In the Netherlands, everyone must have health insurance. If you are uninsured in Rijswijk, you risk a fine. Discover what you can do to prevent this.
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 from the moment you establish residence in the Netherlands, including in Rijswijk.
What Happens If You Are Uninsured?
- The CAK sends you a warning letter
- You have 3 months to take out insurance
- No action? Then a fine of approximately €488 (2024 rate) follows
- If you remain uninsured, you receive another fine after 3 months
- As a last step, the CAK arranges insurance for you
Insurance Arranged by the CAK
If you still have no insurance after multiple reminders, the CAK arranges a policy on your behalf with an insurer. You must then pay:
- The monthly premium of the insurance
- Additional administrative costs
- All previously imposed fines
How to Quickly Take Out Insurance
It is never too late to insure yourself. Follow these steps:
- Find a suitable health insurer
- Take out basic insurance online or by phone
- You are immediately covered upon conclusion
- Retroactive effect is possible (maximum 4 months)
Frequently Asked Questions About Health Insurance in Rijswijk
Can an insurer reject me?
No, for basic insurance there is an acceptance obligation. Every insurer in the Netherlands must accept you.
What if I cannot pay the premium?
Apply for healthcare allowance via the Tax Authorities. In case of major financial problems, you can seek help from the municipality of Rijswijk or contact the [Juridisch Loket Rijswijk](https://www.juridischloket.nl/contact/rijswijk).
Do I remain insured during temporary stay abroad?
This depends on your situation. For a stay longer than 1 year outside the Netherlands, you may be deregistered from the basic registration.
Extra Questions and Answers
What to do upon receiving a CAK letter about being uninsured?
Upon receipt of a CAK letter, you have 3 months to take out basic insurance. Do this quickly to avoid a fine of approximately €488. Choose an insurer and arrange it online or by phone. Contact the CAK if you have questions.
How to avoid a fine for being uninsured?
Take out insurance within 3 months after the first warning. This can be done easily via an insurer of your choice. Ensure you pay the premium on time to prevent further issues.
What if I cannot pay the fine?
If you ignore the fine, the CAK may engage a bailiff. Moreover, mandatory insurance may be arranged, requiring you to pay the premium, costs, and fines. Contact the CAK in case of payment problems.
Is retroactive insurance possible?
Yes, you can be insured retroactively up to 4 months. This covers healthcare costs from that period. Arrange this via an insurer and account for premium payment over the uninsured period.
What if I do not pay after CAK-arranged insurance?
If you do not pay the premium or fines after insurance arranged by the authorities, the CAK may take collection measures, such as wage garnishment. Contact the CAK immediately or a debt counselor in Rijswijk if you have problems.
Just moved to Rijswijk: when to insure?
Upon arrival in the Netherlands, you must immediately take out basic insurance, from your registration in the BRP. Do not wait longer than 3 months to avoid a fine.
Help with unaffordable premium?
Apply for healthcare allowance from the Tax Authorities. For further support, you can go to the municipality of Rijswijk or the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.