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Entry into Germany: What you need to know about health insurance!
Entry into Germany requires proof of valid health insurance. But which insurance is right for you? Whether statutory or private, short-term or long-term – we provide clarity. For personal advice and support in choosing the right health insurance, please contact us.
The topic short and concise
Entry into Germany requires proof of valid health insurance. But which insurance is right for you? Whether statutory or private, short-term or long-term – we provide clarity. For personal advice and support in choosing the right health insurance, please contact us.
Entry into Germany requires proof of valid health insurance. But which insurance is right for you? Whether statutory or private, short-term or long-term – we provide clarity. For personal advice and support in choosing the right health insurance, please contact us.
Entry into Germany requires proof of valid health insurance. But which insurance is right for you? Whether statutory or private, short-term or long-term – we provide clarity. For personal advice and support in choosing the right health insurance, please contact us.
Planning a trip to Germany? Discover everything about the mandatory health insurance, explore different options, and learn how to avoid pitfalls. Find out more now!
Planning a move to Germany? It's important to address the topic of health insurance promptly. A valid health insurance policy is not only legally required but also essential for a stress-free start in Germany. At GoMovin, we understand that organizing a move and handling all the formalities can be complex. That's why we offer comprehensive support to make your transition as smooth as possible. Our aim is to provide you with the necessary information and resources, enabling you to make the right decision for your healthcare in Germany.
This article provides you with a comprehensive guide to the health insurance requirement when entering Germany. We clarify the various options, explain the requirements for visas and residence permits, and help you find the right health insurance for your needs. Whether you are coming to Germany to study, work, or for family reunification – we have the answers to your questions. Get informed now to avoid pitfalls and optimally prepare for your start in Germany.
At GoMovin, we stand by you with our expertise to simplify your relocation process. Learn more about our relocation assistance and how we can support you in organizing your insurance.
GKV vs. PKV: The right system for your needs
Germany has a dual healthcare system consisting of the statutory health insurance (GKV) and the private health insurance (PKV). The choice between these two systems depends on your purpose of stay, your income, and your personal needs. It is important to understand the differences to make the right decision for your entry into Germany.
Statutory Health Insurance (GKV)
The GKV is a community-based insurance where the contributions are income-dependent. A major advantage of the GKV is the family insurance, which allows non-working spouses and children to be insured without additional cost. The GKV covers a wide range of medical services, including medical, dental, hospital, and maternity care. The exact services may vary depending on the provider, but basic care is legally defined. Special regulations apply to EU citizens over 55 years of age regarding proof of previous statutory health insurance, as Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) explains.
Private Health Insurance (PKV)
The PKV, on the other hand, is based on risk-based contributions, which depend on age, gender, and health condition. Unlike the GKV, there is no automatic family insurance in the PKV, and policyholders usually have to initially bear the costs of treatment themselves and have them reimbursed later. An advantage of the PKV can be the extended range of services and the option to tailor the insurance coverage individually. It is important to note that switching back from the PKV to the GKV can often be difficult, especially as one gets older, as Make-it-in-Germany emphasizes.
When deciding between GKV and PKV, you should consider your individual needs and circumstances. If you have any questions, we are happy to offer advice. For further information on health insurance in Germany, you can also visit the Federal Ministry of Health's website.
Health Insurance Requirement: Requirements for Different Visa Types
The mandatory health insurance is a key aspect when entering Germany. The exact insurance requirements vary depending on the purpose of your stay and the type of visa. It's crucial to gather detailed information beforehand to ensure you meet all necessary requirements. We at GoMovin are here to help you stay informed and find the right insurance solution for your situation.
Visas for Long-term Stays (National Visa)
For a national visa, required for long-term stays such as studies, work, or family reunification, strict health insurance requirements apply. You must provide proof of health insurance that complies with the German Social Code Book V (SGB V). This means that the insurance must offer benefits equivalent to those of statutory health insurance (§ 11 Sections 1-3 SGB V). The insurance must be valid indefinitely and must not contain cancellation clauses based on age, employment status, or change of purpose of stay. Travel insurances or the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are generally insufficient, as the fact sheet of the German Embassy Jakarta illustrates.
Specific Purposes of Stay
Family Reunification
In the case of family reunification, proof of unconditional inclusion in family insurance upon entry is required. This means that the insurer must confirm that you are co-insured in the family insurance from the time of your entry into Germany.
Employment
For the commencement of employment in Germany, you need insurance coverage starting from the beginning of your employment contract. This must be proven by an unconditional commitment from a health insurer. The German Embassy Brazil points out that the validity period of the visa only begins when proof of adequate health insurance in Germany is provided.
Studies
For studies in Germany, similar requirements apply as for employment. It is often sufficient to initially take out travel health insurance for the first few months and then switch to statutory or private health insurance. Fintiba recommends that applicants for a German visa must prove a travel health insurance for at least the first three months of their stay.
It is advisable to take care of health insurance early to avoid delays in visa issuance. We at GoMovin are happy to assist you in choosing the right insurance and completing all formalities. For further information on visa regulations, visit the Make it in Germany initiative pages.
