Hallesche Krankenversicherung Health Insurance: The Best Option for Expats in Germany


What Foreigners Need to Know About Health Insurance in Germany



As part of a dedicated initiative for the international community, The Eye Newspapers have negotiated exclusive offers for foreigners looking to secure health insurance in Germany. Whether it’s health insurance, personal liability insurance, or other coverage options, we’ve partnered with some of the most responsive insurers who understand the unique needs of expatriates. This includes top-notch coverage, English-language customer support, and expertise in navigating the process of acquiring the best German private health insurance for you and your family. Hallesche Krankenversicherung, founded in 1904, is one of Germany's most respected and established health insurance providers. With over 100 years of experience in the industry, it has earned a reputation for offering high-quality services and comprehensive health insurance plans. Hallesche is known for its customer-centric approach, providing not only excellent coverage but also ensuring that clients have access to support in multiple languages, including English. Over the years, Hallesche has grown to become one of the leading companies in Germany's private health insurance sector, particularly for expatriates seeking reliable and flexible health coverage in Germany. Its extensive experience and stability make it an ideal choice for foreigners who require both high-quality healthcare and international coverage.
It is a legal requirement in Germany to have health insurance. All residents must secure either private health insurance in Germany or enroll in the public system through an accredited German insurer.
The Eye Newspapers works closely with these insurers to simplify the application process, ensuring a seamless experience for our readers. Your feedback is always welcomed to help us enhance this service further.

How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

Germany offers two types of health insurance coverage, both essential for residents. There are over 100 companies that provide these services, known as Krankenkassen in German. Health insurance is mandatory, and all individuals must choose one of these options (it’s also possible, but rare, to combine both types).

The first option is Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV), which is available to all residents. The second option is Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV), which is only available if you meet certain income requirements.

So, what’s the difference between public and private health insurance in Germany?

Eligibility: You can only apply for Private Health Insurance if your annual income exceeds €69,300 (as of 2024). If you earn less, you must opt for Public Health Insurance. This system is tailored to suit your income level.

Service Quality: Private Health Insurance generally provides a higher quality of service. Some of the benefits of being privately insured with a company like Hallesche Krankenversicherung include:
  • Access to a broader range of medications and treatments
  • More privacy in hospital rooms, with fewer patients per room
  • Some doctors may only accept PKV-insured patients
  • Costs for German private health insurance often not much higher than the public system
However, there are some drawbacks to choosing Private Health Insurance:
  • Premiums can increase as you age, especially if health conditions develop
  • Claims must be submitted directly to the insurer, often requiring paperwork in German (but Hallesche Krankenversicherung offers English-language support)
  • Dependents are not automatically covered (you need to add them separately)
  • Some doctors may prescribe additional medication to take advantage of insurance coverage
Public Health Insurance is typically more advantageous for those with dependents, such as a non-working spouse or children, as they are automatically covered under the policy. Contributions to the public system are set at 14.6% of your gross income, shared equally between you and your employer. Note that Hallesche Krankenversicherung will also cover half of your premiums if you opt for private insurance.
Not all healthcare providers are included in the GKV system, so it’s important to verify coverage with hospitals or doctors. Both systems cover treatment abroad, but PKV offers a broader network of countries where you can receive treatment.

What Happens Next?

To the right of this page, you’ll find links to articles that dive deeper into the workings of German private health insurance and the public system. After reading these resources, ask yourself the following questions to help determine which option is best for you:
  • Do I have dependents who need to be covered?
  • Am I comfortable sharing a hospital room with others, or do I prefer the privacy offered by PKV?
  • Do I need English-language customer service or support from English-speaking doctors?
  • Am I planning to start a family or bring a non-employed legal partner to Germany?
  • Do I earn over the threshold for Private Health Insurance eligibility?
By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about which type of health insurance is right for your needs.

Now that you’re familiar with the different aspects of health insurance in Germany, you can fill out the form below to receive more information or request a call from an agent. Our partnership with Hallesche Krankenversicherung ensures you get the best possible service in English, with a streamlined and straightforward process. The Eye Newspapers are here to support you every step of the way, so you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how easy the process is for our readers.



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