What are pre-existing conditions and why do they matter?

Pre-existing condition: Any injury, illness, or symptom your pet had before insurance started or during the waiting period (14-30 days depending on insurer). Why it matters: Pre-existing conditions are never covered, insurers can access vet records to check history, related conditions may also be excluded. Examples: Pet had ear infection before insurance means ear infections excluded forever, pet showed limping before insurance means leg/joint issues may be excluded, pet diagnosed with allergy before insurance means allergy treatments excluded. This is why you should insure young healthy pets ASAP, the older they get, the more likely they'll have something in their history that gets excluded.

Do I need to use specific vets?

No. Dutch pet insurance uses a reimbursement model, not a network model: 1) You choose any vet you want, 2) You pay the full bill upfront, 3) You submit claim to insurer, 4) Insurer reimburses you (minus deductible and co-pay). This is different from some countries where you can only use in-network vets. In Netherlands, you have complete freedom to choose your veterinarian.

How long does claims processing take?

Typical timeline: PetSecur 5 working days, Figo Pet fast online processing (3-7 days typical), OHRA varies (customer complaints about delays), Others generally 5-10 working days. What you need to submit: Invoice from vet (with diagnosis, treatment, costs), claim form (online usually), medical records (if requested), proof of microchip registration. Payment: Direct deposit to your Dutch bank account.

Can I cancel pet insurance anytime?

Depends on contract. 1-year contracts (most common): Can cancel after first year, usually requires 1-month notice, can cancel immediately if pet dies (with death certificate). Multi-year contracts (e.g., PetSecur 5-year for castration coverage): Locked in for contract duration, can only cancel at end of term or if pet dies, early cancellation usually not allowed. Monthly cancellation: Not standard in Netherlands pet insurance (unlike some other countries). Best practice: Start with 1-year contract, only commit to multi-year if there's significant benefit (like free castration coverage).

What happens if my pet dies?

Coverage ends: Submit death certificate from vet, insurance terminates (no need to keep paying), any pending claims still processed, some policies include cremation coverage. Refund: Generally no premium refund for unused months.

Should I get preventive care coverage?

Preventive care includes: Annual checkups, vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, heartworm prevention, routine dental cleanings. Cost analysis: Annual preventive care costs roughly €150-250/year, preventive coverage add-on costs roughly €60-100/year. Math doesn't always work out (you may pay more for coverage than care costs). Recommendation: Skip preventive add-ons for most pets and pay out-of-pocket. Focus insurance budget on accident/illness coverage (the unexpected expensive stuff). Exception: If your pet needs frequent dental work, dental add-on might be worth it.

My pet is 8 years old, is it too late for insurance?

Options: Figo Pet has no age limit (you can still insure), Univé accepts dogs to 8 and cats to 10 (you might qualify), others have age limit 6-7 years (too late). Reality check for older pets: Premiums will be high (age-based pricing), any existing health issues will be excluded, you may only qualify for accident-only coverage, insurance might not be cost-effective at this point. Alternative strategy for older pets: Put €50-100/month into dedicated savings account. After 1-2 years, you'll have €600-2,400 emergency fund and you keep all the money (vs. paying premiums with high deductibles and exclusions).

Can I switch insurers?

Yes, but carefully. Switching process: 1) Sign up with new insurer, 2) Wait until new policy starts (waiting period: 14-30 days depending on insurer), 3) Cancel old policy (1-month notice usually required), 4) Overlap coverage to avoid gaps. Important: Switching doesn't reset pre-existing conditions (they follow you), new insurer will ask for medical history, anything diagnosed under old insurance becomes pre-existing for new insurer. Don't switch just for €2-3/month savings (coverage consistency matters more). When switching makes sense: Significant premium difference (€10+/month), better coverage (higher annual max, better reimbursement), poor claims experience with current insurer, your pet is still young and healthy (easier to switch).

