Can there be different circumstances where a different start date (other than date of registration at the municipality) for the insurance policy should be set?

Can there be different circumstances where a different start date (other than date of registration at the municipality) for the insurance policy should be set?

Yes, there can be circumstances where an au pair’s health insurance start date differs from their official registration date, particularly if they register for health insurance near the beginning of a new calendar year but were already registered in the BRP (municipality records) at the end of the previous year. 

1. Annual Health Insurance Policies in the Netherlands 

   1. In the Netherlands, health insurance is structured on a calendar year basis (January 1st – December 31st). 
   2. Many insurance companies reset policies and premium rates every January, meaning if an au pair applies for health insurance early in the new year, their policy might be automatically set to start from January 1st instead of their actual arrival date. 

2. Avoiding Premium Back Payments for the Previous Year 

   1. If an au pair arrived and registered at the municipality late in the previous year (e.g., December) but delays applying for insurance until January, the insurer might still require them to pay retroactively from their arrival date. 
   2. However, some insurance companies may allow the au pair to start the policy from January 1st instead of backdating it, preventing an unexpected lump sum payment for the previous year. 

3. Alignment with Healthcare Allowance (Zorgtoeslag) Calculations 

   1. The Dutch tax office calculates zorgtoeslag (healthcare benefit) per calendar year. 
   2. If the au pair starts their insurance on January 1st, it aligns with the new year’s zorgtoeslag (healthcare benefit) 
   3. Healthcare benefit is not commonly paid retrospectively for partial months. 

Key Considerations: 

• If the au pair needs medical care between their actual arrival and their health insurance start date, they may be responsible for any costs incurred. 
• Au pairs must apply for health insurance within four months of their BRP registration to avoid complications which may include fines. 
• It is always best to check with the insurance provider when selecting a start date, as different insurers may have different rules. 

For more details, au pairs can refer to Zorgverzekeringslijn, which provides guidance on Dutch health insurance rules.