suffers damage through an accident caused by you. Personal liability insurance covers almost all damage for which you, your child or your pet might be held liable, regardless of how the incident in question occurred. Note that damage caused by motor vehicles is not covered by this insurance.

Contents insurance (inboedelverzekering)

Insure against unforeseen damage to the contents of your home with a contents insurance. In some larger cities, you will always have an excess or deductible (eigen risico) for theft, and there is typically a maximum pay-out for audio-visual equipment. It is important to make sure your home’s contents are insured at replacement value.

Travel insurance (reisverzekering)

A permanent travel insurance policy (doorlopende reisverzekering) is quite common in the Netherlands. This insurance covers damages whenever you travel. In general, it is cheaper and involves less paperwork if you have a permanent travel insurance policy, instead of arranging a separate policy for each trip. If you travel a lot, it is a good idea to take out this type of insurance.

Car insurance (autoverzekering)

If you own a vehicle in the Netherlands, you must have liability insurance to cover the cost of damage to the vehicle, or to other vehicles or people your damage or injure in the event of an accident.

Legal aid insurance (rechtsbijstand)

Legal aid policy or legal assistance will cover the costs of personal legal disputes, such as contractual disputes, third-party damages (regardless of liability), housing issues, criminal cases and disputes about labour. Most disputes involving social or contractual law are covered by legal aid insurance. Family law is generally excluded; you will need to consult legal counsel to handle such cases.

Funeral insurance (uitvaartverzekering)

If you die in the Netherlands, your next of kin will have to bear the expense of your funeral or cremation. To avoid the burden on them, you can take out funeral insurance.

You may also be interested in our information on health insurance, legal assistance, or banking and finance.