Do I need private health insurance or can I stay on public insurance?
That depends on your employment type, income, and how long you plan to stay in Germany. As an employee, you can only choose private health insurance (PKV) if your gross annual salary exceeds the statutory threshold – currently €73,800 (as of 2025).self-employed , freelance , or a civil servant , you can usually choose between public and private insurance regardless of income. Students may also have a choice during the early years of study.
Am I eligible for private health insurance in Germany?
To qualify for private health insurance, you must fall into one of the following categories:Employees earning above the annual income threshold(€73,800 in 2025)Self-employed and freelancers , including digital nomads and contractorsCivil servants and Beamte , who benefit from additional subsidiesStudents , during a limited period at the beginning of their studies
Take the Eligibility Test What’s the difference between public and private health insurance?
There are many important differences – from how premiums are calculated to the level of medical service, waiting times, and how family members are insured.
How much does private health insurance cost in Germany?
Premiums in private insurance are not income-dependent . Instead, they are calculated based on:Your age at the time of entryYour health status and medical historyThe coverage level you selectOptional deductibles or co-paymentsAdd-ons like daily sickness allowance or premium relief in retirement€250 to€400/month • More comprehensive coverage may cost between €450 to €800/month We calculate your individual premium and help you balance benefits and affordability.
Can I switch back to public insurance later?
Switching back from private to public health insurance is possible only in limited cases , such as:after age 55 , it’s very difficult or even impossible to return to public insurance. We’ll explain your long-term options before you make a decision.
What happens with my insurance when I leave Germany?
When you leave Germany permanently, you can cancel your private health insurance by:proof of deregistration from your local residence (Abmeldung)evidence of new coverage abroad (e.g., from another national insurer)
Are my family members covered too?
Unlike public insurance, private insurance does not automatically cover your dependents . Each family member (e.g. spouse, children) needs a separate contract. This means:Children can usually be added at a reduced rate(often €100–150/month)Non-workingspouses need their own policy unless they have public insuranceDual-income families may mix systems (e.g. one parent GKV, one PKV)
Which private insurers are best for expats?
Not all private health insurers are equally well-suited for international clients. Service quality • English-speaking support • Digitalclaims process (e.g. via app) • Financial stability and long-term pricing • Experience with expat clients We only work with insurers that meet high standards in all areas – and we help you avoid hidden costs or unclear clauses.
Can I get support and documents in English?
Yes – many insurers now offer:
What’s the application process like? Will I need a health check?
To apply for private insurance, you must complete a detailed health questionnaire . Some providers will request additional doctor’s reports or recent test results. Important notes:No physicalhealth check is required – just a written medical historypremium surcharges or exclusions • Once accepted, your rate is fixed and independent of future health issues We’ll help you complete the forms, review for accuracy, and manage any follow-up questions from the insurer.
