Mannheimer 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 exclusive deals with Mannheimer Krankenversicherung to offer health insurance options for foreigners in Germany. Whether you're looking for health insurance, personal liability insurance, or another type of coverage, we believe our partnership with one of the most responsive insurers, Mannheimer Krankenversicherung, provides expatriates with excellent service tailored to their needs. This includes comprehensive coverage, English-language customer support, and expertise in navigating the health insurance system.
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. All residents, whether citizens or expatriates, are required to have health insurance, either through public (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV) or private (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV) insurance providers.
The Eye Newspapers is collaborating closely with Mannheimer Krankenversicherung to make the process of selecting and applying for health insurance as straightforward as possible. We value customer feedback to continuously improve the service for our readers.

How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

In Germany, there are two main types of health insurance provided by more than 100 different insurance companies (known as Krankenkassen). Health insurance is compulsory, and you must choose one of the following options (it’s also possible to combine the two, but this is uncommon).

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance is open to all residents whose income falls below €69,300 per year (as of 2024). If you earn less than this amount, you must enroll in GKV. This system offers comprehensive medical care, and dependents (e.g., spouse, children) can be covered at no extra cost. The contribution rate is 14.6% of your gross income, which is shared equally between you and your employer. It’s important to note that not all doctors and hospitals are part of the GKV system, so you should verify coverage before seeking treatment.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance is available to individuals who earn more than €69,300 annually or for self-employed individuals. PKV offers higher-quality services, such as private or semi-private hospital rooms, faster access to specialists, and more comprehensive medication options. Some benefits of PKV include:
  • More extensive medication options
  • Private or semi-private hospital rooms with fewer patients
  • Access to specialists who may only accept PKV-insured patients
  • Minimal cost difference compared to public health insurance for some individuals
However, there are some downsides to PKV:
  • Premiums may increase with age and health issues
  • You need to submit claims directly to the insurer, which usually involves forms in German (though Mannheimer Krankenversicherung provides English-language support)
  • Dependents are not automatically covered under PKV
  • Some doctors may prescribe more treatments or medications, knowing that PKV will cover the costs
PKV is generally more suitable for higher earners or those who prefer privacy and faster medical treatment. Additionally, PKV offers broader international coverage compared to GKV.
Both public and private health insurance plans cover treatment abroad during vacations, but PKV typically offers a more extensive list of countries for coverage. Always check the details of international coverage before traveling.

What Happens Next?

On the right side of this page, you will find articles providing deeper insights into the workings of Germany's health insurance system, both public and private. Once you are ready, consider the following questions to help you decide which insurance option is best for you:
  • Do I have dependents who need coverage?
  • Am I comfortable with sharing a hospital room, or would I prefer the privacy offered by PKV (depending on the plan)?
  • Do I need English-language services for healthcare?
  • Am I planning to start a family soon or bring a non-employed spouse to Germany?
  • Do I earn enough to qualify for Private Health Insurance?
Answering these questions will help you make an informed decision about the type of insurance that suits your needs. Now that you understand the different types of health insurance and their requirements, fill out the form below to receive more information or have an agent contact you. This service, provided in collaboration with The Eye Newspapers, is here to support you every step of the way and ensure you receive the best service in English. You’ll be surprised at how easy Mannheimer Krankenversicherung has made the process for The Eye Newspaper readers.



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