Netherlands Student Insurance: AON vs EHIC – Do You Need Both?

Hello Firends👋, I often hear this question from students visiting the Netherlands on my website dotzee.eu:

“Bro, what is this AON and EHIC? Do we have to take both?”

Today I will shed light on this topic in detail, because I myself have gone through this confusion as a Pakistani student.

After reading this article, you will have no doubts about insurance. I will not only explain the difference but also give practical life examples so that future students do not face fraud or confusion. ✅

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🛡️ Why is insurance necessary in the Netherlands?

The first and most important step for every student dreaming of studying in the Netherlands is insurance. The law here is very strict. If you don’t have proper insurance, not only will you not get a visa, but if you ever have an accident, you could end up paying millions of euros. 💸

I personally saw a Pakistani student who had an accident and didn’t have AON, just a basic travel insurance. His bill came to around 15,000 euros and he was in a lot of trouble. So, it’s better to be prepared than sorry. ⚠️

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💳 What is EHIC? (European Health Insurance Card)

This card is for students from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland.

Can Pakistani students use EHIC?

❌ No, Pakistan is not on this list. So, this option is not available for Pakistani students.

If a European student has an EHIC, is it enough?

Here’s the confusion. According to the University of Twente website:

If you have an EHIC and are only studying in the Netherlands (without a job), you are not legally required to take out additional insurance.

But the EHIC only covers essential medical expenses. It does not cover:

• Liability – if you break or damage someone’s belongings
• Baggage – if your bag is stolen
• Legal assistance
• Repatriation – the cost of sending your body back home if something really bad happens

💡 Remember: According to Radboud University, students with an EHIC are advised to take out additional insurance (such as the liability part of AON).

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🏢 What is AON Student Insurance?

AON is a private insurance company that offers packages specifically for international students. It is the best option for students who are studying temporarily in the Netherlands.

What does AON cover?

It is a comprehensive package that includes:

• Health insurance (including exacerbation of pre-existing conditions)
• Liability insurance (if you cause harm to someone)
• Accidents
• Luggage and home contents
• Legal assistance
• Repatriation

How many types of AON are there?

There are usually two packages:

1. One for exchange students
2. One for full-degree students

Pre-existing conditions are fully covered for full-degree students, while exchange students only have exacerbation of these conditions covered.

Who needs AON?

• All non-European students (including Pakistanis) who require a visa or residence permit
• European students who do not have an EHIC
• Students who want additional protection (e.g., liability coverage)

Note: If you require a residence permit, institutions such as Radboud University will arrange AON insurance for you for the first year themselves.

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🔄 Do you need both?

This is the most frequently asked question. Let’s look at it from different angles:

Case 1: Non-European student (Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi)
There is no EHIC option for you. You must have AON or similar private insurance.
✅ Conclusion: AON alone is enough.

Case 2: European student without work
You have an EHIC and you do not work part-time.
Technically you do not need anything else legally. But for peace of mind, it is very wise to take out the liability and baggage part of AON.
✅ Conclusion: EHIC is enough, but AON gives additional protection.

Case 3: European student who works part-time (new rule 2026)
The University of Twente clarified in its 2026 regulations that from 1 September 2025, any European student doing part-time work or paid internship (no matter how low the salary) will be required to have Dutch basic healthcare insurance.

If you do not do this, you may face a heavy fine. In this case, you will have basic insurance instead of EHIC, and can then use AON as supplementary.

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🏥 What is basic health insurance? (Zorgverzekering)

It is for people who work or are Dutch citizens.

• Monthly premium in 2026: €159
• Deductible (Eigen risico): €385 – you pay this first, then insurance applies

💡 Important: Basic insurance does not have liability cover. If you are taking out basic insurance (because you are working), it is very important to take out the liability part of AON.

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📝 Practical advice: How to choose insurance?

At dotzee.eu, we often see students who take the cheapest option in a rush to save money and then regret it later.

For Pakistani students:
You have no choice, you have to take out AON or another similar student insurance. Luckily, AON is very comprehensive. ✅

For European students:
If you are not working, keep your EHIC, but definitely take out the cheap liability package from AON. A small mistake, like knocking over someone’s bicycle or breaking a shop window, can put you in debt for thousands of euros.

Working students:

• Mandatory: Take out basic insurance
• To avoid fines, start basic insurance the day you start working
• Also take out the liability package from AON

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📅 New rules 2026: what changes have been made?

• New internship rule: From 1 September 2025, any paid internship for European students will require basic insurance
• Premium increase: In 2026, the premium for basic insurance has generally increased by €3 per month (average €159)
• Deductible: Remains at €385
• Smoking cessation program: Now has better cover
• Mental health: The first counseling session does not count towards the deductible

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❓ Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I take out other private insurance besides AON?
Yes, there are several companies besides AON, such as Student Insurance NL, etc. But AON is the most popular and also recommended by universities.

If I have AON, do I have to pay upfront to see a doctor?
Yes, you usually pay first and claim later. In case of hospitalisation, you have to pay an advance of €150.

Does AON cover insurance for my parents to come?
❌ No, AON is only for students. Parents/friends need separate travel insurance.

I received a letter from CAK saying that I do not have insurance, even though I have AON?
This is a mistake. Fill out the WLZ assessment form and send it to CAK.

Is the EHIC free of charge?
✅ Yes, the EHIC is free and valid for 5 years

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📌 Source of authoritative information

For more details, visit Sociale Verzekeringsbank (SVB) – Dutch government agency for social security and insurance rules.

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✅ Conclusion

I hope your confusion is cleared after reading this article.

Summary:

• Pakistani/non-European: Just get AON. EHIC not useful
• European (without work): Keep EHIC, get AON liability package
• European (with work): Get basic insurance, arrange liability with AON

Insurance is not an expense, it is a responsibility. Especially when far from parents. Always contact your university’s international office before deciding.

If you have any questions, ask in the comments below. I will keep bringing you simple and authoritative information on dotzee.eu. Take care and focus on your studies. ✅