Optional incapacity insurance coverage outside the Netherlands

You can take out optional insurance from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). This provides you with an income if you cannot work due to sickness or disability.

Conditions

You can take out optional coverage with the UWV only if you meet all the relevant conditions. For example, you must be below the age of retirement (AOW state pension age).

• Find out if you can take out optional insurance with the UWV (information in Dutch)
• See all conditions (information in Dutch)

Applying

You must apply for the insurance within 13 weeks of the day you leave to go abroad or within 13 weeks after the compulsory insurance through your employer ends.

Apply for optional insurance on UWV.nl (information in Dutch)

What you need to apply

• Your bank account number
• Your citizen service number (BSN)
• Your DigiD

Don’t have a DigiD? Find out how to apply for the insurance by post on UWV.nl (information in Dutch).

Cost

You must pay an insurance premium for optional insurance from the UWV.

Estimate your premium on UWV.nl (information in Dutch)

The benefits organisation in the country where you live may also offer optional insurance against loss of income due to the inability to work. Contact that organisation to find out what options are open to you.

If you live in an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you can find the relevant benefits organisation on Europa.eu.

You can also take out incapacity insurance with an insurance company in the Netherlands or in the country where you live. Contact an insurance company to find out what options are open to you.