Proof of Health Insurance for Your DAFT Visa Application
You need proof of health insurance for your DAFT application.
But you don't need Dutch insurance yet. Travel insurance works for the application.
What's Required
For DAFT application, you need health insurance covering Netherlands, valid for duration of initial stay, with proof in English.
Travel insurance is acceptable for the application.
Travel Insurance Options
SafetyWing (what we used)
- Medical expenses up to $250,000
- Cost: $45-50/month
- Easy to buy online, instant proof, cancel anytime
World Nomads
- Good coverage, reputable company
- Cost: $50-80/month
IMG Global
- More complete coverage
- Cost: $80-150/month
What to Submit
You need:
- Insurance policy document
- Showing your name
- Coverage dates
- Coverage in Netherlands
- In English
Print and bring to embassy. Keep digital copy.
After Arrival: Dutch Insurance
Once in Netherlands, you must register for Dutch health insurance within 4 months of arrival. It's required by law. Cost: €120-150/month.
Dutch insurance is better long-term—complete coverage, lower costs, integrated with Dutch healthcare.
For comparison, see Healthcare in Netherlands vs United States.
Timeline
For application: Buy travel insurance 1-2 weeks before embassy appointment. Keep active until you arrive.
After arrival: Register for Dutch insurance within 4 months. Cancel travel insurance.
Planning Your DAFT Application?
Go at Your Own Pace
Templates, checklists, and a step-by-step timeline for your entire DAFT move—the practical toolkit we built from our own experience.
- Complete document checklist
- Insurance recommendations
- Or book a consultation for guidance
Talk Through Your Situation
Have specific questions? Unusual circumstances? Or just want to hear from someone who did this? Let's get on a call.
- Complete document checklist
- Insurance recommendations
- Or book a consultation for guidance
Cost
Travel insurance (3 months): $135-450 Dutch insurance (annual): €1,440-1,800
Budget: $150-200/month for health insurance after moving.
Our Experience
We bought SafetyWing for $45/month for the application. Used it for 3 months. Switched to Dutch insurance after getting our BSN. Never had issues.
Travel insurance was fine for the application. Don't overthink this part.
FAQ
Do I need Dutch health insurance for the application? No, travel insurance is acceptable.
When do I need to get Dutch insurance? Within 4 months of arriving. It's legally required.
Can I use my US health insurance? Not for the application. Need insurance that covers Netherlands.
For complete DAFT documents checklist, see DAFT Documents Checklist.
Related Resources:
- DAFT Application Timeline - Week-by-week breakdown
- What Happens After DAFT Approval - Next steps including Dutch insurance
- Complete DAFT Guide - Full application walkthrough
Digital Guide — $199
We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.