How to Get Health Insurance in Germany – Complete 2025 Expat Guide

If you’re moving to Germany – or already living here – getting health insurance isn’t optional. It’s mandatory. But with two systems (public and private), a lot of paperwork, and rules that seem to change based on your job or income, it can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry – this guide explains exactly how to get covered in Germany.

Is Health Insurance Really Mandatory in Germany?

Yes. Health insurance is legally required for everyone living in Germany – regardless of nationality, employment status, or duration of stay.

You need valid coverage to:

• Register your address ("Anmeldung")
• Get a visa or residence permit
• Start a job or university program
• Receive medical treatment

There are two main options:

1. Public health insurance (GKV – Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung)
2. Private health insurance (PKV – Private Krankenversicherung)

Let’s break down how to get insured depending on your situation.

Option 1: Public Health Insurance (GKV)

Who qualifies?

• Employees earning less than €73,800/year (2025 threshold)
• Most students
• Unemployed persons (with support from Jobcenter/Agentur für Arbeit)
• Pensioners receiving a German statutory pension

How to apply:

1. Choose a public provider (e.g., TK, AOK, Barmer)
2. Fill out the application online or in person
3. Submit ID, proof of address, and employment or student documents
4. Receive confirmation (“Versicherungsbescheinigung”) for your employer, university, or visa office

What does it cost?

• ~14.6% + ~1.6% additional rate = ~16.2% of your gross salary
• Automatically deducted from your paycheck
• Covers dependents (non-working spouse and children) for free

Option 2: Private Health Insurance (PKV)

Who is eligible?

• Employees earning over €73,800/year (2025 JAEG)
• Self-employed and freelancers
• Civil servants (Beamte)
• Students (within the first 3 months of university)
• Non-EU expats without access to GKV

Why choose private?

• Often cheaper for young, healthy individuals
• Shorter waiting times, better hospital options
• Fully customizable plans and add-ons (e.g., dental, alternative medicine)

How to apply:

1. Confirm eligibility (use our free eligibility check)
2. Compare offers from multiple insurers – not just price, but also services
3. Submit health questionnaire (mandatory)
4. Choose deductible, coverage level, optional add-ons
5. Receive your policy and insurance certificate

💡 Important: Your employer will pay up to €471.32/month for health and up to €99.23 for care insurance in 2025. The rest is on you.

What Documents Do You Need?

Whether you apply for GKV or PKV, you typically need:

• Passport and visa (if applicable)
• German address registration ("Anmeldung")
• Work contract or university enrollment letter
• Bank details for monthly payments

Switching from GKV to PKV (or vice versa)

You can switch to PKV if:

• You become self-employed
• You get a job with income over €73,800/year
• You’re a student and choose private insurance at the beginning of your studies

Switching back to GKV is more difficult once you're in PKV, especially if you're over 55 or self-employed long-term. That’s why it’s crucial to get personal advice before making the switch.

What About Travel Insurance or Incoming Plans?

If you're in Germany for less than 90 days (tourists, short-term business), you may be fine with travel insurance.
If you're a language student, au pair, or in between visas, an incoming insurance plan may work temporarily – but these are not long-term solutions and don’t qualify you for full access to the health system.

We can help you navigate these temporary options and switch to long-term coverage when needed.

Summary: How to Get Health Insurance in Germany