LVM Krankenversicherung Health Insurance: Your Guide to Health Insurance in Germany


What Expats Need to Know About Health Insurance in Germany



As part of a service package for the international community, The Eye Newspapers (owners of The Germany Eye and The Munich Eye) have negotiated preferential deals for foreigners seeking health insurance in Germany. Whether you are looking for health insurance, personal liability insurance, or another form of coverage, we have partnered with one of the most responsive insurers, LVM Krankenversicherung, which understands the unique needs of expatriates. This includes excellent coverage, friendly English-language customer service, and expertise in simplifying the process of securing the best health insurance for you and your family.
Health insurance is legally required in Germany. Whether you choose private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV) or public health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV), all residents must be insured through an accredited German insurer.
The Eye Newspapers works closely with these insurers to streamline the application and service process. We always value customer feedback to continuously improve our offerings.

How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

Germany offers two primary types of health insurance, provided by over 100 companies (referred to as Krankenkassen). Health insurance is compulsory, and you must choose one of these two options (though combining both is possible in some cases).

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance is available to all residents who earn below €69,300 annually (as of 2024). If your income is below this threshold, GKV is your mandatory choice. Public health insurance covers a wide range of medical treatments and services, with family members (e.g., spouse, children) typically covered at no additional cost. The contribution rate is 14.6% of your gross annual salary, with the cost equally shared between you and your employer. Note that not all doctors and hospitals are covered by the GKV system, so it’s important to confirm coverage beforehand.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance is available for individuals who earn above €69,300 annually or for self-employed individuals. PKV offers higher-quality services, including faster access to specialists, more extensive treatments, and private or semi-private hospital rooms. Here are some advantages of private health insurance:
  • Access to more comprehensive medication and treatments
  • Private or semi-private hospital rooms with fewer patients
  • Access to specialists and doctors who may only accept PKV-insured patients
  • Minimal cost difference compared to public insurance for some individuals
However, there are some potential drawbacks:
  • Premiums may increase with age and health conditions
  • You must handle claims directly with the insurer, often requiring forms in German (though The Eye Newspapers partners with English-friendly insurers)
  • Dependents are not automatically covered under PKV
  • Doctors may prescribe more treatments or medications, knowing that PKV covers the costs
PKV tends to be more suitable for singles, higher earners, or those seeking more privacy and faster medical treatment. Additionally, PKV often provides more extensive international coverage compared to GKV.
Both public and private health insurance plans cover vacation treatment abroad, but PKV generally offers a broader list of countries where you can receive care. Make sure to confirm the coverage for your travel destination.

What Happens Next?

On the right side of this page, you'll find links to articles covering the key differences between public and private health insurance in Germany. These resources will help you understand how the system works. Once you're ready to make a decision, consider the following questions to help you choose the right health insurance for your needs:
  • Do I have dependents who need coverage?
  • Am I comfortable with sharing a hospital room (PKV offers more privacy depending on the plan)?
  • Do I need English-language support for medical services?
  • Am I planning to start a family soon or bring a non-employed partner to Germany?
  • Do I earn enough to qualify for Private Health Insurance?
Answering these questions will guide you in making the best choice between public and private health insurance. Now that you're familiar with the different types of health insurance, fill out the form below to receive more information or have an agent contact you. This service is run in collaboration with The Eye Newspapers to ensure that you receive the best support in English. Our partners have made the process simple and efficient for readers like you.



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