Netherlands Travel Insurance Requirements

Key Takeaways

• Our analysis shows that Travel Insured International, Tin Leg, and IMG offer the best travel insurance for the Netherlands.
• Given the bustling cities, common train journeys, and strong cycling culture in the Netherlands, travelers are advised to opt for plans that offer extensive medical coverage, trip cancellation benefits, and emergency evacuation options.
• Netherlands travel insurance can start at just $5.33 per day for basic Emergency Medical coverage; however, comprehensive plans that include Trip Cancellation might provide better overall value and average around $30.80 per day.
• Use our online travel insurance quote tool to compare plans and prices from more than 20 providers, or call an advisor toll-free at 800-240-0369.

Our Top Recommended Netherlands Travel Insurance Plans

• Travel Insured International – FlexiPAX because it offers strong all-around coverage with customizable benefits and high medical and evacuation options.
• Tin Leg – Gold because it offers high medical limits, cancellation coverage, and versatility for every kind of trip or traveler.
• IMG – iTravelInsured Choice because it offers comprehensive coverage tailored to common travel concerns in the region.

Do I Need Travel Insurance to Visit the Netherlands?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for U.S. citizens visiting the Netherlands for under 90 days, but it’s highly recommended, particularly for Schengen visa applicants who need € 30,000 in travel medical insurance.

Even visa-free travelers benefit from insurance, which covers costly medical bills, trip cancellations, and delays. While the Netherlands has great healthcare, visitors pay upfront, making minor injuries potentially expensive. A comprehensive policy protects against lost luggage, emergency evacuation, and theft, which are common concerns for tourists in Amsterdam.

Reasons You May Need Travel Insurance for the Netherlands

While travel insurance isn’t required for most visitors, it can be a brilliant addition to your trip—especially if you want protection from medical emergencies, cancellations, or unexpected travel hiccups.

Here are a few reasons travelers choose to buy insurance for a trip to the Netherlands:

Medical Emergencies and Healthcare Costs

The Netherlands offers high-quality healthcare, but medical services can be expensive for non-residents. Unexpected illnesses or injuries may lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially if hospitalization or specialized treatment is required.​

✅ Emergency Medical insurance can cover emergency medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor visits, protecting you from substantial financial burdens.

Cycling Accidents

Cycling is popular in the Netherlands, thanks to extensive bike lanes and cyclist-friendly infrastructure. However, unfamiliarity with traffic rules or crowded areas raises accident risks.​ In 2022, about 30,000 bike accidents caused minor injuries, around 14,000 led to severe harm, and tragically, about 2,000 were fatal.

✅ Travel insurance can cover medical treatment for cycling-related injuries, ensuring you receive necessary care without unexpected costs. Consider looking for plans that offer Sports and Activities coverage, so you’re protected from mishaps while experiencing a thrill.

Trip Interruptions Due to Weather

The Netherlands experiences variable weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, particularly during autumn and winter. Such weather can lead to transportation delays or cancellations, potentially disrupting your travel plans.​

✅ The Trip Interruption benefit can reimburse you for additional expenses incurred due to weather-related trip interruptions or delays.

Theft and Pickpocketing

Tourist areas, especially in cities like Amsterdam, can be hotspots for petty theft and pickpocketing. Losing personal belongings such as passports, wallets, or electronics can be distressing and costly.​

✅ Travel insurance can cover losses from theft, assist in replacing stolen items, and cover associated costs.

Public Transportation Strikes

While the Netherlands has an efficient public transportation system, occasional strikes can occur, leading to service disruptions. This can affect your ability to reach planned destinations on time.​

✅ Travel insurance can compensate for additional transportation or non-refundable expenses from such unforeseen disruptions.

