Work Visas in Germany
How to apply for residency permits and work visas in Germany, including the EU Blue Card and General Work Permit, and the paperwork you need.
Health Insurance in Germany
Learn about health insurance in Germany for foreigners, including GKV, private insurance, international plans, visa requirements, and the best options for expats.
Global Health Plans for Foreigners Living in Germany
Finding the right health insurance in Germany is essential for meeting visa requirements, accessing quality medical care, and protecting yourself from unexpected healthcare costs. Expats can choose between statutory German insurance, private German insurance, and international health insurance designed for global mobility. This guide explains each type of coverage, who qualifies, and how to choose a plan that fits your needs.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget
Is Health Insurance Mandatory in Germany?
Health insurance is mandatory for most people living in Germany. Foreigners may need proof of valid coverage when applying for a residence permit, starting employment, studying, or relocating to the country.
The type of health insurance you need depends on your circumstances, including:
- Your visa or residence status
- Employment situation
- Income level
- Length of stay
- Whether you need coverage only in Germany or internationally
Germany offers several insurance routes, including statutory insurance, private German insurance, and international health insurance.
For an overview of how Germany’s healthcare system works, including doctors, hospitals, emergency services, and treatment access, read our guide to the German healthcare system.
Health Insurance Options in Germany
Foreigners moving to Germany usually choose between three main types of coverage. The best option depends on your personal circumstances, including your income, employment situation, family needs, and whether you require coverage outside Germany.
Statutory Health Insurance (GKV)
Statutory health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV) is the standard option for many employees in Germany. Eligible residents join a government-approved Krankenkasse, with contributions generally linked to income.
GKV is commonly used by:
- Employees who qualify for public insurance
- Students who meet eligibility requirements
- Certain self-employed individuals
Private Health Insurance (PKV)
Private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung) is an option for people who qualify and prefer a more personalized approach to insurance.
Private plans allow customers to choose coverage levels based on their needs and budget. Premiums are generally based on individual factors rather than income alone.
Private insurance may appeal to:
- Higher-income employees
- Self-employed professionals
- Civil servants
- Some international residents
Before choosing PKV, expats should consider their long-term plans, family situation, and whether they expect to remain in Germany permanently.
While GKV provides comprehensive coverage for many residents, some expats choose international health insurance for greater flexibility, worldwide coverage, and access to international support.
International Health Insurance
International health insurance can be a flexible option for expats, remote workers, and globally mobile individuals who need coverage beyond Germany’s local healthcare system.
Unlike GKV or PKV insurance plans, international health plans are designed to provide protection across multiple countries, making them suitable for people who live, work, or travel internationally.
Depending on the provider and plan, benefits may include:
- Worldwide medical coverage – Access healthcare in Germany, your home country, and other destinations around the world.
- International networks of doctors and hospitals – Receive treatment through a broad network of healthcare providers, including English-speaking medical professionals in many locations.
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation – Financial protection for urgent medical transport or returning home for treatment when medically necessary.
- Coverage while traveling outside Germany – Maintain protection during international trips without needing separate travel medical insurance for every journey.
- Flexible options for individuals and families – Choose plans designed for expats, families, digital nomads, and remote workers with changing international needs.
- Multilingual support and claims assistance – Get help navigating medical care, documentation, and reimbursement processes in multiple languages.
International health insurance may be particularly useful for people who expect to move between countries, require temporary coverage before joining Germany’s healthcare system, or want broader benefits than a local insurance plan provides.
For expats who travel frequently, work remotely, or plan to live internationally, a global health plan can provide continuous coverage while living in Germany and abroad.
If international health insurance is the right option for your situation, comparing providers carefully is important. Coverage limits, exclusions, provider networks, deductibles, and customer support can vary significantly between plans. The best choice depends on your nationality, age, lifestyle, travel needs, and the level of protection you require.
Health Insurance
The Best International Health Insurance for Foreigners Living in Germany
Choosing the right international health insurance provider can help ensure you have access to quality medical care, reliable claims support, and coverage that fits your situation as an expat in Germany.
The Best Health Plan for All Nationalities
Cigna Global is a leading international health insurer with excellent service and benefits. Cigna Global offers a modular plan design, allowing you to select and customize different modules to tailor the plan to your specific needs and budget.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
The Best Health Plan for U.S. Citizens
The BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier plan is ideal for U.S. citizens living in Germany. It offers similar benefits and services to Cigna.
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier is offered in association with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of America and features an excellent BCBS network of doctors and hospitals, as well as access to the highest-quality doctors worldwide.
Applying for Health Insurance in Germany
Once you know which type of health insurance you need, the next step is arranging coverage and obtaining proof of insurance.
The application process depends on your situation:
Employees: Most employees who qualify for statutory insurance (GKV) usually register through their employer and choose a Krankenkasse.
Freelancers, self-employed workers, students, and expats: These groups may need to apply directly for private German insurance or an international health insurance plan.
Common documents may include:
- Passport or ID
- Visa or residence permit details
- Proof of address in Germany
- Employment or income information
- Previous insurance details
Before purchasing a plan, make sure it meets any visa or residence requirements that apply to your situation.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget