How to Get Insurance in Germany as an Expat

Key Takeaways

• Visa‑recognized plans can provide fast confirmation documents for residency and entry.
• Minimums usually include pandemic cover and repatriation costs (~€30,000).
• Newcomer plans often allow up to five years and monthly cancellation.
• Independent digital advice helps match coverage to work, family, and budget.
• Learn how premiums, deductibles, and telemedicine affect care access.

About Insurancy: Independent, digital advice for expats in Germany

Insurancy delivers neutral, web‑based advice so internationals can compare health plans and related protections without pressure. The service evaluates multiple insurers and finds policies that match visa and residency requirements.

Digital tools guide you from an online assessment to tailored recommendations and visa‑ready documents. That makes it fast to proceed whether you apply from abroad or after arrival.

The scope covers health insurance, pensions and complementary options such as liability, legal, and household cover. Guidance considers employment status, family members, and intended length of stay to match the right policy to your needs.

Transparent information shows benefits, limits, and likely costs so you can decide with confidence. Ongoing changes — job starts, salary shifts, or family additions — are handled digitally with clear next steps.

Recommendations remain evidence‑based and aligned with local frameworks to ensure documents meet authority checks while keeping care expectations high.

• Independent comparison across insurers
• Online assessment, tailored recommendations, document support
• Advice on health insurance, pensions, and everyday risk cover

Our goal is simple: reduce bureaucracy and give timely, accurate information so you can confidently live germany with clear next steps.

Expat insurance in Germany: what it covers and when you need it

Incoming plans are built to meet visa and residence requirements while you settle. Typical minimums include inpatient and outpatient treatment, pandemic cover, and a documented repatriation amount (many policies list €30,000).

Newcomer plans suit stays of months up to five years and often allow monthly termination. Extended plans become sensible when you expect multi‑year residence or begin employment that changes your status.

Documentation and practical features

Many providers issue visa‑compliant confirmation immediately or within 24 hours after signup. That document is accepted by migration authorities for residence checks and embassy filings.

• Access to care: free choice of doctor and direct specialist visits reduce waiting times.
• Digital claims: upload invoices via app, track status, and get fast reimbursements.
• Payments: some companies offer inpatient direct billing after prior approval to avoid large upfront costs.

Tip: compare repatriation amounts, inpatient room options, and exclusions to match cost and expected treatment needs. Students and researchers often start with an incoming health insurance plan for the first months before switching to local systems.

How German health insurance works: public, private, and expat options

Different systems set distinct rules for who can join, how much you pay, and how you access doctors and hospitals.

Public (GKV): who qualifies, contributions, and access

The public scheme covers employees below certain income brackets and many residents by default. Contributions are income-based and split with an employer for salaried workers.

Family members with no income often get free family coverage. Access to care is straightforward: doctors bill the fund directly and approvals are rarely needed for routine treatment.

Private (PKV): underwriting, aging reserves, and thresholds

Private plans use individual medical underwriting and may offer higher benefit options like a single hospital room or faster specialist access.

PKV tariffs can build aging reserves to stabilise premiums long term. Note the 2025 employee threshold of €73,800 gross per year to opt for private health insurance. Percentage deductibles with caps are common in some private tariffs.

Temporary/incoming policies: flexible cover up to five years

Incoming policies are designed for short stays and often exclude aging reserves. They satisfy visa checks and may later upgrade to full private cover without new health checks in some cases.

Typical features include fast reimbursements, telemedicine, concierge services, and direct specialist access. Prior approval is common for inpatient treatment, unlike public billing.

• GKV: income-based contributions, direct billing, family cover.
• PKV: risk-based pricing, underwriting, aging reserves, choice of room and services.
• Temporary: flexible months or years, visa-ready documents, fast admin.

Requirements for residence permits and visas: proving adequate health coverage

Authorities require clear proof of adequate medical cover before they issue a residence permit or visa. Read that as a document showing your policy details, period, and the scope of care. Getting the right certificate avoids appointment delays and possible rescheduling.

Documents typically requested include a certificate that lists inpatient and outpatient coverage, the repatriation amount, policy period, and insured person details matching the passport.

When you receive documents

Many providers issue a visa‑compliant confirmation on the same day or within 24 hours after signup. This timing helps meet embassy or migration office appointments without losing days.

Coverage criteria authorities expect

• Core cover: medically necessary medical treatment, hospitalization, and outpatient care.
• Repatriation: a stated amount (many policies show ~€30,000; amounts vary by tariff).
• Policy period: clear start and end dates covering arrival and the required months.