More Details on the Best Travel INsurance for the Netherlands

Travel Insured International

• Recommended Plan: FlexiPAX
• Emergency Medical: $100,000
• Medical Evacuation: $500,000
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
• Great for add-ons and coverage upgrades

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Tin Leg

• Recommended Plan: Gold
• Emergency Medical: $500,000
• Medical Evacuation: $500,000
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
• Covers a wide-range of adventure sports & activities

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IMG

• Recommended Plan: iTravelInsured Choice
• Emergency Medical: $100,000
• Medical Evacuation: $500,000
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip costs
• Reliable coverage for pre-existing conditions

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How Much Does Travel Insurance to the Netherlands Cost?

As of March 2025, the average daily cost of travel insurance for the Netherlands is $30.80 for a comprehensive plan, based on our internal sales data from thousands of travelers using the Squaremouth marketplace during the last year.

Travelers spent an average of $461.94 on a comprehensive travel insurance policy for a 15-day, $6,728 trip. However, it is possible to find more affordable coverage by opting for a medical-only plan, which averages just $5.33 per day and offers essential coverage for emergency medical treatment and evacuation but does not include trip cancellation benefits.

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What Travel Coverage Do You Need for the Netherlands?

Regardless of your itinerary, we recommend purchasing travel medical coverage at a minimum when visiting the Netherlands. That said, if you have pre-paid and non-refundable trip expenses, a comprehensive travel insurance policy will offer complete protection for your trip.

When comparing travel insurance plans for the Netherlands, consider these key types of coverage:

Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

The Netherlands is a popular destination for cruises, European rail tours, and multi-stop vacations, which can involve non-refundable trip costs. If an unexpected illness, family emergency, or travel delay forces you to cancel or cut your trip short, this coverage can help reimburse those prepaid expenses.

Most comprehensive plans will cover 100% of your insured trip costs if you need to cancel for a covered reason and up to 150% for Trip Interruption if you need to return home early.

Travel medical coverage

The Netherlands has a world-class healthcare system, but non-residents must pay out-of-pocket for any care they receive—U.S. health insurance, including Medicare, typically does not cover international medical expenses.

A travel medical insurance policy offers essential protection at an affordable cost. We recommend choosing a plan with at least $50,000 Emergency Medical coverage. Some plans also cover pre-existing conditions if you meet the requirements, such as purchasing your plan shortly after your initial trip deposit.

Medical evacuation coverage

Hospitals like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht offer excellent care, but you could need medical evacuation if you stay in a more rural area or experience a severe injury while biking or on a day trip to the countryside.

Emergency medical transport—especially international repatriation—can cost tens of thousands. We suggest choosing a policy with at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage for peace of mind.

Insurance for baggage and personal items

Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in busy tourist areas like Amsterdam’s Central Station, popular markets, and transit hubs. If your luggage or valuables are stolen, lost, or damaged during your trip, baggage insurance can help cover the loss.

Coverage limits vary widely by plan, so review the fine print. For added peace of mind, consider traveling without high-value or sentimental items that would be difficult to replace.

What Isn’t Covered by Netherlands Travel Insurance Plans?

Even the best travel insurance plans for the Netherlands come with exclusions. Understanding what’s not covered can help you avoid surprises and choose the right plan for your needs.

Here are some standard exclusions to watch out for:

Routine or Preventive Care

Travel insurance is designed for unexpected medical emergencies, not routine doctor visits or wellness checkups. If you need a physical, vaccinations, or prescription refills during your trip, those expenses typically won’t be covered.

💡 If you plan to get a dental cleaning in Amsterdam or visit a local clinic for a non-urgent issue, you’ll likely have to pay out of pocket.

Injuries from Extreme or High-Risk Activities

While cycling and walking are popular and safe ways to explore the Netherlands, more adventurous activities—like kite surfing along the North Sea coast or off-roading in Veluwe National Park—may not be covered unless your policy includes explicitly adventure or hazardous sports coverage.

💡 Planning ice skating on natural lakes in the winter or sailing in Friesland? Check if your plan includes adventure sports coverage.

Pre-existing conditions (Unless Covered by the Plan)

Typically, standard policies do not cover pre-existing medical conditions, including asthma, diabetes, or heart issues—unless you buy your plan early and satisfy the provider’s specific waiver conditions.

