Applying for an exemption from compulsory healthcare insurance
Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is obliged to have healthcare insurance. If your religion or beliefs prevent you from taking out healthcare insurance, you can apply for exemption from the insurance obligation. This is referred to as an exemption on the grounds of conscientious objection. This means that you do not have to take out healthcare insurance.
Last updated on 18 May 2021
Exemption from compulsory healthcare insurance
As a conscientious objector (in Dutch) you may be granted an exemption from compulsory healthcare insurance. In that case, you will pay extra tax instead of the healthcare insurance premium (in Dutch).
Applying for an exemption from compulsory healthcare insurance
Please contact the Sociale Verzekeringsbank (SVB) to apply for an exemption from compulsory healthcare insurance (in Dutch). You will need to apply for an exemption from the Dutch Long-Term Care Act (Wlz).If you are being granted an exemption, you will also automatically have it for the Healthcare Insurance Act (Zorgverzekeringswet). You can apply using the form ‘Declaration of conscientious objection’. You can request this form by telephone, in writing or by email from the SVB (in Dutch).
Exemption only valid for yourself and your children
The exemption only applies to you. Your partner must apply for an exemption of his/her own. However, you can apply for an exemption for your children up to the age of 18.
Laws and regulations (in Dutch)
Law on the financing of social security
Regulation for the Law on the financing of social security