The government expects health insurance premiums to rise by around €3 a month next year, the AD said on Thursday, quoting cabinet sources.

The estimated annual rise of €37 would take the average annual premium to €1,421, the paper said. The formal estimate will be published on September 17, when the government announces its 2020 spending plans.

There are no plans to increase the standard own risk element in health insurance, which will remain at €385. Consumers can increase this to €885 in return for lower premiums.

Although the government always publishes an estimated increase, it is up to health insurance companies themselves how much to charge.

Last year the government said it expected premiums to rise by €10, but most insurers kept to an average of €8 a month, according to research by insurance comparison website Zorgwijzer.nl.

The 2020 rates must be published by mid November, ahead of the six week window for changing health insurance company. DSW is traditionally the first to do so, and set the pace for the rest.