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Emigrating and Health Insurance: How to Ensure Optimal Coverage!
The decision to emigrate is exciting! But before you pack your bags, you should definitely look into the topic of health insurance. Which insurance is right for you? What applies within and outside the EU? And what do you need to consider upon returning? Find the answers and protect yourself. Do you need individual advice? Get in contact with us.
The topic short and concise
The decision to emigrate is exciting! But before you pack your bags, you should definitely look into the topic of health insurance. Which insurance is right for you? What applies within and outside the EU? And what do you need to consider upon returning? Find the answers and protect yourself. Do you need individual advice? Get in contact with us.
The decision to emigrate is exciting! But before you pack your bags, you should definitely look into the topic of health insurance. Which insurance is right for you? What applies within and outside the EU? And what do you need to consider upon returning? Find the answers and protect yourself. Do you need individual advice? Get in contact with us.
The decision to emigrate is exciting! But before you pack your bags, you should definitely look into the topic of health insurance. Which insurance is right for you? What applies within and outside the EU? And what do you need to consider upon returning? Find the answers and protect yourself. Do you need individual advice? Get in contact with us.
Planning your emigration? Discover everything you need to know about health insurance abroad: From the right policy to potential pitfalls. Find out now!
Overview of Health Insurance for Emigrants
The decision to emigrate is a significant step that requires careful planning. A central aspect of this is health insurance. The situation is complex and depends on various factors: Is your destination country inside or outside the EU? Are you planning a temporary or permanent stay? Are you employed, retired, or self-employed? These questions are crucial in finding the right health insurance solution. Choosing the appropriate cover is essential to ensuring you are optimally cared for abroad and to avoid unexpected costs. It is important to explore the different options early on and weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. We at GoMovin are happy to help you maintain an overview and find the best solution for your individual situation.
Aim of this Article
This article is intended to serve as a comprehensive guide to clarify the complex issues surrounding health insurance when emigrating. We aim to provide you with the necessary information to enable you to make an informed decision. We address the various options, explain their advantages and disadvantages, and provide you with tips on potential pitfalls. Our goal is to enable you to start your new life abroad worry-free. We highlight the differences between statutory and private health insurance, the specifics for retirees, and the various international health insurance offerings. This way, you are well-prepared and can approach your emigration with ease. Also, check out our comprehensive guides on emigrating as a German.
GKV: How to ensure coverage when abroad in the EU
GKV within the EU/EWR/Switzerland
If you're emigrating within the EU, EWR, or Switzerland and wish to remain insured with the German statutory health insurance (GKV), it is important to apply for the so-called Portable Document S1. This document serves as proof of your health insurance abroad and grants you access to local healthcare services. Inform your health insurance provider about your move timely to obtain the S1 form. With this form, you can then register with the foreign health insurance provider. The cost of your treatments is usually settled between the German and the foreign health insurance providers. However, it is advisable to inform yourself in advance about the specific conditions and services in the respective country, as these may differ from German standards. More information can be found on the Consumer Centre page.
GKV outside the EU
If your destination is outside the EU, your insurance coverage with the German GKV will generally expire. In this case, you need a private international health insurance to ensure adequate coverage abroad. There are various providers offering special tariffs for emigrants. When choosing insurance, make sure it covers a comprehensive range of services, including both outpatient and inpatient treatments, medications, and possibly even repatriation to Germany. Carefully compare the different offers to find the best solution for your individual needs. Early planning is particularly important here, as taking out international health insurance can take some time. Also, inform yourself about our insurance services for emigrants.
Special case: Posting of employees
If you are posted abroad by your German employer, § 17 SGB V usually applies. According to this, the employer initially bears the cost of your medical care abroad. These costs can then be reimbursed by your German health insurance. However, it is important to get in touch with your health insurance provider beforehand to clarify the exact conditions. In some cases, it may be sensible to additionally take out a private international health insurance to cover potential gaps. Also clarify if your family, should they accompany you, is covered under this regulation. The principle of territoriality regulation must be respected in this context.
PKV abroad: Stay flexible with the right policy
Private Health Insurance within the EU/EEA
If you are privately insured and move within the EU or the EEA, your coverage generally remains in place. However, you should check with your insurer in advance to see if you need a so-called "Certificate of Entitlement". This certificate may be required in some countries to prove your insurance coverage. Also, pay attention to the specific terms and conditions of your private health insurance, as they may vary depending on the plan. It is advisable to research the medical care available in your destination country in advance and, if necessary, take out supplementary insurance to cover potential gaps in care. The European Consumer Centre provides further information on this.
Private Health Insurance outside the EU
If you move outside the EU, you should carefully examine the individual terms and conditions of your private health insurance (PKV). Many plans have a limited geographical and temporal scope. Therefore, it is important to choose private health insurance that meets your needs abroad. Look for comprehensive coverage that includes outpatient and inpatient treatments, medications, and possibly even repatriation to Germany. Compare the different offers carefully to find the best solution for your individual situation. A long-term international health insurance can be a sensible option here.
Suspensive Insurance
A suspensive insurance may be of interest if you plan to return to Germany in the future. This insurance allows you to maintain your membership in private health insurance without having to claim benefits during your stay abroad. You only pay a monthly fee (around 70 euros) but benefit from immediate full coverage upon your return, even if you have developed pre-existing conditions in the meantime. Whether a suspensive insurance is worthwhile for you depends on your individual circumstances and plans. Seek advice from your insurer to make the best decision. Our relocation assistance can help you plan your return.
Health insurance for pensioners: How to stay covered abroad
Pensioners within the EU
For pensioners who wish to spend their retirement within the EU, there are special regulations regarding health insurance. If you receive a German pension, you are generally entitled to the Form E-121 or S1. This form allows you to receive the same healthcare in the host country as the citizens living there. The costs are covered by your German health insurance. It's important to apply for the form from your health insurer in a timely manner and register in the host country. Note that the benefits and conditions of healthcare in the respective country may differ from German standards, so it’s advisable to research thoroughly in advance. The Krankenkassen.de provides detailed information on this topic.
Pensioners outside the EU
If you wish to live as a pensioner outside the EU, you generally need private international health insurance. German health insurance usually does not cover expenses outside the EU. When choosing insurance, ensure comprehensive coverage that includes both outpatient and inpatient treatments, medications, and possibly a return to Germany. Consider your individual needs and risks, such as pre-existing conditions or planned surgeries. Compare the various offers carefully to find the best solution for your situation. Our information on retiring to Portugal might also be helpful.
Special features for civil servants with entitlement to benefits
Civil servants who retire abroad and continue to have entitlement to benefits should note that the reimbursement of medical expenses generally follows German tariffs. This means you may have to make additional payments if treatment costs abroad exceed those in Germany. It is therefore recommended to take out a supplementary insurance to close this gap in coverage. Obtain precise information from your benefits office on the conditions and services abroad. The Residential Abroad page offers additional information for pensioners.
International Health Insurance: Find the right provider
Long-term International Health Insurance
For an extended stay abroad or permanent emigration, it is advisable to take out a long-term international health insurance policy. There are various providers on the market, such as HanseMerkur and April International. Carefully compare the different offers to find the best solution for your individual needs. Pay attention to the scope of benefits, contract terms, and costs. A long-term international health insurance policy from HanseMerkur can, for example, provide protection for up to 5 years.
Scope of Benefits
The scope of an international health insurance policy should be as comprehensive as possible. Ensure that both outpatient and inpatient treatments are covered. Dental care should also be part of the benefits, as this can often be very expensive abroad. An important aspect is the repatriation to Germany in the event of a serious illness or accident. Some insurance policies also offer COVID-19 coverage, which is particularly important in the current situation. Compare the different offers carefully to ensure that all your needs are covered.
Optional Additional Benefits
In addition to the basic benefits, many international health insurance policies also offer optional additional benefits. These include, for example, luggage insurance, liability insurance, accident insurance, and emergency insurance. Whether you require these additional benefits depends on your individual circumstances and risks. If you travel a lot or engage in hazardous sports, accident insurance might be worthwhile. Liability insurance protects you against financial damages you cause to others. Weigh the different options carefully to make the best decision for your individual situation. Helsana also provides information on international health insurance.
Returning to Germany: How to manage health insurance
Return to the Statutory Health Insurance (GKV)
If you return to Germany after your stay abroad, you are generally subject to mandatory insurance. This means that you must again have health insurance. If you were already a member of a statutory health insurance (GKV) before your stay abroad, you can usually rejoin this health insurance without any problem. However, it is important that you contact your health insurance in good time and provide proof of your return. In some cases, it may be necessary to present certain documents. Krankenkassen.de provides detailed information on this.
Return to Private Health Insurance (PKV)
If you were privately insured (PKV) before your stay abroad, you generally have the option to return to your old PKV. However, in some cases, it may be difficult to obtain the same conditions as before your stay abroad. If, for example, you have developed pre-existing conditions in the meantime, the insurance company may impose a risk surcharge. An alternative is the so-called "basic tariff". This tariff offers a similar range of benefits as the GKV, but is usually more expensive. However, the contribution is limited to the maximum GKV contribution. An advantage of the basic tariff is that the insurance cannot reject you due to pre-existing conditions. Find out from your PKV about the different options and conditions.
Special Case: No Prior Insurance in Germany
If you have never been insured in Germany before your stay abroad, your employment situation is crucial for choosing health insurance. If you work as an employee, you are usually compulsorily insured under the GKV. As a self-employed person, you have the freedom to choose between GKV and PKV. It is important to be informed about the various options and their advantages and disadvantages in advance. Seek advice from an insurance expert to make the best decision for your individual situation. Our information on health insurance when emigrating to Greece could also be helpful.
Checklist for Expats: How to Avoid Mistakes with Health Insurance
Cancellation of German Health Insurance
Before you emigrate, you should cancel your German health insurance in good time. Pay attention to the notice periods of your insurance policy. As a rule, the notice period is one month to the end of the month. Inform your insurer in writing about your emigration and, if necessary, provide proof of your new residence abroad. This way, you can avoid unnecessary costs and misunderstandings. April International also offers information on cancelling German health insurance.
