Mecklenburgische Versicherungsgruppe Health Insurance: Essential Guide for Expats in Germany


What Foreigners Need to Know About Health Insurance in Germany



As part of our commitment to serving the international community, The Eye Newspapers (owners of The Germany Eye and The Munich Eye) have partnered with Mecklenburgische Versicherungsgruppe to offer exclusive health insurance deals for foreigners living in Germany. Whether you need health insurance, personal liability coverage, or other forms of insurance, we've chosen a responsive insurer that truly understands the needs of expatriates. Mecklenburgische Versicherungsgruppe provides exceptional coverage, expert English-language customer service, and the guidance you need to secure the best health insurance for yourself and your family.
Health insurance is a legal requirement in Germany. Whether you choose private health insurance or public health insurance, all residents are obligated to insure themselves through an accredited German insurance provider.
We are working closely with Mecklenburgische Versicherungsgruppe to ensure the application and service process is as easy and user-friendly as possible. We also encourage customer feedback to improve our services.

How Health Insurance Works in Germany

In Germany, there are two main types of health insurance provided by over 100 different insurance companies, known as Krankenkassen. Health insurance is mandatory, and you must choose one of these options (though it’s also possible, but less common, to combine the two).

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance is available to all residents who earn less than €69,300 per year (as of 2024). If your income is below this threshold, you are required to enroll in GKV. This system provides comprehensive medical care, and dependents (such as spouses or children) can be covered at no additional cost. The contribution rate is 14.6% of your gross income, split equally between you and your employer. However, not all doctors and hospitals are covered under the GKV system, so it’s important to confirm coverage before seeking treatment.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance is an option for individuals who earn over €69,300 annually or are self-employed. PKV offers more premium services, such as private hospital rooms, faster access to specialists, and broader medication options. Some benefits of PKV include:
  • Broader medication options and advanced treatments
  • More privacy with fewer people in hospital rooms
  • Access to specialists who may only accept PKV patients
  • Minimal cost difference from Public Health Insurance for some individuals
However, PKV comes with certain drawbacks:
  • Premiums may increase with age and health changes
  • Claims must be submitted directly to the insurer, often requiring German-language forms (though Mecklenburgische Versicherungsgruppe provides English-language support)
  • Dependents are not automatically covered under PKV
  • Some doctors may prescribe additional treatments, knowing that PKV covers the extra costs
PKV is generally better suited for high earners or individuals who prefer more privacy and specialized care. It also offers broader international coverage compared to GKV.
Both public and private insurance plans cover treatment abroad during vacations, but PKV offers a broader list of countries for treatment. Make sure to verify coverage for your destination before traveling.

What Should You Do Next?

To the right of this page, you'll find links to articles that delve deeper into Germany’s health insurance system, covering both public and private options. Once you are ready, consider these questions to help determine which insurance type is best for you:
  • Do I have dependents who need to be covered?
  • Am I okay with sharing a hospital room, or would I prefer the privacy provided by PKV (depending on the contract)?
  • 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 on which type of insurance best fits your needs. Once you are familiar with the various aspects of German health insurance, fill out the form below to receive more information or to have an agent contact you. This service, offered in collaboration with The Eye Newspapers, is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the best service in English. With the help of Mecklenburgische Versicherungsgruppe, the process is easy, straightforward, and tailored to meet the needs of The Eye Newspaper readers like yourself.



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