History of Envivas Krankenversicherung: A Trusted Provider for Expats

Envivas Krankenversicherung, founded in 2007, is a relatively young but rapidly growing private health insurer in Germany. Part of the Münchener Verein Group, which has been serving customers for over 100 years, Envivas is committed to providing high-quality health insurance services with a focus on meeting the specific needs of expatriates and international residents in Germany. Over the years, Envivas has built a reputation for offering tailored insurance plans that provide an excellent balance between affordability and comprehensive coverage. The company stands out for its dedication to customer service, offering English-speaking support and simplifying the complexities of the German health insurance system for foreign residents. Envivas Krankenversicherung is particularly known for its flexibility in providing private health insurance plans for individuals and families, as well as offering a wide range of services that include inpatient and outpatient care, dental coverage, and more. Their customer-first approach and reputation for accessibility have made them a top choice for expatriates seeking private health insurance in Germany. As a newer player in the market, Envivas is constantly innovating and adapting its offerings, making it easier for expats to understand their insurance options and make the best decision for their needs. Whether you're coming to Germany for work, study, or family reasons, Envivas ensures that you receive the support you need for both your healthcare and insurance needs in a foreign country.

How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

Germany's health insurance system consists of two main types, both regulated by over 100 providers (known as Krankenkassen). Health insurance is mandatory, and you must choose one of the two options, although it is also possible (though uncommon) to combine both types of insurance.

The first option is known as:
Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV).

The second option, available based on your income, is called:
Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV).

So, what are the key differences?

The most significant distinction is that you can only acquire Private Health Insurance if you earn above 69,300 Euro per year (as of 2024). If you earn less than this, you are required to opt for Public Health Insurance. The second major difference is that PKV generally offers a higher standard of service, with benefits including:

• Broader access to medication and treatments
• Reduced number of patients per hospital room, ensuring more privacy
• Some doctors only accepting PKV-insured patients
• In many cases, the costs of PKV are similar or only slightly higher than those of Public Health Insurance

However, there are some potential drawbacks to choosing PKV:

• The cost of insurance can increase as you age and your health needs grow
• You may need to manage claims yourself, often requiring German-language paperwork (although Envivas Krankenversicherung offers English-language assistance for expats—click here for more information)
• Dependents (e.g., children or non-working spouses) are typically not covered unless added to the policy
• Some doctors may prescribe additional medications, knowing that your insurance will cover the cost

Public Health Insurance is usually a better option if you have dependents (such as a spouse who does not work) and/or children, as they can be covered under your plan. The cost of Public Health Insurance is generally 14.6% of your annual gross salary, shared equally between you and your employer. Notably, if you opt for Private Health Insurance with Envivas, your employer will also contribute to your premiums.