Freelancer Insurance in the Netherlands: What You Actually Need
When you’re self-employed, you get to call the shots; but that also means you don’t have the safety net that comes with a regular job. No sick pay, no disability cover, no one to blame when things go sideways.
That’s where insurance comes in.
If you’re freelancing in the Netherlands, here’s a simple breakdown of the types of insurance to consider, what they actually cover, and some providers to look into.
1. Am I legally required to have insurance as a freelancer?
Short answer: no.
The Dutch government doesn’t require freelancers to carry insurance - but going without it could leave you (and your business) vulnerable.
2. Which insurances should I consider as a freelancer?
Here’s what most self-employed people look into:
AOV – Arbeidsongeschiktheidsverzekering (Disability Insurance)
This covers your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury.
Why it matters: If you break your leg or develop burnout and can't work for months, AOV provides a monthly payout.
Cost: Varies a lot (often €100–€300/month depending on age, waiting period, and coverage)
Providers:
a.s.r.
Central Beheer
Movir
De Amersfoortse
Knak AOV (budget-friendly, limited options)
BAV – Beroepsaansprakelijkheidsverzekering (Professional Liability Insurance)
Covers legal costs if a client blames you for financial damage due to your advice or work.
Why it matters: If you give advice (coach, consultant, designer, etc.), and a client claims you made a mistake that cost them money.
Cost: Around €20–€70/month
Providers:
Centraal Beheer
Howden
Nationale Nederlanden
Aon
Hiscox
Bedrijfsaansprakelijkheidsverzekering (Business Liability)
Covers accidents that happen during your work - like spilling coffee on a client’s laptop.
Why it matters: Physical or material damage during business activities, even if you're not at fault.
Cost: Often bundled with BAV or around €10–€30/month
Providers: Same as above
Legal Insurance (Rechtsbijstand)
Covers legal support if you end up in a dispute - with a client, landlord, or supplier.
Why it matters: If you’re in a disagreement over a contract or unpaid invoice, this helps cover lawyer costs.
Cost: Around €10–€20/month
Providers:
ARAG
Univé
DAS
3. Other insurances to consider (depending on your situation)
Zorgverzekering (Health insurance) – mandatory for everyone in the Netherlands
Cyber insurance – if you handle a lot of client data or work in tech
Equipment insurance – for photographers, videographers, or anyone with expensive gear
Life insurance – especially if you have dependents or a mortgage
4. Not sure what you need?
That’s normal. You don’t have to get everything at once.
Start with what makes sense for your work and income and build from there. For most freelancers, AOV and BAV are a good place to start.
Final Tip: Keep it deductible
Most freelancer insurances are tax-deductible, so you’ll get some of that cost back come tax season.
Want help choosing the right setup?
If you're unsure about what to prioritise or want to sense-check your finances, book a one-off consultation. We’ll help you figure it out in plain English.