Dutch Consumers Face Higher Health Insurance Premiums in 2025

Health insurance companies in the Netherlands have announced their premiums for 2025, with increases across the board. The announcements, made just before the November 12 deadline, reveal that the cost of basic health insurance will rise sharply next year, leaving consumers with higher monthly expenses.

Last-Minute Announcements Reflect Market Sensitivity

The most expensive basic insurance will cost €177.50 per month, while the cheapest plan is €141.40 per month—a €10 increase compared to the cheapest option last year.

According to Mirjam Prins, a healthcare expert at the comparison site Independer, the delayed announcements highlight insurers’ cautious strategies. This approach suggests that insurers closely monitor competitors’ pricing before finalizing their own rates.

Health Premium Increases by Major Insurers in 2025

All major insurers are raising their premiums, with some experiencing sharper hikes than others. The most popular plans from the four largest insurers show the following changes:

• Zilveren Kruis: Monthly premium increases by €8.80 to €156.25.
• Menzis: Monthly premium rises by €9.50 to €156.25.
• VGZ: Monthly premium jumps by €12.00 to €151.90.
• CZ: Monthly premium sees the steepest increase of €14.00 to €160.00.

A Strain on Households

The increase in premiums marks the latest financial strain on Dutch households, many of which are already grappling with higher costs for utilities, groceries, and housing. The government is expected to adjust support levels for those relying on health insurance subsidies, but whether this will fully compensate for the higher premiums remains uncertain in 2025.

With health insurance a legal requirement in the Netherlands, consumers will have no choice but to absorb these increases or risk inadequate coverage.

As the deadline for switching insurers approaches at the end of the year (31 December), consumers are encouraged to carefully evaluate their options and choose a plan that balances cost and coverage to meet their needs.