ARAG Allgemeine Versicherung: Your Partner for Private Health Insurance in Germany
What Foreigners Need to Know About German Private Health Insurance
ARAG Allgemeine Versicherung is a leading provider of private health insurance in Germany, catering specifically to the needs of expatriates and international residents. The Eye Newspapers, publishers of The Germany Eye and The Munich Eye, have partnered with ARAG to offer tailored solutions for foreigners navigating the complexities of the German healthcare system. With ARAG, you can expect outstanding coverage, expert English-speaking support, and a streamlined process for securing private health insurance (PKV) or other types of insurance in Germany.
Contact us today and let ARAG Allgemeine Versicherung provide you with the best Germany private health insurance tailored to your needs. Our trusted English-speaking team is ready to support you every step of the way.
Important: Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Every resident must be insured through either the public health insurance system (GKV) or private health insurance (PKV). Non-compliance is not an option, so understanding your choices is crucial.
Our collaboration with ARAG ensures a user-friendly application and service process. Whether you need individual coverage or family options, ARAG is here to simplify the journey and provide the most comprehensive German private health insurance solutions available.
How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?
In Germany, health insurance is compulsory and is provided through over 100 insurers, collectively known as Krankenkasse. Residents can choose between two primary types of health insurance:1. Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)
This system is open to all residents and is mandatory for those earning less than the salary threshold for private health insurance.2. Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)
PKV is available for residents earning above the annual salary threshold of €69,300 (as of 2024). It offers enhanced benefits and flexibility compared to GKV. The differences between the two systems include:- PKV often provides better medication options and access to specialist doctors.
- Private patients typically enjoy more privacy in hospitals, such as single or double rooms.
- Some doctors exclusively accept PKV-insured patients.
- PKV can sometimes be comparable in cost to GKV, depending on your circumstances.
- Premiums can increase with age or declining health.
- Policyholders must initially pay medical expenses and claim reimbursements from the insurer.
- Dependents are not automatically covered, unlike GKV.
- PKV coverage can lead to over-prescription by some doctors.
Tip: Not all hospitals or doctors are part of the GKV network, so verify coverage before seeking treatment. PKV typically offers broader international coverage for treatments abroad.
What Should You Do Next?
To learn more about health insurance options in Germany, explore our in-depth articles covering both public and private systems. Once you are ready to decide, consider the following questions to guide your choice:- Do I have dependents who need coverage?
- Am I comfortable sharing hospital facilities, or do I prefer more privacy?
- Do I require English-speaking services for healthcare?
- Am I planning to start a family or bring a non-employed partner to Germany?
- Do I meet the salary threshold for Private Health Insurance?