Incoming and travel insurance: Optimal coverage for foreigners
For foreigners entering Germany, there are special insurance options tailored to their needs. Incoming insurance policies and travel insurance for foreign guests offer flexible and comprehensive coverage for various purposes of stay. At GoMovin, we help you make the right choice and find suitable insurance protection.
Incoming Insurance Policies
Incoming insurance policies are special insurances that do not have cancellation conditions for long-term stays. They are particularly suitable when direct enrolment in GKV is not possible. These insurances provide comprehensive protection in the event of illness and are often a prerequisite for obtaining a visa or residence permit. The German Embassy in Brazil, for instance, accepts so-called incoming insurance policies when immediate enrolment in German health insurance is not possible.
Travel Insurance for Foreign Guests
There are various providers of travel insurance for foreign guests offering different services and tariffs. Some examples include:
HanseMerkur: Offers incoming insurance for stays of up to 5 years in Germany, Switzerland, or other EU countries. These insurances cover potential medical costs and can be combined with accident and liability insurance, as explained by HanseMerkur.
HMRV: Offers travel insurance for foreign guests with options for liability, accident, and baggage insurance. An advantage of this insurance is the possibility of partial premium reimbursement in case of early departure, as highlighted by HMRV.
Important Aspects
When choosing incoming or travel insurance, you should consider the following aspects:
Scope of coverage: Does the insurance cover all necessary treatments?
Validity period: Is the insurance valid for the entire planned stay?
Waiting periods: Are there waiting periods before the insurance takes full effect?
Deductible: Is there a deductible in the event of illness?
At GoMovin, we are happy to advise you on selecting the right insurance and help you find the best possible coverage for your stay in Germany. More information on travel insurance for foreign guests can also be found on comparison portals like CHECK24.
Health insurance upon return: Smooth transition into the German system
When returning to Germany, it's important to promptly address your health insurance. The regulations for returnees can be complex, especially if you were previously insured abroad. At GoMovin, we assist you in making the transition to the German healthcare system as smooth as possible.
Statutory Health Insurance for Returnees
If you were previously a member of a German statutory health insurance (GKV), you generally have the option to return to the same provider, particularly if you weren't privately insured in the meantime. EU citizens who were insured under statutory schemes in another EU country can also join a German GKV. Krankenkassen.de informs that EU citizens with prior statutory insurance in another EU country can easily join a German GKV.
Private Health Insurance for Returnees
If you were previously privately insured, you might have the opportunity to return to your former private health insurance (PKV). Private insurers are also required to offer a basic tariff, which is similar in coverage to the GKV. This basic tariff might be an option if you're not eligible for a GKV. It's advisable to consult with your former PKV to assess the best options for your return.
Special Cases
For individuals who have never been insured in Germany, the type of health insurance depends on employment status. If you were previously subject to social security contributions abroad, you generally qualify for a GKV. However, self-employed individuals must take out private insurance. EU pensioners usually remain insured in the country where their pension is paid. Krankenkassen.de notes that determining the correct insurance type can be complex, especially for returnees from non-EU countries. In such cases, it's advisable to seek advice from a GKV.
At GoMovin, we help you find the right health insurance for your return to Germany. Contact us for personalized advice and support. Further information on health insurance for returnees can also be found on the pages of the German Pension Insurance Union.
Check insurance conditions: How to avoid pitfalls
Choosing the right health insurance is an important step when entering Germany. To ensure that you are optimally covered, you should carefully review the insurance conditions and be aware of potential pitfalls. We at GoMovin provide you with important tips on what to look out for when checking the insurance conditions.
What should you pay attention to?
Scope of coverage: Does the insurance cover all necessary treatments? Ensure that the insurance covers the costs for medical treatments, medications, hospital stays, and possibly even dental treatments.
Validity period: Is the insurance valid for the entire planned stay? Make sure that the insurance is valid throughout your entire stay in Germany and can be extended if necessary.
Cancellation conditions: Are there clauses that limit the insurance coverage? Pay attention to cancellation conditions that might restrict coverage, for example, if your purpose of stay or employment status changes.
Waiting periods: Are there any waiting periods before the insurance fully takes effect? Some insurances have waiting periods for certain services, such as dental treatments.
Excess: Is there an excess in the event of illness? Find out the amount of the excess and whether it applies per treatment case or per year.
Advice and Support
When choosing the right health insurance, it is advisable to seek advice and support. There are various places you can turn to for help with your decision:
Health insurance companies: Offer comprehensive advice on their tariffs. The staff of the health insurance companies can provide you with detailed information about the services, contributions, and conditions of the respective tariffs.
Consumer centres: Offer independent advice on insurance matters. The consumer centres are independent advisory bodies that can help you choose the right insurance and protect you from dubious offers.
German embassies and consulates: Can provide information on entry regulations. The German embassies and consulates abroad can provide you with information on entry regulations and the requirements for health insurance.
