How Do Expats Get Health Insurance in Germany?

If you're moving to Germany, one of your first priorities will be securing health insurance. It's not just recommended—it's required. You'll need proof of coverage to apply for your visa, and you must register with an insurer within your first month of arrival.

The good news? Germany's healthcare system is world-class, and as an international resident, you have full access to it. Let's walk through how it works.

The German Healthcare System

Germany offers two types of health insurance:

Around 90% of residents are covered by public insurance. But depending on your situation, private insurance may offer better value and more comprehensive coverage.

Public Health Insurance (GKV)

Who's covered?

• Employees earning below €77,400 per year (mandatory)
• Spouses and children earning less than €520/month (covered at no extra cost)
• Pensioners who contributed during their working years

What does it cost?

The contribution is approximately 14.6% of your gross income, plus an additional 1–2% depending on your provider. Your employer pays half.

Contributions are capped at the income ceiling (Beitragsbemessungsgrenze) of €69,750 per year—so high earners don't pay more above this threshold.

Coverage by situation

What's covered?

• Inpatient and outpatient care
• GP and specialist visits
• Prescription medications
• Basic dental care
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Sick pay (Krankengeld): After 6 weeks of employer-paid leave, your insurer pays up to 70% of your salary for up to 78 weeks

Private Health Insurance (PKV)

Who's eligible?

• Employees earning above €77,400 per year
• Freelancers and self-employed (regardless of income)
• Students who opt out of public insurance

How are premiums calculated?

Private insurance premiums are based on:

• Your age when you join
• Your health status and history
• The coverage level you select

Unlike public insurance, your income doesn't affect the premium—making private insurance particularly attractive for young, healthy, high earners.

Benefits over public insurance

• Faster appointments with specialists
• Private hospital rooms
• Direct access to specialists without GP referral
• More English-speaking doctors
• Enhanced dental and vision coverage

How claims work

With private insurance, you typically pay the doctor directly and submit claims for reimbursement. Most insurers now offer apps that make this quick and straightforward.

How to Apply

If you're an employee

Your employer will register you with a public insurer. However, you can choose your own provider—just inform your employer within two weeks of starting work.

If you're self-employed or freelance

1. Take your passport and residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) to a regional health insurance office

2. Complete the registration forms

3. Choose a provider based on:

• Contribution rate and services
• Customer service quality
• Supplementary benefits offered

After registration

You'll receive an insurance card (Versicherungskarte) to present at medical appointments. With public insurance, this is all you need. With private insurance, you'll also manage claims through your provider's app or portal.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between public and private insurance depends on your income, health, family situation, and how long you plan to stay in Germany.

If you're unsure which option is right for you, we're here to help. At Stay, we guide international residents through the process with clear, personalised advice—so you can focus on settling into your new life.