Best pet insurance for expats in the Netherlands 2026

Name: NLCompass
Address: Netherlands, NL
Price range: Free

Complete comparison of PetSecur, Figo Pet, OHRA, and major providers with 2026 pricing

Last updated: February 24, 2026Verified February 2026

Transparency notice

This guide includes affiliate links. When you sign up for pet insurance through our Figo Pet or PetSecur links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep NLCompass free. We review all providers objectively (both affiliate and non-affiliate options), and our recommendations are based on coverage, pricing, age limits, and expat suitability verified with 2026 data.

2026 pet insurance landscape: Not mandatory, but highly recommended

Pet insurance in the Netherlands is completely voluntary (unlike health insurance which is mandatory). However, roughly half of Dutch pet owners have insurance, and for good reason: veterinary costs can be unexpectedly high (surgeries easily reach €1,000 to €3,000+).

Critical insight

Unlike human health insurance where all basic coverage is identical, pet insurance varies dramatically between providers in terms of coverage, reimbursement rates, age limits, and what's excluded. Young pets (under 2 years) get the best rates and fewest restrictions.

How pet insurance works

Payment flow

You pay monthly premium → Pet needs vet treatment → You pay vet bill upfront → Submit claim to insurer → Get reimbursed (50-90% depending on plan)

Most policies include:

Annual deductible (eigen risico): €0 to €150/year (amount you pay before insurance kicks in)
Reimbursement percentage: 50%, 70%, or 90% (what insurer pays after deductible)
Annual maximum: €3,000 to €12,500 or unlimited (cap on total reimbursements per year)
Waiting period: Most insurers have 30-day wait (PetSecur: 14 days). Coverage starts after signup (prevents people insuring sick pets)

What's typically covered

• Accidents (broken bones, swallowed objects, injuries)
• Illnesses (infections, cancer, chronic conditions)
• Surgeries and hospitalization
• Diagnostic tests (X-rays, blood work, ultrasounds)
• Medications prescribed by vet
• Emergency care

What's typically NOT covered

• Pre-existing conditions (anything pet had before insurance)
• Preventive care (vaccinations, annual checkups) unless supplementary
• Breeding costs
• Cosmetic procedures
• First 14-30 days after signup (waiting period varies by insurer)

Quick comparison (monthly premiums, young adult cat/dog)

Provider	Cat (from)	Dog (from)	Max Age Signup	Annual Max	Reimbursement	Best For
Figo Pet	€6.91	€9.79	No limit	€3,000-unlimited	50-90%	Budget, older pets
PetSecur	€10.91	€12.88	7 years	€3,000-12,500	50-90%	High annual max, flexibility
OHRA	~€12	~€15	7 years	~€5,000	60-80%	Low deductible (€30)
Univé	~€9.37	~€12	10 years (cats), 8 years (dogs)	Varies	70-80%	Older pets accepted
InShared	~€10	~€13	6 years	~€4,000	70-80%	Digital-first
Aegon	~€9.37	~€12	Varies	~€5,000	70%	Traditional insurer
Dierenverzekering.nl	€12.96+	€15+	Varies	Varies	70-80%	Specialist option

Note: Prices shown are starting rates for young, healthy pets. Actual premiums depend on age, breed, chosen deductible, and coverage level.

Bottom line for 2026

For budget-conscious expats: Figo Pet at €6.91/month (cats) or €9.79/month (dogs) is the cheapest and has no age limit for signup (unique in the market).

For comprehensive coverage: PetSecur offers the highest annual maximum (up to €12,500/year) with flexible deductible options and 5% discount through our link.

For older pets: Univé accepts cats up to 10 years and dogs up to 8 years (highest age limits among major insurers, though Figo has no limit at all).

For young pets: Insure before age 2 to lock in best rates and avoid pre-existing condition exclusions. All providers offer good value for puppies/kittens. Learn more in our pet relocation guide.

Ready to insure your pet?

Our two recommended providers cover the full range: lowest prices with no age limit, or highest annual maximum with worldwide coverage.

Best budget: Figo Pet

From €6.91/month. No age limit. Covers cats, dogs, rabbits and parrots.