For planned hospital stays, insurers often require medical reports before approving direct billing. Once approved, the hospital coordinates costs with the provider.

Local rules may differ by country. Keep printed and digital copies for the year, update details if passport or residence data change, and expect separate administrative fees charged by authorities.

Costs, premiums, and deductibles: what expats should budget

Monthly costs vary widely; understanding what drives your premium helps you budget for the first year. Start by listing age, desired benefits, and any add‑ons like dental or private room choices. These items shape the monthly amount and the annual cost.

What affects the monthly contribution

Core drivers are age, coverage scope (inpatient vs outpatient), dental and vision options, and optional add‑ons such as repatriation or global cover. Room preferences and prosthesis percentages also raise the premium.

Deductible models and examples

Two common models appear: percentage co‑pays capped per year and fixed excess per insurance year.

Example: a 10% deductible capped at €500 means you split small bills until the €500 cap is met; after that, the policy pays eligible amounts.

Reimbursement timelines and waiting periods

Many providers process digital claims rapidly; complete documentation often yields reimbursement in a few days. Delays occur if medical reports or receipts are missing.

Waiting periods commonly include three months for routine pregnancy treatment and eight months for childbirth. Acute complications are usually covered immediately, but always check the policy wording.

“Balance the premium, deductible, and expected use so your health insurance plan remains sustainable.”

• Plan monthly and yearly budgets for premiums, fees, co‑pays, and excluded treatments.
• Check whether your policy allows monthly termination at month end for flexibility.
• Read tariff details for prior‑approval rules on inpatient treatment.

Accessing care: doctors, specialists, hospitals, and telemedicine

A simple workflow helps you access services fast: select accredited doctors, use telemedicine, and submit digital claims for reimbursement. This section gives clear, practical steps to see a doctor or specialist and manage hospital stays.

Choosing providers and seeing a specialist

Many newcomer and private health plans allow direct access to accredited doctors and specialists. You can often book a specialist visit without a referral, which shortens waiting times.

When referrals help: use a referral for complex cases or to coordinate multi‑disciplinary treatment. Concierge services in some tariffs can book appointments or point you to English‑speaking providers.

Bring a policy card or certificate, photo ID, and recent medical records to each visit to streamline care on the day.

Digital claims, direct billing, and fast reimbursement

For outpatient bills, take a clear photo of the invoice and upload it via the insurer app or web portal. Track the claim status and expect many reimbursements within days when documentation is complete.

For inpatient stays, contact your provider early. Provide admission notes, discharge summaries, and full reports so prior approval can be arranged and direct billing set up with the hospital.

• Organise invoices by year and keep originals for major treatments.
• Notify the plan promptly if months of ongoing treatment require preauthorisation.
• Use telemedicine for minor issues, prescription renewals, or same‑day advice to save travel time.

“Prepare documents, notify your provider early for hospital stays, and use digital claims to speed reimbursement.”

Switching paths: from expat plans to public or private health insurance

A change of job, salary, or long‑term residence plans often triggers a switch to a standard public or private product. Timing the move avoids coverage gaps and helps you compare long‑term costs.

Upgrading when you start work or extend your stay

Typical triggers are starting a salaried job, planning to stay several years, or crossing an earnings threshold.

Employees earning above €73,800 gross in 2025 can opt for private health insurance. Payroll handling differs: public contributions are shared with employers, while private premiums sit with the employee.

Aging reserves vs no‑reserve short‑term tariffs

Short‑term plans often exclude aging reserves because they target stays under five years. That keeps premiums lower now but reduces long‑term premium stability.

Full private products build aging reserves to smooth premiums as you age. This matters if you plan to stay many years or want predictable costs by retirement.

How to move and avoid gaps

To switch, provide your current certificate, employer payroll letter (if applicable), and a new plan confirmation to authorities. Ask both providers about mid‑month overlaps.

Some companies refund overlapping months or pro‑rate premiums. Confirm reimbursement practices before you cancel the first plan.

“Review long‑term goals and family needs before switching—short‑term savings can mean higher costs later.”

Which insurances can we advise you on?

Overview of sites in English

Private Customers

Business Customers

Special cases: students, freelancers, researchers, and dependents

Whether you arrive to study, research, or start freelance work, the right plan depends on status, duration, and documents. This section explains clear options and what each person must provide to get valid coverage fast.

Students and researchers

When to use a newcomer plan: for the first months while you register at a university or await employment. Semester enrollment or a research contract can change eligibility quickly.

