Insurance requirements for studying at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

This page has information from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Netherlands combined. This might have resulted in repetitive info. Please read carefully and in case of questions please contact Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam ('VU Amsterdam') is an internationally renowned research university founded in 1880. The university offers over 190 English-taught programmes at Bachelor's, Master's and PhD level to more than 24,000 students from all over the world. Students and staff of 84 nationalities create a dynamic international academic community.

Insurance information for Netherlands

If you are going to study and live in The Netherlands, you want to be fully prepared before starting your adventure. Among other things, you want to make sure your insurance covers everything you need, without paying too much.

Students from EU/EEA countries, who are in possession of valid health insurance in their home country, may use the European Health Insurance Card (see FAQ EHIC). This is a free card that gives you access medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in any of the 27 EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland under the same conditions and at the same cost (free in some countries) as people insured in that country. Please note that EHIC is according to EU recommendations not an alternative for Travel Insurance . EHIC does not guarantee free services. As each country’s healthcare system is different services that cost nothing at home might not be free in another country

Students from outside the EU/EEA, by law you must have health insurance covering all health costs for the duration of your stay in the Netherlands. This is not only needed to obtain a visa but also during; stay if you don’t have the right health insurance for your situation, you risk paying a heavy fine. If you need medical care while uninsured, you must pay the costs yourself. If you are in the Netherlands solely to study (you’re unemployed) and are not eligible for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), then you must arrange private health insurance.

Please note that if you decide to take a job, even a part time, your situation could change and you will need to apply for a mandatory Dutch Basiszorgverzekering (BZV). This applies to both EU and Non EU students.

Is this enough?

It is important to understand that the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) is not always enough, Please note that EHIC is according to EU recommendations not an alternative for Travel Insurance, and that the local offered health insurance will probably not cover:

(Additional) medical costs
Repatriation
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid
Worldwide cover

You will need an insurance policy also covering, but also arranging for you, for example:

You returning home if a close relative is seriously ill or dies;
Up to two close relatives visiting you in if you fall seriously ill;
Your medical repatriation to your home country for hospitalization or rehabilitation treatment;
or in the worst possible situation, returning a body home for burial.

Via our partner Aon, you can easily discover details that apply to your specific situation. To get advice and help you to will help you to identify the possible gaps in cover and insight in the costs of insurance, you can freely request an instant quote.

About Netherlands

The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities.

English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.

Curious what is best for you when going to Netherlands?

Get custom advice for your situation from our partner, Aon. Click the button below and enter the wizard Aon created. It provides information on prices based on your country of origin, destination, and current insurance status. All this without any obligations on your part!

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