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Germany is renowned for its excellent healthcare system, providing top-notch and affordable medical care to its citizens. However, understanding and maneuvering through the German health insurance system can be bewildering, particularly for foreigners unfamiliar with its rules and regulations. Let's explore the primary health insurance options in Germany, their functioning, and the factors to consider when selecting a plan that meets your requirements and financial constraints.
Germany is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world, offering high-quality and affordable medical care to its residents. However, navigating the German health insurance system can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for foreigners who are not familiar with the rules and regulations. Let’s understand the main types of health insurance in Germany, how they work, and what to consider when choosing a plan that suits your needs and budget.
In This Guide |
The German Health Insurance System
The German health insurance system is divided into two tiers: public and private insurance providers. By law, everyone who lives in Germany must have some form of health insurance coverage, either statutory (public) or private, issued by a licensed medical insurance provider. The type of health insurance you can get depends on your income, citizenship, family size, employment status, and overall health.
Public Health Insurance in Germany
Public health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung – GKV) is the most common form of health insurance in Germany. It is funded by social security contributions from employers and employees, as well as taxes from the government. Public health insurance offers a comprehensive range of benefits, such as:
Free choice of doctors and hospitals within the public network
Free preventive care and screenings
Free or subsidized prescription drugs
Free or subsidized dental care
Free maternity care and childbirth
Free family insurance for spouses and children
Sick leave and sick pay
Long-term care insurance
The monthly premium for public health insurance is based on a percentage of your gross income (around 14.6% in 2023), which is split equally between you and your employer.
There are over 100 public health insurance providers (Krankenkassen) in Germany, each offering slightly different services and rates. Some of the most popular ones are:
Techniker Krankenkasse
Barmer
AOK
DAK-Gesundheit
You can compare the different public health insurance providers and their benefits on krankenkassen.de
To apply for public health insurance in Germany, you need to register with a provider of your choice and fill out an application form. You will also need to provide some documents, such as:
Your passport or ID card
Your visa or residence permit (if applicable)
Your registration certificate (Anmeldung)
Your employment contract or proof of income
Your bank account details
Once you are enrolled, you will receive a health insurance card (Gesundheitskarte), which you need to present whenever you visit a doctor or hospital.
Private Health Insurance in Germany
Private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung – PKV) is an alternative option for those who are not eligible or do not want to join the public health insurance system. Private health insurance offers some advantages over public health insurance, such as:
Shorter waiting times and faster appointments
Access to more doctors and hospitals, including private clinics
More personalized and flexible coverage options
Higher reimbursement rates for medical expenses
Better-quality facilities and equipment
Once you switch to private health insurance, you cannot go back to public health insurance unless your income drops below the threshold or you change your employment status.
The monthly premium for private health insurance depends on various factors, such as your age, gender, health condition, coverage level, deductible amount, and provider.
Unlike public health insurance, private health insurance does not cover your dependents for free; you have to pay an additional premium for each family member. Private health insurance also does not include long-term care insurance; you have to purchase it separately.
There are many private health insurance companies in Germany, offering different plans and rates. Some of the private health insurance companies in Germany are:
Allianz Care
Cigna Global
DFV
Feather
Ottonova
You can also compare the best private (as well as public) health insurance providers in Germany and get personalized advice and quotes for free on MW Expats.
To apply for private health insurance in Germany, you need to contact a provider of your choice and fill out an application form. You will also need to provide some documents, such as:
Your passport or ID card
Your visa or residence permit (if applicable)
Your registration certificate (Anmeldung)
Your employment contract or proof of income
Your medical history and health questionnaire
The provider will then assess your application and offer you a quote based on your risk profile. You may also have to undergo a medical examination or provide additional information. Once you accept the offer, you will receive a confirmation and a policy document.
Settle In Germany has a very good guide that compares the public and private insurances in Germany. So, be sure to check it out.
Expat Health Insurance in Germany
Expat health insurance is a special type of private health insurance designed for foreigners who are living or working in Germany temporarily or permanently. Expat health insurance offers some benefits over public or private health insurance, such as:
Worldwide coverage for medical emergencies and treatments
No waiting periods or restrictions for pre-existing conditions
No minimum income or residency requirements
Flexible contract duration and cancellation options
Multilingual customer service and support
Expat health insurance is suitable for anyone who wants to have comprehensive and flexible coverage while living in Germany, regardless of their income or employment status. It is especially recommended for those who travel frequently, have chronic or complex health issues, or do not qualify for public or private health insurance.