Common documents: admission letter or research contract, passport, residence address, and a start date. Many providers issue a visa‑ready certificate within 24 hours.

Self‑employed and freelancers

Assess public versus private routes after arrival. Consider income variability, expected years living here, and desired benefits like dental or single‑room hospital stays.

Get quotes that model future years and include underwriting notes for private health plans before committing.

Adding family members and duration limits

Each person normally holds a separate policy and certificate. Align start dates to avoid gaps and make claims simpler for the whole household.

Short‑term newcomer tariffs often extend up to five years. Confirm whether child care items—U1–U9 checkups and routine vaccinations—are covered before arrival.

• Continuity: coordinate switching dates when moving from student to employment status so months of cover remain continuous.
• Inpatient claims: prior approval usually enables direct billing; submit admission notes and ID early.
• Cancellations: many plans allow month‑end termination; extensions can be requested before expiry.

Beyond health: pension options and financial protection for expats

Retirement planning and everyday risk cover should sit alongside medical choices. A basic understanding helps you balance monthly cost and long‑term security.

Statutory and private pension layers

The statutory pension is contribution based and linked to payroll for employees. Self-employed people may follow different rules and contributions depend on time worked and declared earnings.

Private pension plans can top up future income. Many offers are portable if you relocate, but check surrender values and tax rules before you commit.

Personal liability, legal, and household cover

Personal liability protects you if you damage another person or their property. Legal protection helps with disputes, and household cover insures contents and damage to your home.

• Coverage limits and deductible options directly affect premium and out‑of‑pocket cost.
• Inventory home contents and set liability limits to local norms to avoid underinsurance.
• Many services offer full digital onboarding, claims, and policy changes for each person.

“Review documents closely to understand exclusions, fees, and claim response times.”

The Insurancy process: get personalized, online advice and a compliant policy

Start with a short online questionnaire that captures your visa timeline, work plans, household composition, and expected years of stay. This helps advisors shortlist suitable options and check basic requirements fast.

Step-by-step: assessment, recommendation, signup, and proof for authorities

Assessment: a few minutes of answers produce tailored results and a ranked list of plans that match coverage needs and budget.

Recommendation: the platform compares benefits, deductibles, expected reimbursement time, and visa‑readiness so you can pick an appropriate policy.

Signup: complete the digital application and receive the confirmation and authority‑ready certificate often the same day or within 24 days. Providers typically issue a visa‑compliant document immediately after signup confirmation or within 24 hours.

Managing your policy: changes, extensions, and cancellations

For claims, upload invoices via the app and monitor status. Reimbursement can occur within days when documentation is complete. For inpatient stays, arrange prior approval and submit admission and discharge notes to enable direct billing.

If your job or family situation changes, request modifications or extensions before the month of expiry so continuity is maintained. Many plans allow cancellation at the end of any month by email—confirm overlap rules when switching plans.

1. Need assessment: visa dates, employment, family.
2. Compare: benefits, deductibles, reimbursement timelines.
3. Sign up: digital application and fast certificate delivery.
4. Manage: claims upload, prior approval for inpatient, and timely changes.

“Transparent information at each step reduces delays for residence permit appointments and helps you proceed with confidence.”

Moving to Germany timeline: what to do before and after arrival

A clear timeline helps you lock the right cover before arrival and avoid delays at registration. Follow the checklist below to sequence visa‑ready documents, registration, and plan changes efficiently.

Pre-arrival: secure visa-ready cover and collect documents

Choose a health policy recognised by authorities and confirm it includes inpatient, outpatient, and repatriation cover. Request the visa‑ready certificate a few days before your embassy appointment; many providers issue this within 24 hours.

Prepare passport, proof of accommodation, financial means, and the certificate covering the required period and months for your visa.

Post-arrival: registration, residence permit, and plan adjustments

On arrival day keep policy certificates and ID for Anmeldung and early appointments. Register your address within the first weeks and book the residence permit meeting.

Understand waiting periods for pregnancy (three months) and childbirth (eight months) and plan medical care accordingly.

• Verify nearby doctors using provider directories and note emergency contacts.
• Submit claims quickly via the portal to speed reimbursement and avoid backlogs.
• If employment or status changes, request extensions before expiry and cancel at month end to prevent overlap.

Conclusion

In short, match temporary, public, or private paths to your timeline, work status, and expected years of stay. Shorter stays use newcomer plans for the first months; payroll roles often lead to public or private options.

