Liga KV Katholischer Priester Health Insurance: Your Guide to German Private Health Insurance


What Expats Need to Know About Health Insurance in Germany



As part of a service package for the international community, The Eye Newspapers (publishers of The Germany Eye and The Munich Eye) have secured preferential deals for foreigners seeking health insurance in Germany. Whether you need health insurance, personal liability insurance, or another type of coverage, we have partnered with one of the most responsive insurers who specialize in understanding the unique needs of expatriates. This includes excellent coverage, English-language customer service, and expertise in making the process of obtaining the best health insurance simple and efficient for you, and if needed, your family.
Health insurance is a legal requirement in Germany. Whether you choose private health insurance or public health insurance, all residents are legally obligated to insure themselves with an accredited German insurer.
The Eye Newspapers collaborates closely with these insurers to make the application and service process as user-friendly as possible. We always welcome customer feedback to ensure continuous improvement.

How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

In Germany, there are two primary types of health insurance, provided by over 100 companies (called Krankenkassen in German). As health insurance is compulsory, you must choose one of these two options (or in rare cases, combine both). Here’s a breakdown of the two systems:

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance is available to all residents earning under €73,800 per year (as of 2025). If you earn less than this threshold, GKV is your only option. It typically covers a wide range of treatments and services. Public Health Insurance also covers family members (spouse and children) at no extra cost. The contribution rate is 14.6% of your gross annual salary, which is split between you and your employer. However, not all hospitals and doctors accept GKV, so it’s essential to verify coverage beforehand.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance is available to those who earn above €73,800 annually or for self-employed individuals. PKV offers a higher standard of care, including more extensive treatments, private or semi-private hospital rooms, and quicker access to specialists. Some key benefits include:
  • More extensive treatment options and medications
  • Private or fewer shared hospital rooms
  • Faster access to medical specialists
  • Tailored plans and flexible coverage options
However, there are some potential drawbacks:
  • Premiums may increase with age or declining health
  • You must claim reimbursements directly from the insurer, often requiring forms in German (although The Eye Newspapers promotes English-speaking insurers)
  • Dependents are not automatically covered
  • Some doctors might prescribe more medications knowing PKV will cover the extra costs
PKV is a better choice for higher earners, singles, or those who want a higher level of privacy and care. Additionally, PKV typically offers more comprehensive international coverage than GKV, which can be valuable for frequent travelers.
Both Public and Private Health Insurance plans offer coverage for medical treatment abroad. However, PKV provides a more extensive list of countries where you can receive treatment, so it’s essential to check if your destination country is covered.

What Happens Next?

On the right-hand side of this page, you will find links to additional articles covering the details of both public and private health insurance in Germany. These resources will help you gain a deeper understanding of how the system works. Once you’ve read through the materials, consider these questions to help you decide which type of health insurance is best for you:
  • Do you have dependents who need coverage?
  • Are you okay with sharing a hospital room (PKV offers more privacy depending on the plan)?
  • Do you need English-language support for medical services?
  • Are you planning to start a family soon or bring your non-employed legal partner to Germany?
  • Do you meet the salary threshold to qualify for Private Health Insurance?
By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to decide which health insurance plan is right for you. Once you are familiar with the health insurance options available in Germany, fill out the form below to receive more detailed information or have an agent contact you. The Eye Newspapers are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the best possible service in English. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how easy our partners have made the process for our readers like you.



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