Moment: studying in the Netherlands
4 min readFirst time in the Netherlands as an international student
As an international student, you arrange more than enrolment and housing. Your living situation also determines which Dutch non-life insurance is sensible, especially liability and contents cover.
International students, expats and parents arranging a first Dutch room or studio. · Updated: 2026-06-12
Why this is a strong insurance moment
A first study period in the Netherlands combines several risks: new housing, shared belongings, liability towards roommates and unclear cover from your home country.
Which insurance usually comes up first?
- Liability (AVP): damage you accidentally cause to another person or to someone else's belongings.
- Contents: your own belongings in your room, studio or apartment.
- Buildings: usually for the owner of the home, not for a regular tenant.
- Travel or health: important to check separately; PolisMoment focuses here on non-life insurance.
Your living situation decides a lot
Room in a shared house
Pay attention to shared spaces, locks, theft conditions and responsibility for damage to shared belongings.
Private studio
Contents cover is often clearer, but water, fire, glass and liability still matter.
Owned home
Then buildings insurance may become relevant, alongside contents and liability.
Frequently asked questions
Is liability insurance mandatory for international students?
Not always by law, but it is often sensible and may be requested by a landlord, school or internship provider.
Do I need buildings insurance if I rent a student room?
Usually not. The owner normally arranges buildings insurance. You mainly check your own belongings and liability.
Keep reading
This page gives general information and is not personal insurance advice.