Health Insurance in Germany

Download Siemens-Betriebskrankenkasse (SBK) brochure for a professional and complete overview of the health insurance services they provide in Germany. Filled with additional information for expats moving to Germany, it provides a good overview of the German healthcare.

In Germany, the health insurance system is based on the principle of social insurance. Insurance coverage is based on and operated with a dual system consisting of statutory health insurance (SHI/GKV), in German referred to as Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, and private health insurance (PHI/PKV) referred to as Private Krankenversicherung.

Do you work or study in Germany and would like to find out more about the German health insurance system?The German health system is very comprehensive and supports you in the event of illness. Everyone who works or studies in Germany contributes to the health system with their membership in a health insurance – and is thus insured in the event of illness.

All foreigners living and working in Germany need expat health insurance. It is mandatory to show proof of health insurance when applying for a German VISA or residence permit. Once you become a German resident it is compulsory to take out health insurance in Germany, according to law, and register with either public health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenkasse, GVK) or private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PVK).

Having comprehensive coverage is essential for expats living in Germany. While the healthcare system here is esteemed for its excellence, it imposes a requirement for all residents, including expatriates, to have a health insurance plan. Without proper coverage, expats may face significant financial burdens in case of unexpected medical emergencies.

Discover the best health insurance options for self-employed and freelancers in Germany. Navigate the complexities of GKV and PKV with expert guidance.

APRIL International have partnered with Expat Brokers GmbH to bring you an international private medical insurance policy designed for freelancers and self-employed expatriates living in Germany.

Everyone who is resident in Germany is legally required to have sufficient health insurance coverage. The insurance coverage in Germany is based on a dual system consisting of public health insurance (also referred to as statutory health insurance) and private health insurance. German health insurance for foreigners consists of, generally, three (3) options for coverage:

What does being “well-insured” really mean when it comes to obtaining mandatory health insurance in Germany? The cost and coverage of an insurance policy, as well as its suitability for your personal situation while living as an expat in Germany, may be the only apparent determining factors for whether or not you made the right choice in healthcare. However, there are several other equally important aspects that determine whether you made the best choice for health insurance – or merely a good one.

If you are planning to move or if you are already living in Germany you are required by law to have a valid health insurance which is BaFin approved and accepted by the authorities.