Secure a visa‑compliant certificate that lists inpatient, outpatient, and repatriation cover. Budget for monthly premiums, deductibles, and co‑pays, and check typical reimbursement times before you sign.

Plan care access: choose providers, use telemedicine, and seek prior approval for hospital admissions to avoid surprises. Review your setup after a few months or when family or job changes occur.

Insurancy offers independent, digital guidance to help expats meet requirements and access care without administrative friction.

FAQ

How do I get health coverage when moving to Germany in 2025?

Start by checking visa requirements for health coverage and choose either public (GKV) or private (PKV) based on your employment status, income, and age. Digital brokers like Insurancy offer independent advice and can compare compliant plans, generate the proof-of-coverage document needed for visa and residence permit applications, and help with registration after arrival.

What does a typical incoming health plan cover for short‑ and long‑term stays?

Short‑term plans focus on emergency care, outpatient visits, and repatriation, while extended policies add inpatient treatment, maternity, and specialist care. Many flexible policies offer coverage for up to five years and include options for dental, mental health, and telemedicine services depending on the chosen product.

Which documents do authorities expect to see for a residence permit?

Authorities typically require a policy certificate showing minimum benefits, proof of inpatient and outpatient coverage, repatriation or evacuation clauses, and contact details for the insurer. Your insurer or advisor can issue a visa‑ready letter that meets local authority standards.

Who qualifies for the public system and how are contributions calculated?

Employees earning below the PKV income threshold qualify for the public system. Contributions are income‑based and split between employer and employee. Family members without income are usually covered at no extra charge under a family policy.

What should I know about private plans and underwriting?

Private providers use medical underwriting and age at entry to set premiums. Some tariffs build aging reserves that reduce future increases; others are no‑reserve expat tariffs with lower entry costs but higher later rises. Compare long‑term impacts, coverage limits, and reimbursement processes.

How much do monthly premiums typically cost and what affects the price?

Premiums vary widely by age, coverage level, deductible, and medical history. Lower deductibles raise monthly costs; broader inpatient and dental benefits do too. Location, profession, and whether you include family members also influence the final amount.

What are common deductible models and how does reimbursement work?

Many plans offer fixed annual deductibles or tiered co‑pays. You submit receipts for outpatient care for reimbursement; inpatient stays are often billed directly by hospitals to the insurer if pre-authorized. Processing times vary but digital claims speed reimbursements.

Are there waiting periods for maternity or pre‑existing conditions?

Yes. Maternity and pregnancy-related services often carry waiting periods ranging from several months to a year. Private plans may limit coverage for pre‑existing conditions or apply additional waiting times. Always check the policy wording before purchase.

How do I find doctors, specialists, and hospitals that accept my plan?

Public plan members use the GKV network and may need referrals for specialists. Private members can usually choose any provider that accepts private billing. Use insurer provider directories and telemedicine services for fast access and second opinions.

Can I switch from an incoming plan to public or private coverage later?

Yes. If you start employment and meet the income threshold for PKV, you may switch to private. If you are below the threshold or become a standard employee, you may join the public system. Timing, medical underwriting, and prior coverage length affect options.

What is the PKV income threshold for 2025 and why does it matter?

The annual threshold for 2025 is €73,800. Earning above this level as an employee makes you eligible for private plans. This threshold determines whether you must remain in the public system or can choose to move to private coverage.

How do student, freelancer, and researcher options differ?

Students often get special student tariffs with lower premiums and mandatory minimum coverage. Freelancers choose between voluntary public contributions or private plans, weighing costs and future portability. Researchers on fixed contracts may use employer‑sponsored options or tailored incoming policies.

Can I add family members and how long are they covered?

Public plans usually include non‑working spouses and children at no extra cost. Private plans require separate premiums for each person. Coverage duration depends on the selected policy; some incoming tariffs limit family coverage to the duration of the policy term.

What other financial protections should internationals consider?

Complement health coverage with personal liability, legal protection, household contents, and private pension plans. German statutory pension provides a base layer; many internationals add private retirement savings to secure future income.

How does the online advice and signup process work with an independent advisor?

A typical digital process includes an assessment of needs, tailored recommendations, online application, medical underwriting if needed, and issuance of proof documents for authorities. Advisors also help with policy management, extensions, and cancellations.

What should I do before arrival and immediately after I land?

Before arrival, secure visa‑compliant coverage and gather medical records and identification. After arrival, register your address (Anmeldung), present your proof of coverage to the immigration office, and update your plan if your employment or family situation changes.

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