There are many expat health insurance companies in Germany, offering different plans and rates. Some of the expat health insurance companies in Germany are:
Feather
Cigna Global
Foyer Global Health
Mawista
Swisscare
To apply for expat health insurance in Germany, you need to contact a provider of your choice and fill out an online application form. You will also need to provide some documents, such as:
Your passport or ID card
Your visa or residence permit (if applicable)
Your registration certificate (Anmeldung)
Your proof of travel or relocation (if applicable)
The provider will then assess your application and offer you a quote based on your personal and medical information. You can then choose a plan that suits your needs and budget. Once you accept the offer, you will receive a confirmation and a policy document.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Health Insurance Plan in Germany
Choosing a health insurance plan in Germany can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider and compare. Here are some of the most important ones:
Coverage: What services and treatments are included in the plan? Are there any exclusions or limitations? How much reimbursement do you get for medical expenses?
Cost: How much is the monthly premium? Are there any co-payments or deductibles? How does the premium change over time or with age?
Eligibility: Do you meet the income, residency, or health requirements for the plan? Are there any waiting periods or restrictions for pre-existing conditions?
Flexibility: How easy is it to change or cancel the plan? Can you choose your own doctors and hospitals? Can you adjust your coverage level or add-ons?
Quality: How reliable and reputable is the provider? How good is the customer service and support? How fast and easy is the claim process?
To help you make an informed decision, you can use online tools and resources to compare different plans and providers, such as:
If you wish to get much more comprehensive and personalized advice and guidance based on your situation and needs, you can use the service from MW Expats who provide English speaking support.
Tips on What to Watch Out for When Signing Up for Health Insurance in Germany
Signing up for health insurance in Germany can be a smooth and easy process if you follow the steps and requirements of your chosen provider. However, there are also some potential pitfalls and challenges that you should be aware of and avoid when signing up for health insurance in Germany, such as:
Not having health insurance at all: This is illegal and risky, as you will have to pay for all your medical expenses out of pocket and may face fines or penalties from the authorities. You should always have some form of health insurance coverage as soon as you arrive in Germany or before you apply for a visa or residence permit.
Not having adequate health insurance coverage: This can lead to unexpected costs and gaps in your medical care, especially if you have special needs or conditions that are not covered by your plan. You should always check the details and benefits of your plan carefully and make sure it meets your needs and expectations.
Not informing your provider of any changes: This can result in your plan being invalid or canceled, or your premium being increased or decreased. You should always inform your provider of any changes in your personal or medical information, such as your income, address, marital status, health condition, or family size.
Not comparing different plans and providers: This can result in you paying more than you need to or missing out on better options and deals. You should always compare different plans and providers before you sign up for health insurance in Germany and look for the best value and quality for your money.
Not reading the fine print: This can result in misunderstandings, disputes, or disappointments with your plan or provider. You should always read the fine print and terms and conditions of your plan and contract carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear or confusing.
By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and problems when signing up for health insurance in Germany and enjoy a hassle-free and secure healthcare experience.
Conclusion
Health insurance in Germany is an essential and mandatory part of living and working in the country. Whether you choose public, private, or expat health insurance, you can benefit from a high-quality and affordable healthcare system that covers most of your medical needs. However, choosing a health insurance plan in Germany can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider and compare. Therefore, you should do your research, use online tools and resources, consult with experts, and read the fine print before you sign up for health insurance in Germany. By doing so, you can find the best plan and provider for your situation and budget and enjoy a smooth and easy healthcare experience in Germany.
About MW Expat Solutions
At MW Expat, we are more than just an independent insurance broker. We are your trusted partner for creating and protecting your financial future. We understand how hard you work to grow your investments and retirement funds, and how important it is to safeguard what you have already achieved.
That’s why we offer you tailor-made insurance and pension solutions that suit your needs and goals. We help you prepare for the unexpected risks that can derail your financial plans, such as accidents, illnesses, or other emergencies.
