Healthcare and health insurance in Amsterdam

Download our Moving to Amsterdam Guide (PDF)

With top-notch facilities and medical professionals at the top of their game, healthcare in Amsterdam is among the best in the world.

If you live in the Netherlands, you’re required to have medical insurance from a private health insurance company. Dutch insurers are required by law to provide a full set of basic benefits, ensuring essential healthcare coverage. You also have the option to take out additional health insurance to cover services like dental care, physiotherapy, or alternative medicine.

EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medically necessary state healthcare during a short-term visit. UK citizens can now use the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC post-Brexit.

Pharmacies (apotheken) are widely available in Amsterdam and are typically open Monday through Friday, with some offering extended hours on Saturdays or during the evening. Many pharmacies now operate 24/7 or provide online prescription delivery services, making getting the medication you need easier than ever. Notices on pharmacy doors often provide details about the nearest all-night or Sunday pharmacies, ensuring you always have access to essential medications.

Dutch pharmacies stock a wide range of over-the-counter medicines, although some drugs that are freely available in other countries may require a prescription here. Be sure to check regulations if you’re bringing prescribed medications into the Netherlands, especially for controlled substances, as you might need additional documentation or certificates.

Here are some of the most prominent hospitals in Amsterdam.

Hospitals in Amsterdam

Acibadem International Medical Center

Website: www.acibademimc.com
Address: Arlandaweg 100, 1043 HP Amsterdam

Amsterdam Tourist Doctors

Website: www.amsterdamtouristdoctors.nl
Address: Nieuwe Passeerdersstraat 8, 1016 XP Amsterdam

Amsterdam UMC

Website: www.vumc.nl
Address: De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam

OLVG

Website: www.olvg.nl
Address: Oosterpark 9, 1091 AC Amsterdam

What do expats say about Amsterdam's healthcare scene?
"I got an expat doctor, and the visit was like talking to a friend. He heard all my concerns, and I made sure to bring my medical records for him to notate. I think it's also cool I can book an appointment online and not be on hold with someone. I recommend Huisartsenpraktijk in Amsterdam."
Learn more in our interview about the expat life in Amsterdam with American expat Monique.

Are you an expat living in Amsterdam?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Amsterdam. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.

Expat Health Insurance

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Healthcare in Amsterdam