Get a Figo Pet quote →

Best coverage: PetSecur

From €10.91/month. Up to €12,500/year. Worldwide coverage. 5% discount via our link.

Get PetSecur (5% off) →

💡 These are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. All providers reviewed objectively based on 2026 data.

PetSecur: Highest annual maximum, comprehensive coverage

Official website: petsecur.nl

PetSecur operates on a collective model where pet owners stand surety for each other, helping keep premiums relatively low while offering the highest annual benefit in the Netherlands.

2026 key information

Pricing

• Cats: Starting from €10.91/month
• Dogs: Starting from €12.88/month

Actual premium depends on: Chosen package (Basic, Standard, or Extra), deductible (€0, €50, €100, or €150/year), reimbursement percentage (50%, 70%, or 90%), pet's age and breed.

Three main packages

Basic Package

• Annual maximum: €3,000
• Covers: Accidents, illnesses, surgeries, hospitalization, medications
• Best for: Young, healthy pets with basic coverage needs

Standard Package

• Annual maximum: €6,000
• Covers: Everything in Basic + broader treatment options
• Best for: Most pet owners (good balance of coverage and cost)

Extra Package

• Annual maximum: €12,500 (highest in Netherlands)
• Covers: Most comprehensive coverage available
• Best for: Breeds prone to health issues, peace of mind seekers

Supplementary packages (optional add-ons)

Dental Care: €50 deductible per year, maximum €275 reimbursement/year, covers medically necessary dental treatments
Preventive Care: Vaccinations, annual checkups, flea/tick prevention. Maximum €60 reimbursement/year. Useful for routine wellness
Castration/Sterilization: One-time reimbursement, fixed maximum amounts (varies by procedure), requires 5-year contract commitment, includes all consultations, tests, medications
Cremation: One-time €225 maximum reimbursement, requires death certificate from vet, covers cremation/burial costs

Coverage details

• Deductible options: €0, €50, €100, or €150/year (you choose)
• Reimbursement rates: 50%, 70%, or 90% (you choose)
• Age limit for signup: Up to 7 years old
• Geographic coverage: Worldwide (covers emergency vet care abroad)
• Claim processing: Within 5 working days
• Microchip required: Yes (mandatory for all Dutch pet insurers)

Advantages

• Highest annual maximum in Netherlands (€12,500)
• Flexible deductible options (including €0)
• Worldwide coverage (great for traveling expats)
• Fast claims processing (5 working days)
• No deductible option available
• Customizable packages (choose what you need)
• Collective model (community-based, keeps premiums lower)
• Transparent terms and conditions

Disadvantages

• Age limit 7 years (can't insure older pets)
• 5-year contract required for castration coverage
• Primarily Dutch website (limited English)
• Higher starting premiums than budget options

Who should choose PetSecur?

Pet owners wanting maximum coverage and highest annual limits, expats with purebred dogs prone to health issues (large breeds, brachycephalic breeds), those who travel frequently (worldwide coverage), families wanting comprehensive peace of mind, pet owners comfortable with slightly higher premiums for better coverage.

Setup time: Online signup, coverage starts after 14-day reflection period (shortest in market). Note: Cruciate ligament/skeletal surgeries have 2-month waiting period.

Get 5% discount on PetSecur with NLCompass

Get General Pet Insurance (5% off)

Cat Insurance Dog Insurance

You can also visit petsecur.nl directly to compare packages and calculate your exact premium.

Figo Pet: No age limit, lowest prices, flexible plans

Official website: figopet.nl

Figo Pet is the only Dutch pet insurer with no age limit for signup, and consistently offers the lowest starting premiums in the market. They cover dogs, cats, rabbits, and parrots (unique in NL).

2026 key information

Pricing

• Cats: Starting from €6.91/month (cheapest in market)
• Dogs: Starting from €9.79/month (cheapest in market)
• Rabbits: Available (pricing varies)
• Parrots: Available (pricing varies)

Average pricing: €15 to €40/month depending on coverage choices.