💡 If you manage a chronic illness and plan to visit the Netherlands’ wellness centers or spa resorts, ensure your policy includes a pre-existing condition waiver.

Travel Changes for Personal or Non-Covered Reasons

If you change your plans for a non-covered reason—like deciding to leave Amsterdam early due to rainy weather or wanting to skip a city on your itinerary—standard cancellation and interruption coverage won’t apply.

💡 Only Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policies allow cancellations for any reason, but they must be purchased shortly after your initial trip payment and typically reimburse up to 75% of your trip cost.

Tips to Finding the Best Travel Insurance for the Netherlands

Use a Comparison Tool

As the largest travel insurance marketplace in the U.S., we allow travelers to compare more policies and providers than any other site. Comparing plans side-by-side ensures you find the best coverage for your trip to the Netherlands—at the lowest price. Whether biking through Amsterdam, cruising Dutch canals, or touring tulip fields, the right plan starts with a smart comparison.

Read the Fine Print and Policy Exclusions

Coverage varies between travel insurance plans, so always review the policy details before purchasing. Look for exclusions that could affect your trip, such as restrictions on cycling accidents, pre-existing medical conditions, or high-risk activities like kite surfing or ice skating. Reading the plan’s Certificate of Insurance helps you understand what’s covered—and what’s not.

Some plans offer add-ons or waivers to extend coverage for certain activities or conditions. Always check the specifics!

Consider Your Specific Travel Risks

The Netherlands presents travel risks, including frequent rain and wind, cycling accidents, pickpocketing in busy areas like Amsterdam Centraal, and public transportation disruptions. In winter, icy conditions can increase the chance of slips and falls, especially when biking or walking.

Consider your age, health, travel season, and planned activities. The more aware you are of potential risks, the better equipped you’ll be to select the right policy for your needs.

Determine How Much Coverage You Need

For travel to the Netherlands, we recommend at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and $100,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage to avoid financial hardship in an emergency.

According to the U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands, visitors may be required to pay upfront for medical treatment. Choosing a direct hospital payment plan can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses if you need urgent care.

Is Travel Insurance for the Netherlands Worth It?

Yes, especially if you’re traveling for an extended period, visiting multiple cities by train, or planning to engage in activities like biking or museum-hopping. Insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and give you peace of mind while exploring this scenic and culturally rich destination.

FAQ: Netherlands travel insurance

Do I need travel insurance for the Netherlands in 2025?

Travel insurance is not required for U.S. citizens visiting the Netherlands for less than 90 days as part of the Schengen Area agreement. However, it is mandatory for travelers who need a Schengen visa, which includes citizens of many countries outside the U.S.

Even if you’re not required to have it, travel insurance is strongly recommended. It can protect you from costly out-of-pocket medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or emergency evacuations—especially important in a country where U.S. health coverage isn’t accepted.

Does my U.S. Health Insurance Work in the Netherlands?

In most cases, no. U.S. health insurance and Medicare generally do not provide international coverage, particularly for emergency treatment, hospitalization, or medical evacuation abroad.

If you experience a health issue during your trip, you may be expected to pay for care upfront, which can be expensive in a country like the Netherlands. A travel medical insurance policy can help cover these costs and offer direct payment to Dutch hospitals to avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses.

What documents are required to travel to the Netherlands?

U.S. citizens traveling for tourism or business for up to 90 days need a valid passport for at least three months beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

Although a visa is not required for short stays, U.S. travelers must register with the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), a pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers entering Schengen countries.

Do I need a visa or passport to travel to the Netherlands?

Yes, a passport is required for all U.S. travelers. However, you do not need a visa for tourism, business, or family visits under 90 days.

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or are traveling for work, study, or relocation, you may need a Dutch national visa or a residence permit.

Does the Netherlands require COVID insurance?

As of 2025, the Netherlands does not require visitors to have COVID-specific travel insurance or proof of vaccination for entry.

However, purchasing a policy that includes trip cancellation, interruption, or medical coverage is still a good idea if you or a travel companion test positive before or during your trip. Many plans now include COVID-related benefits as standard.