We at GoMovin are also happy to provide you with advice and help you find the right health insurance for your stay in Germany. Further information and comparison options can be found on independent comparison portals such as Stiftung Warentest.
Special Regulations: EU Citizens and Assignments in Focus
When entering Germany, there are some specific regulations regarding health insurance that are particularly relevant for EU citizens and temporary assignments. At GoMovin, we would like to explain these special cases to provide you with a comprehensive overview.
EU Citizens Over 55
There are specific rules concerning proof of previous statutory health insurance for EU citizens over 55. These individuals must demonstrate that they have been covered by statutory health insurance in their previous country of residence for at least one day in the last five years. This proof is considered equivalent to German statutory health insurance. The Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) explains this regulation in detail.
Temporary Assignment to Germany
For a temporary assignment to Germany, the social security law of the home country may continue to apply. This is based on EU Regulation EC 883/2004 and the German Social Code (SGB IV). In this case, you may not need German health insurance and can remain covered through your home country. However, it is crucial to clarify this in advance with your employer and health insurance provider. More information on the regulations for assignments can be found on the pages of the German Connection Point for Health Insurance Abroad (DVKA).
Turkish Citizens
Turkish citizens have specific residency rights in relation to employment. It is advisable to inform yourself about the specific regulations for Turkish citizens, as these may differ from general provisions.
We at GoMovin are happy to assist you in clarifying your individual situation and help you find the appropriate health insurance solution. Further information on the special regulations for EU citizens and assignments can also be found on the pages of the European Commission.
Securing Successful Entry: Health Insurance as the Key
Adequate health insurance is essential for entry into Germany. The choice between statutory and private health insurance depends on various factors, including the purpose of your stay, income, and personal preferences. It is important to address this topic early and carefully review the terms of insurance. We at GoMovin are here to support you with our expertise, making the relocation process easier and helping you choose the right health insurance.
Digitalisation and increasing internationalisation will further change the requirements for health insurance. It is crucial to always be informed about the latest developments and offers. We at GoMovin stay up to date and continuously adapt our services to the evolving needs of our customers. Our aim is to provide you with a comprehensive and reliable service, allowing you to focus on what really matters: your successful start in Germany.
Are you planning to enter Germany and need support organising your health insurance? Contact us today for personalised advice. We help you find the right insurance and complete all formalities. Visit our relocation assistance page for more information about our services.
Secure your worry-free start in Germany with the right health insurance. We look forward to assisting you with your move! Do you have any questions? Then get in contact with us!
Further useful links
The Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) explains the special regulations for EU citizens over the age of 55 regarding proof of prior statutory health insurance.
Make-it-in-Germany highlights the difficulties of switching from private to statutory health insurance, particularly as one gets older.
Bundesgesundheitsministerium offers comprehensive information on health insurance in Germany.
The German Embassy in Jakarta clarifies that travel insurance or the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is generally not sufficient for long-term stays.
The German Embassy in Brazil points out that the validity period of the visa only begins from the moment proof of adequate health insurance in Germany is provided and accepts incoming insurance if immediate enrollment in German health insurance is not possible.
Fintiba recommends that applicants for a German visa must provide proof of travel health insurance for at least the first three months of their stay.
The German Pension Insurance Association offers information on health insurance for returnees.
The German Liaison Office for Health Insurance Abroad (DVKA) provides information on regulations for postings.
The European Commission offers information on special regulations for EU citizens and postings.
FAQ
What type of health insurance do I need to enter Germany?
To enter Germany, you need health insurance that meets German standards. This can be either statutory health insurance (GKV) or private health insurance (PKV). For certain types of visas, travel health insurance is sufficient for the first few months.
What happens if I enter without health insurance?
Entering without valid health insurance can lead to problems with visa issuance or residence permits. You also risk incurring high costs if you need medical treatment.
Is travel health insurance sufficient for a long-term stay?
For a long-term stay, e.g., for studying or working, travel health insurance is generally not sufficient. You need health insurance that complies with the German Social Code V (SGB V).
Can I, as an EU citizen, simply get statutory insurance in Germany?
EU citizens generally have the right to obtain statutory insurance in Germany, provided they work or reside here. There are special provisions for EU citizens over 55 years old regarding proof of previous statutory health insurance.
What is an incoming insurance and when is it advisable?
A incoming insurance is a special insurance for foreigners coming to Germany who do not yet have regular health insurance. It is particularly advisable if direct admission to GKV is not possible.
What should I consider when choosing between GKV and PKV?
The choice between GKV and PKV depends on your purpose of stay, your income, and your personal needs. GKV is income-based, whereas PKV is risk-based. Switching from PKV back to GKV is often difficult.
What role does health insurance play in family reunification?
For family reunification, proof of unconditional admission to family insurance upon entry is required. The insurer must confirm that you are co-insured in the family insurance from the time you enter Germany.
Where can I find more information and support in choosing the right health insurance?
Further information can be found on the websites of the Federal Ministry of Health, the German embassies and consulates, as well as at independent advisory centres like consumer advice centres. We at GoMovin are also happy to assist you.
