- The best travel insurance plans for Netherlands
- Is it currently safe to travel to Netherlands?
- Is travel insurance required to enter Netherlands?
- Why take out travel insurance for the Netherlands?
- What Should Travel Insurance for the Netherlands Cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Netherlands
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Netherlands
- Your current insurance coverage in Netherlands
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Netherlands: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for the Netherlands covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Canadians but is highly recommended for potential high medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare is excellent but very expensive; a hospital stay can exceed CAD $1,500 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for the Netherlands typically costs between CAD $30 and CAD $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your Canadian passport is valid for three months beyond your planned departure from the Netherlands.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for the Netherlands.
The best travel insurance plans for Netherlands
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | CA$1.5M | Our recommendation for travel to Netherlands. Flexible with a high ceiling. - high medical cap - wide accident and repatriation cover - fast response time |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | Reliable for stays of any length in Netherlands. Simple terms and efficient assistance. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation reimbursement - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | CA$750k | Convenient and strong for short trips. Main benefits well adapted to city visits. - solid emergency limit - emergency assistance - competitive cost |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1M | Balanced solution for most travelers. Robust guarantees. - covers hospital stays - repatriation - flexible territorial cover |
| Globe Partner | CA$450k | Practical for longer stays in the Netherlands or across Europe. Simple claims process. - repatriation - medical emergency care - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | CA$750k | Basic but solid protection for short, low-risk trips. Affordable for all travelers. - essential medical benefits - fast refund - lower maximum |
- high medical cap
- wide accident and repatriation cover
- fast response time
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation reimbursement
- no deductible
- solid emergency limit
- emergency assistance
- competitive cost
- covers hospital stays
- repatriation
- flexible territorial cover
- repatriation
- medical emergency care
- civil liability
- essential medical benefits
- fast refund
- lower maximum
Is it currently safe to travel to Netherlands?
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada, through Global Affairs Canada, advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Netherlands due to the continued threat of terrorism. Travel is not discouraged for the entire country, but heightened vigilance is required, particularly in busy urban centres and during major public events.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: terrorism remains a significant concern, especially in large public spaces such as Amsterdam’s Central Station and during internationally attended events. Pickpocketing and bag theft are frequent in crowded places like Rembrandtplein and on trams.
- Health risks: health care in Netherlands is excellent, but medical costs and hospital stays can be expensive for non-residents and always require upfront payment. There are periodic measles outbreaks and a risk of tick-borne encephalitis in forested regions.
- Road safety: cyclists have priority over vehicles and pedestrians. Collisions are common for visitors unused to dense bike traffic, especially in cities like Utrecht.
- Legal obligations: travellers over age 14 must carry valid identification at all times. Failure to present ID can result in fines or temporary detention by law enforcement.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Netherlands.
Is travel insurance required to enter Netherlands?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian citizens to enter Netherlands.
While there is no legal obligation, Global Affairs Canada strongly recommends travel insurance to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, as hospitals in Netherlands require upfront payment and costs can be significant for foreign travelers.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Netherlands, mainly because of the country’s excellent but expensive healthcare system.
Why take out travel insurance for the Netherlands?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Netherlands.
Although healthcare in Netherlands is high quality, foreigners often have to pay the entire bill out-of-pocket at hospitals such as Amsterdam UMC or Erasmus MC in Rotterdam. Even a short hospital stay can result in substantial costs, particularly for emergency care or surgeries, as public insurance does not cover visitors.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada if a serious problem occurs.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Netherlands.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Amsterdam UMC | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | €2,500 (approx. CA$3,700) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | €1,800 (approx. CA$2,650) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | €30,000 (approx. CA$44,400) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | €6,000 (approx. CA$8,900) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Should Travel Insurance for the Netherlands Cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers medical care and hospitalization during your stay in Netherlands. We recommend at least CA$200,000 reimbursement limit. |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Pays for a return to Canada in case of serious illness or accident. Minimum recommended: CA$100,000. |
| 💊 Medication | Covers prescription drugs needed as a result of a medical issue while abroad. Recommended limit: CA$5,000. |
| 🚑 Ambulance transport | Covers transport to hospital by ambulance, including air evacuation within Europe if required. We recommend: CA$20,000. |
| 🧳 Baggage & theft | Reimburses costs if baggage or personal items are lost, stolen or damaged. Suggested limit: CA$2,000. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation | Refund of non-refundable bookings if you must cancel for specified reasons. We suggest: CA$5,000. |
| 🤕 Personal liability | Covers legal costs and compensation if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Minimum recommended: CA$100,000. |
| ☎️ 24/7 assistance | Access to a helpline for medical or travel emergencies at any time. No limit, but availability is essential. |
We recommend at least CA$200,000 reimbursement limit.
Minimum recommended: CA$100,000.
Recommended limit: CA$5,000.
We recommend: CA$20,000.
Suggested limit: CA$2,000.
We suggest: CA$5,000.
Minimum recommended: CA$100,000.
No limit, but availability is essential.
Travel insurance from local providers or with bank cards is often limited, with low benefit caps and numerous exclusions. For your safety, compare the top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Netherlands
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$25 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$48 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$70 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$145 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of travel insurance for your trip to the Netherlands is influenced by several elements: your age, the duration of your stay, your destination's risk level, the amount of coverage selected, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Keeping these factors in mind is crucial for selecting a policy that fits your needs and budget.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Netherlands
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Netherlands while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🤸♂️ Activities covered | Some sports or activities in the Netherlands may raise your premium if listed as “high risk.” | Select only the activities you will actually do to avoid unnecessary extras. |
| 🕒 Duration of stay | Longer trips increase total insurance cost, but careful choice of duration prevents overpaying. | Match your policy length exactly to your travel dates to avoid paying for unused days. |
| 💰 Deductible amount | Higher deductibles can lower your premium but mean more out-of-pocket if you need treatment or make a claim. | Choose a deductible you can comfortably afford in an emergency to get a lower price. |
| 🌍 Geographic coverage | Multi-country or worldwide cover is more expensive and may not be needed if your trip is only to the Netherlands. | Select “Europe only” or “Netherlands only” to reduce your premium. |
| 👤 Traveller's age | Older travellers typically pay more for coverage, especially those over 65. | Consider Heymondo which does not raise prices for people over 62. |
| 🏆 Level of coverage | Higher maximums (e.g., medical or baggage loss) increase costs. Tailor your limits to suit your needs in the Netherlands, where care can be costly. | Set realistic but sufficient maximums to prevent excessive premiums while staying protected. |
| 👨👩👧 Family/group plans | Family or group options can be cheaper per person compared to separate policies, especially for family travel in the Netherlands. | Combine family members onto one plan to benefit from discounts. |
Your current insurance coverage in Netherlands
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your existing coverage—such as public or private health insurance or credit card insurance—will cover your trip to Netherlands. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Netherlands? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Provincial health plans) | Never | May reimburse minimal out-of-country emergency care, usually CA$50-CA$100/day, no repatriation, no assistance | Travel insurance often covers up to CA$1,000,000 or more with medical, repatriation, emergency support, and 24/7 multilingual assistance in Netherlands. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Sometimes reimburses hospital expenses abroad, often up to CA$10,000-CA$25,000; excludes repatriation | Travel insurance can offer up to CA$1,000,000+ medical coverage, hospital stay benefits, repatriation and baggage loss cover not included by other insurances. |
| Classic credit card (TD Classic, RBC Visa Classic, Scotiabank Value) | Limited coverage | Medical fees under CA$25,000, often excludes trip cancellation, basic baggage delay | Travel insurance provides higher medical limits (up to CA$1,000,000+), trip cancellation, and real support in Netherlands. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, Amex Gold, Scotia Passport) | Limited coverage | Medical fees up to CA$2,000,000, limited trip delay or baggage coverage, no pre-existing condition cover | Travel insurance adds pre-existing condition coverage, wider trip cancellation, and full baggage protection with dedicated emergency teams in Netherlands and Canada. |
Example
While cycling in Amsterdam, a tourist had a serious fall, resulting in a $22,000 CAD hospital bill for a head injury. His RBC Avion card's included insurance only covered $2,000, and his provincial plan covered next to nothing. Without dedicated travel insurance, he faced a staggering $20,000 debt.
Expert advice
Bank cards and provincial health plans often exclude key coverage like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Always read your policy's fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Netherlands?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in the Netherlands within any 180-day period. You must, however, hold a Canadian passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area. Customs officers may request proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Netherlands?
Start by comparing different travel insurance plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check each plan’s coverage and exclusions to ensure they address the specific risks of travel to the Netherlands, such as medical care and trip interruptions. Purchase your preferred plan online, then receive your insurance certificate by email or download.
Is travel insurance recommended for Canadians visiting the Netherlands?
While travel insurance is not legally required, the Government of Canada strongly recommends it. Medical costs, hospitalization, or emergency evacuation abroad can be expensive and are not covered by provincial health insurance. Travel insurance gives you broader coverage and peace of mind during your stay.
What documents do I need to enter the Netherlands?
You must carry a valid Canadian passport and may need to show proof of return or onward travel, as well as evidence of sufficient funds for your trip. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area. Carry valid identification at all times if you are over 14.
Can I buy travel insurance if I am already abroad in the Netherlands?
Some insurers allow you to purchase travel insurance after departure, but coverage may be limited or subject to waiting periods. It is always best to arrange insurance before leaving Canada to avoid restrictions and to ensure seamless coverage from the moment you arrive in the Netherlands.
What health risks should I consider when travelling to the Netherlands?
The healthcare system in the Netherlands is excellent, but Canadians may face high out-of-pocket costs without insurance. There are occasional outbreaks of measles, tick-borne encephalitis in forested areas, and rare rabies cases in bats. Ensure your routine vaccinations are current before travelling.
Do I need a visa to travel to Netherlands?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in the Netherlands within any 180-day period. You must, however, hold a Canadian passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area. Customs officers may request proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Netherlands?
Start by comparing different travel insurance plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check each plan’s coverage and exclusions to ensure they address the specific risks of travel to the Netherlands, such as medical care and trip interruptions. Purchase your preferred plan online, then receive your insurance certificate by email or download.
Is travel insurance recommended for Canadians visiting the Netherlands?
While travel insurance is not legally required, the Government of Canada strongly recommends it. Medical costs, hospitalization, or emergency evacuation abroad can be expensive and are not covered by provincial health insurance. Travel insurance gives you broader coverage and peace of mind during your stay.
What documents do I need to enter the Netherlands?
You must carry a valid Canadian passport and may need to show proof of return or onward travel, as well as evidence of sufficient funds for your trip. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area. Carry valid identification at all times if you are over 14.
Can I buy travel insurance if I am already abroad in the Netherlands?
Some insurers allow you to purchase travel insurance after departure, but coverage may be limited or subject to waiting periods. It is always best to arrange insurance before leaving Canada to avoid restrictions and to ensure seamless coverage from the moment you arrive in the Netherlands.
What health risks should I consider when travelling to the Netherlands?
The healthcare system in the Netherlands is excellent, but Canadians may face high out-of-pocket costs without insurance. There are occasional outbreaks of measles, tick-borne encephalitis in forested areas, and rare rabies cases in bats. Ensure your routine vaccinations are current before travelling.
On the same topic
