DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung Health Insurance in Germany


Everything You Need to Know About Health Insurance in Germany for Expats



At The Eye Newspapers (owners of The Germany Eye and The Munich Eye), we have negotiated exclusive deals for foreigners seeking comprehensive coverage through top-rated health insurers in Germany. Our partnership with DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung ensures that expats like you can access premium German private health insurance plans, alongside English-speaking customer service and expert support to guide you through the insurance process. We focus on making the transition to the German health system as smooth as possible for you and your family.
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. All residents, whether foreigners or locals, must have health insurance from an accredited German provider, either public (GKV) or private (PKV).
The Eye Newspapers collaborates with DKV to provide tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of the expatriate community in Germany. We ensure the process of applying for health insurance is clear and user-friendly, with customer feedback always welcome to improve our service.

History of DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung: A Trusted Name in Health Insurance

DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung, a subsidiary of the international insurance giant ERGO Group, has been providing health insurance coverage in Germany for over 90 years. Founded in 1927, DKV has established itself as one of Germany’s leading private health insurers. The company’s long history reflects its commitment to providing reliable and high-quality insurance services to both domestic customers and expatriates. DKV’s extensive range of services and flexible health plans have made it a popular choice among those seeking the best healthcare coverage in Germany. Throughout its evolution, DKV has focused on innovation, adapting to changes in healthcare needs and technology. Today, it offers comprehensive private health insurance plans that cater to individuals, families, and expats. Known for its commitment to customer satisfaction, DKV has become a trusted name for expats seeking reliable healthcare coverage, offering tailored plans that include a wide range of treatments, medication options, and hospital accommodations. DKV’s reputation for high service quality is backed by its longstanding experience and expertise in the private health insurance sector. Expats and locals alike benefit from its modern approach to health insurance, where customer care and global accessibility remain at the forefront of its mission.

Understanding How Health Insurance Works in Germany

In Germany, there are two main health insurance options provided by over 100 health insurance companies (called Krankenkassen). Both options are mandatory, though they differ significantly in their coverage and eligibility requirements. Expats in Germany must choose between:

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV) — available to most residents, and
Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV) — available based on specific conditions such as income. The main difference between these two types of insurance is that to qualify for private health insurance, you need to earn over 69,300 EUR annually (as of 2024). If your income is lower, you will be required to enroll in public health insurance. PKV, however, is known for offering superior service quality and additional benefits. Some of the advantages of DKV’s private health insurance plans include:
  • Access to more extensive medication options and treatments
  • Fewer patients per hospital room, ensuring a more comfortable hospital stay
  • Some private doctors exclusively accept patients with private insurance
  • In many cases, private health insurance costs are competitive with public health insurance
However, there are a few downsides to consider when opting for PKV:
  • The cost can increase with age, as premiums rise over time based on health status
  • You will need to manage claims directly with the insurer, typically requiring forms in German (The Eye Newspapers partners with English-friendly insurers like DKV for ease)
  • Dependents may not be automatically covered, requiring separate policies
  • Doctors may prescribe additional treatments or medications knowing that your insurance will cover the costs
Public Health Insurance (GKV) is often a better choice for families with dependents or non-working spouses, as children and spouses can be covered at no additional cost. The cost is usually 14.6% of your gross salary, split equally between you and your employer. If you opt for Private Health Insurance through DKV, your employer will still contribute to the costs.
Please note that not all healthcare providers accept GKV insurance. It's essential to verify with hospitals and doctors before receiving treatment. While both GKV and PKV cover medical treatment abroad, PKV offers a broader range of countries where you can receive care.

How to Choose the Right Health Insurance Plan in Germany

Deciding between public and private health insurance can be complicated. To make the right choice, consider the following questions:
  • Do I have dependents, or am I planning to start a family soon?
  • Do I prefer more privacy in hospital rooms (PKV offers better options here)?
  • Do I need English-speaking customer service or medical support (PKV offers more English-speaking healthcare providers)?
  • Do I earn above the threshold for private health insurance?
Once you’ve considered these questions, you’ll be in a better position to choose the best health insurance option for your needs. Our partners at DKV offer personalized advice to help guide your decision.
Now that you have a clearer understanding of German health insurance, it’s time to get started. Fill out the form below for more detailed information or to speak directly with an expert. As part of our collaboration with DKV and The Eye Newspapers, we are committed to providing you with seamless support in English, making the process of securing the best health insurance for your situation simple and stress-free. Trust DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung, one of Germany's leading private health insurance providers, to provide you with comprehensive coverage tailored to your needs.



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