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Arranging insurance as an expat in the Netherlands

Moving to a new country involves a lot of paperwork. For expats in the Netherlands, specific non-life insurances are essential to cover financial risks, from your home to personal liability.

Expats and international professionals relocating to live and work in the Netherlands. · Updated: 2026-06-12

Why moving is a crucial insurance moment

When moving to the Netherlands, your living situation changes completely. Existing foreign insurance policies often no longer provide cover or are insufficient. Furthermore, Dutch laws, regulations, and what is considered 'normal' locally can differ significantly from what you are used to.

Essential non-life insurances for expats

  • Liability (AVP): For damage that you, your partner, or your children accidentally cause to others or their property.
  • Contents: For the belongings in your home, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing.
  • Buildings: For damage to the house itself, such as walls and roofs (primarily important for homeowners).
  • Legal Expenses: For legal assistance in disputes regarding work, housing, or consumer purchases.

Renting vs Buying a home

1

Rented home

The landlord is responsible for buildings insurance. You only need to arrange contents insurance for your own belongings, plus personal liability insurance.

2

Bought home

You are responsible for buildings insurance yourself. Mortgage providers often require this. You also take out contents and liability insurance yourself.

Frequently asked questions

Is personal liability insurance (AVP) mandatory for expats?

It is not mandatory by law, but it is highly recommended in the Netherlands. Almost everyone has it, and it covers potentially very high costs.

Does my foreign insurance also cover me in the Netherlands?

Usually not for the long term. Cover is often limited to holidays. It is safer and often cheaper to take out local Dutch insurance policies.

Keep reading

This page gives general information and is not personal insurance advice.