Taking out Suitable Foreign Health Insurance
Taking out suitable foreign health insurance is essential for a worry-free stay abroad. Consider your individual needs and risks. Look for comprehensive coverage that includes outpatient and inpatient treatments, medication, and, if necessary, repatriation to Germany. Compare the various offers carefully to find the best solution for your individual situation. A long-term foreign health insurance with HanseMerkur can be a sensible option.
Gather Information and Seek Advice
The issue of health insurance when emigrating is complex and can raise many questions. Therefore, it is advisable to gather comprehensive information and seek advice. Take advantage of the services offered by consumer centres, health insurance companies, and insurance brokers to get an overview and find the best solution for your individual situation. Do not hesitate to ask questions and clear up any uncertainties. Good preparation is the key to a successful stay abroad.
Conclude a Returnee Anwartschaftsversicherung
If you plan to return to Germany later, taking out a returnee Anwartschaftsversicherung can be beneficial. This insurance allows you to maintain your membership in private health insurance without having to claim benefits during your stay abroad. This way, you secure insurance coverage upon your return. April International also provides information on an Anwartschaftsversicherung.
Clarifying Health Insurance Situation in the Destination Country
Before you emigrate, inform yourself about the statutory regulations and private options for health insurance in your destination country. In some countries, mandatory insurance is required, while in others you have the freedom to choose between different providers. Clarify which services and conditions apply and what costs are involved. This way, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure you are optimally covered abroad.
Avoid these mistakes with health insurance abroad
Incorrect Assumptions About Insurance Coverage
A common mistake is the assumption that German health insurance is universally valid worldwide. However, this is not the case in most instances. While there is a certain level of coverage within the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, there are also limitations here. Outside these regions, coverage is generally not provided. Therefore, be sure to inform yourself thoroughly about the coverage scope of your insurance beforehand and, if necessary, take out additional international health insurance. The Consumer Advice Centre offers further information on this subject.
Inadequate Coverage Scope
Another mistake is choosing international health insurance with inadequate coverage. Ensure that all important areas are covered, such as outpatient and inpatient treatments, medication, dental care, and repatriation. Also consider your individual needs and risks, such as pre-existing conditions or planned surgeries. Carefully compare different offers to find the best solution for your personal situation. A long-term international health insurance policy from HanseMerkur could be a sensible option here.
Failure to Meet Cancellation Deadlines
If you do not cancel your German health insurance in due time, unnecessary costs may arise. Therefore, pay attention to the cancellation deadlines of your insurance and inform your provider in writing about your emigration. If necessary, attach proof of your new residence abroad. This will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that your insurance is terminated in a timely manner. April International also offers information on cancelling German health insurance.
Further useful links
The Verbraucherzentrale provides information about what to consider regarding health insurance for long-term stays abroad.
The European Consumer Centre provides information on relocating within the EU and related insurance issues.
Krankenkassen.de offers detailed information on benefits during stays abroad.
Wohnsitz Ausland provides additional information on health insurance abroad, especially for retirees.
HanseMerkur offers long-term health insurances abroad with up to 5 years of coverage.
Helsana provides information on international health insurances, particularly for retirees and expatriates.
Krankenkassen.de offers detailed information on returning to health insurance after a stay abroad.
FAQ
Which health insurance do I need as an expatriate?
This depends on your destination country and your status. Within the EU, the German statutory health insurance (GKV) can often be utilised with the Portable Document S1. Outside the EU, you will generally require private international health insurance.
What is the Portable Document S1 and how do I obtain it?
The Portable Document S1 serves as proof of your health insurance coverage within the EU. You can apply for it from your German statutory health insurer (GKV) once you have reported your move abroad within the EU.
What happens to my German health insurance if I emigrate outside the EU?
Generally, your coverage under the German statutory health insurance (GKV) ceases when you emigrate outside the EU. You will then need private international health insurance.
Do I need a different health insurance as a pensioner compared to an employee?
Yes, special regulations often apply for pensioners. If you receive a German pension and live within the EU, you are usually entitled to the Form E-121 or S1. Outside the EU, you will require private international health insurance.
What is Anwartschaftsversicherung and when is it useful?
Anwartschaftsversicherung allows you to maintain your membership in the private health insurance (PKV) without claiming benefits. It is useful if you plan to return to Germany later.
What should I consider when choosing international health insurance?
Look for comprehensive coverage (outpatient and inpatient treatments, medication, repatriation), the contract terms and the costs. Compare various offers to find the best solution for your needs.
What happens if I return to Germany?
Upon returning to Germany, insurance obligation applies. If you were previously statutorily insured, you can generally return there. If you were privately insured, you can return to your old PKV or choose the basic tariff.
What is the basic tariff in the PKV?
The basic tariff in the private health insurance (PKV) offers a range of benefits similar to the statutory health insurance (GKV) and is particularly important for individuals who cannot obtain regular PKV rates due to pre-existing conditions.