Customizable coverage

Reimbursement percentage (you choose): 50%, 70%, or 90% of vet costs after deductible
Annual benefit (you choose): €3,000/year, €6,000/year, or Unlimited
Deductible (you choose): Annual deductible (higher means lower premium) or per-incident deductible (lower overall if pet is healthy)

Optional add-ons

Dental Coverage: Maximum €500/year for medically necessary dental care. Covers examinations and treatments
Travel Coverage: Maximum €1,000/year for emergency care abroad. Covers illness or accidents while traveling

Coverage details

• Age limit for signup: No limit (unique, all ages accepted)
• Pre-existing conditions: May be excluded via clause (temporary or lifelong)
• Geographic coverage: Netherlands (add travel coverage for abroad)
• Claim processing: Fast online submission, quick payouts
• Microchip required: Yes
• Multi-pet discount: Available

Advantages

• No age limit (only insurer accepting all ages)
• Cheapest starting premiums (€6.91 cats, €9.79 dogs)
• Covers 4 species (dogs, cats, rabbits, parrots)
• Completely customizable (choose every aspect)
• Unlimited annual benefit option
• Modern, digital-first platform
• Good customer reviews (4.1/5 on Trustpilot, 1,810 reviews)
• Multi-pet discounts available
• Fast claim processing

Disadvantages

• Low starting premiums often require high deductibles
• Unlimited coverage means highest premiums
• Pre-existing conditions may be excluded
• Primarily Dutch website
• Travel coverage requires add-on (not included in base)

Who should choose Figo Pet?

Older pet owners (over 7-8 years, no other option), budget-conscious expats wanting lowest premiums, rabbit and parrot owners (unique coverage), expats with multiple pets (discounts available), those wanting complete customization of coverage, young pets where owners want unlimited annual coverage.

Special note for expats: Figo's no age limit policy is crucial if you're moving to Netherlands with an older pet (most other insurers won't accept them).

Setup time: Online signup, coverage starts 30 days after enrollment.

Get pet insurance with Figo Pet

Get a quote from Figo Pet

Visit figopet.nl to compare plans and calculate your exact premium. No age limit for signup.

Affiliate link - we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

OHRA: Low deductible, established insurer, flexibility

Official website: ohra.nl

OHRA is part of NN Group and has offered pet insurance since 1925. Known for low minimum deductible (€30) and flexible, customizable packages.

2026 key information

Pricing

• Cats: Starting from ~€12/month
• Dogs: Starting from ~€15/month

Actual premium depends on chosen modules and coverage level.

Coverage structure

OHRA uses a modular system where you build your own coverage:

Base medical coverage: All medical treatments and procedures, surgeries and hospitalization, emergency care
Supplementary modules (add as needed): Vaccinations and preventive care, specialist treatments, dental care, alternative therapies

Coverage details

• Deductible: Minimum €30 (lowest in market for comprehensive plans)
• Reimbursement: 60-80% (varies by plan)
• Annual maximum: ~€5,000 (varies by package)
• Age limit for signup: Up to 7 years
• Geographic coverage: Netherlands (check policy for travel)
• Claim processing: Online portal (My OHRA)
• Waiting period: 30 days
• Contract options: 1-year or 4-year

Advantages

• Lowest deductible (€30 minimum)
• Modular system (build exactly what you need)
• Established insurer (part of NN Group)
• Good for customization
• Online portal for claims
• No deductible options available

Disadvantages

• Poor customer reviews (1.6/5 on Trustpilot)
• Frequent complaints about claim denials
• Customer service limited hours
• Complex terms and conditions
• Pre-existing condition exclusions broad
• 4-year contract locks you in
• Primarily Dutch interface

Reality check on OHRA

OHRA has consistently poor customer reviews in 2025-2026, particularly around: Claims being denied for "pre-existing conditions" even when not clearly pre-existing, customer service difficult to reach, terms and conditions interpreted very strictly against customer, price increases for older pets while coverage decreases.

