Anyone who is obligated to take out Dutch health insurance under the Health Insurance Act, must enroll with a health insurer to cover medical expenses within four months of arrival in the Netherlands.
The Dutch healthcare system is based on the principle of social solidarity. Therefore anyone, healthy or not, must contribute to the medical expenses of those who are ill. If you have an income or receive a social security benefit, you are also due to pay an income related premium. Depending on your situation, the percentage varies.
If you have the obligation to take out Dutch basic health insurance, you chose a health insurer and chose a policy that fits your needs. When you have received the policy sheet, you are insured from the day on the policy sheet.