Recommendation: While OHRA offers low deductibles and flexible modules, the poor claims experience reported by many customers suggests considering other options first (Figo Pet or PetSecur).

Who should choose OHRA?

Pet owners specifically wanting €30 minimum deductible and willing to accept higher claims dispute risk, those already using OHRA for other insurance (bundling), expats comfortable navigating complex Dutch insurance terms.

Better alternatives for most expats: Figo Pet (better reviews, no age limit) or PetSecur (higher annual max, better claims experience).

Budget and specialist providers

Univé: Best for older pets

Official website: unive.nl

Univé is a regional cooperative insurer with highest age limits for accepting new pets (except Figo).

2026 key information

• Cats: Starting from ~€9.37/month
• Dogs: Starting from ~€12/month

Age limits:

• Cats: Up to 10 years (highest traditional limit)
• Dogs: Up to 8 years (highest traditional limit)
• Older pets: Accident-only coverage available

Coverage: 70-80% reimbursement, moderate annual maximums

Who should choose Univé?

Owners of older cats (8-10 years) or older dogs (6-8 years) who need comprehensive coverage (Figo Pet is better if you just need any coverage), regional residents in Univé's service areas, those wanting traditional cooperative model.

Note: Figo Pet still beats Univé because Figo has no age limit at all, but Univé is solid backup option.

InShared: Digital-first, competitive pricing

Official website: inshared.nl

InShared is a fully online insurer founded in 2009, known for transparent pricing and modern digital platform.

2026 key information

• Cats: Starting from ~€10/month
• Dogs: Starting from ~€13/month
• Age limit: Up to 6 years
• Coverage: 70-80% reimbursement
• Annual maximum: ~€4,000
• Interface: Fully online, Dutch only

Advantages

• Modern digital platform
• Transparent pricing
• Fast online claims
• Competitive mid-range pricing

Disadvantages

• Low age limit (6 years)
• Dutch only
• Moderate annual maximum
• Limited customer service

Who should choose InShared?

Digital-native expats comfortable with Dutch, young pets (under 6 years), those prioritizing online convenience, budget-conscious owners wanting mid-range coverage.

Aegon: Traditional insurer option

Official website: aegon.nl

Aegon is a major financial services company offering pet insurance alongside life insurance and pensions.

2026 key information

• Cats: Starting from ~€9.37/month
• Dogs: Starting from ~€12/month
• Coverage: Standard 70% reimbursement, ~€5,000 annual maximum
• Age limit: Varies by plan (typically 7 years)

Who should choose Aegon?

Those already using Aegon for life insurance or pensions (bundling), expats wanting large, established financial institution, traditional insurance buyers who trust major brands.

Note: No significant advantages over Figo Pet or PetSecur for most expats.

Dierenverzekering.nl: Specialist broker

Official website: dierenverzekering.nl

Specialist pet insurance broker offering various plans from multiple underwriters.

2026 key information

• Pricing: From €12.96/month (higher than budget options)
• Coverage: Various plans, 70-80% typical
• No deductible: Available on some plans

Who should choose Dierenverzekering.nl?

Those wanting specialist pet insurance broker, expats comfortable comparing multiple underlying insurers, specific exotic pet needs.

Note: Most expats better served going direct to Figo Pet or PetSecur for simplicity and transparency.

Common questions

Is pet insurance mandatory in the Netherlands?

No. Pet insurance is completely voluntary. Unlike human health insurance which is legally required, you can choose whether to insure your pet. However, roughly 50% of Dutch pet owners have insurance due to high veterinary costs.

How much does a vet visit actually cost?

Typical costs in Netherlands (2026): Basic consultation €40-60, emergency visit €80-150, X-ray €80-150, blood tests €50-150, dental cleaning €150-350, simple surgery €300-800, complex surgery €1,000-3,000, cancer treatment €2,000-8,000+, chronic condition management €100-500/month. Without insurance: A broken leg surgery costs €1,500-2,500 out-of-pocket. With insurance (90% reimbursement, €50 deductible): You pay €200-300 total.

Can I insure a pet I'm bringing to Netherlands from abroad?

Yes, but timing matters. Best scenario: Insure before any health issues arise and before age 7 (PetSecur, OHRA limit) or any age (Figo). Import considerations: Your pet must have EU pet passport, must be microchipped (required by all insurers), some insurers want recent vet exam confirming health, pre-existing conditions diagnosed abroad will be excluded. Pro tip: If your pet has medical records from abroad showing health issues, these will likely be excluded as pre-existing. Insure early in your move process.

See all 11 questions answered throughout this guide, including questions about coverage limits, switching insurers, preventive care, and more.

How to choose the right pet insurance

Young pet (under 2 years, no health issues)

Recommendation: Figo Pet or PetSecur

Why:

• Lock in low rates early
• Avoid pre-existing condition exclusions
• Young pets = lowest premiums across all insurers
• Figo: €6.91-9.79/month starting (cheapest)
• PetSecur: €10.91-12.88/month (highest annual max)

What to prioritize:

• Get insured NOW before any health issues arise
• Consider unlimited annual coverage (PetSecur Extra or Figo unlimited)
• Choose 70-90% reimbursement (worth the slightly higher premium)

Older pet (6-10+ years)

Recommendation: Figo Pet (only option with no age limit)

Why:

• Figo Pet: No age limit (unique in market)
• Univé: Accepts cats to 10, dogs to 8 (but Figo better)
• PetSecur, OHRA, InShared: 6-7 year maximum (too late)

What to expect:

• Higher premiums (age-based pricing)
• Pre-existing condition exclusions (anything already diagnosed won't be covered)
• May only qualify for accident coverage at some insurers

Reality check: If your pet is over 7 and has existing health issues, insurance may not be cost-effective. Consider setting aside €50-100/month in a dedicated savings account instead.

Purebred dog (breeds prone to health issues)

Recommendation: PetSecur Extra (€12,500 annual maximum)

Why:

• Large breeds: Hip dysplasia, arthritis (expensive ongoing treatment)
• Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs): Breathing issues, surgeries
• Retrievers: Cancer, joint issues
• Treatment costs can easily exceed €5,000/year

Examples of breeds needing high coverage:

• German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors
• French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs
• Great Danes, Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Rottweilers, Boxers

What to prioritize:

• Highest annual maximum (PetSecur €12,500 or Figo unlimited)
• 90% reimbursement rate
• Low or €0 deductible
• Worldwide coverage (if you travel)

Budget-conscious expat

Recommendation: Figo Pet Basic

Why:

• €6.91/month cats, €9.79/month dogs (cheapest in market)
• Choose 50% reimbursement + €150 deductible = lowest premium
• €3,000 annual maximum (sufficient for most accidents)

Trade-offs:

• You'll pay more out-of-pocket per claim (50% vs 90%)
• €150 deductible means first €150 each year is yours
• Lower annual max (won't cover chronic/expensive conditions fully)

Best strategy for budget expats:

1. Take Figo Pet Basic (50%, €3,000 max, €150 deductible)
2. Set aside €25-50/month in savings for deductible and co-pays
3. You're covered for accidents/emergencies, but save for routine care

Frequent traveler / international expat

Recommendation: PetSecur (worldwide coverage included)

Why:

• Worldwide emergency coverage included in base plans
• No need to buy travel add-on
• Great for expats who visit home country frequently
• Useful for EU travel (many expats explore Europe with pets)

Alternative: Figo Pet + Travel add-on (€1,000/year travel coverage)

What's covered abroad:

• Emergency vet care due to accidents
• Emergency illness treatment
• Necessary surgeries while traveling

What's NOT covered abroad:

• Routine checkups abroad
• Scheduled procedures
• Non-emergency care

Multiple pets

Recommendation: Figo Pet (multi-pet discount available)

Why:

• Figo offers multi-pet discounts
• Insure 2+ pets and save on premiums
• Manage all policies in one account

Example savings:

• 1 cat: €6.91/month
• 2 cats: ~€12-13/month (discount applied)
• 3+ pets: Contact Figo for quote

Alternative: PetSecur also worth comparing if you want higher annual maximums.

2026 recommendations summary

Priority	Recommendation	Monthly Cost	Why
Best overall	PetSecur	€10.91+ (cats), €12.88+ (dogs)	Highest annual max (€12,500), worldwide coverage, 5% discount
Budget option	Figo Pet	€6.91+ (cats), €9.79+ (dogs)	Cheapest, no age limit, customizable
Older pets	Figo Pet	€15-40/month	Only option with no age limit
High coverage	PetSecur Extra	€20-40/month	€12,500 annual max or Figo unlimited
Young healthy pets	Figo Pet or PetSecur	€6.91-12.88/month	Lock in low rates, avoid exclusions
Multiple pets	Figo Pet	Varies	Multi-pet discounts
Travelers	PetSecur	€10.91+/month	Worldwide coverage included
Traditional insurer	Aegon or Univé	€9.37-12/month	Established financial institutions

Final verdict: PetSecur for comprehensive, Figo for budget/older pets

For most expats: PetSecur

PetSecur offers the best combination of comprehensive coverage and value in 2026. The €12,500 annual maximum is crucial for breeds prone to expensive conditions, and worldwide coverage is perfect for traveling expats. Get 5% off through our links.

Get PetSecur Cat Insurance →Get PetSecur Dog Insurance →

For budget-conscious expats: Figo Pet

At €6.91/month (cats) or €9.79/month (dogs), Figo Pet offers the lowest premiums in the market. The no age limit policy also makes it the only option for older pets (7+ years). Highly customizable coverage.

Visit: figopet.nl to build your custom plan.

For older pets (7+ years): Figo Pet only

If your pet is over 7 years old, Figo Pet is your only realistic option with no age limit. Univé accepts up to 8-10 years depending on species, but Figo's unlimited age policy is unmatched.

When to skip pet insurance entirely

Skip insurance if:

• Your pet is 10+ years with multiple chronic conditions (too many exclusions)
• You have €5,000+ in emergency savings dedicated to pet care
• You're comfortable "self-insuring" (saving premium amount yourself)
• Your pet is very healthy and you accept the financial risk

The alternative: Open a separate savings account, deposit €30-50/month religiously. After 2 years = €720-1,200 emergency fund. After 5 years = €1,800-3,000. You keep everything if pet stays healthy, or use it for care if needed.

Next steps after choosing your pet insurance

Complete your Netherlands pet setup:

Get pet insurance

PetSecur (5% off) or Figo Pet recommended. Sign up within 30 days of moving to avoid coverage gaps.

Register with Dutch vet

Find English-speaking vets in your area. Many expat-friendly practices in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague.

Microchip registration

Required by law in Netherlands. Register with Europetnet or your municipality. Costs €25-50 at vet.

Get EU Pet Passport

Required for travel within EU. Available from any Dutch vet for ~€15-25. Needed for returning home or EU vacations.

Set up Dutch bank account

Insurance requires Dutch bank for direct debit. See our banking comparison guide.

Check our expat checklist

Complete your full Netherlands setup checklist including health insurance and internet providers.

Ready to insure your pet?

Compare and sign up:

1. Use calculators on PetSecur or Figo Pet websites
2. Enter your pet's age, breed, and health status
3. Choose coverage level (annual max, reimbursement %, deductible)
4. Compare total annual cost (premium × 12 + expected out-of-pocket)
5. Sign up online (coverage starts after waiting period: PetSecur 14 days, others 30 days)
6. Register microchip and get confirmation number
7. Save insurer's contact info and policy number

Don't wait: The younger and healthier your pet when you insure, the lower your premiums and fewer exclusions. Every month delay is a month where an accident or illness could create a pre-existing condition exclusion.