How Health Insurance Works in Germany

In Germany, health insurance is mandatory, and you must choose between two main types, offered by over 100 different health insurance companies (called Krankenkassen). The two main types of insurance are:

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance (GKV) is available to anyone living in Germany, with the primary eligibility requirement being an income of less than €69,300 per year (as of 2024). If your income is below this threshold, you must enroll in GKV. Public health insurance covers a wide range of medical treatments, and dependents, such as children and non-working spouses, can be included under the same policy at no additional charge. The premium is based on 14.6% of your gross income and is typically split between you and your employer.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance is available for those earning above the €69,300 income threshold or self-employed individuals. PKV provides higher quality services and a greater selection of care options. The benefits of choosing PKV include:

• More extensive treatment options and medications
• Private rooms and fewer patients per hospital ward
• Access to top specialists who may only accept PKV patients
• Cost is often similar to Public Health Insurance for many individuals

However, there are drawbacks to PKV:

• Premiums may rise with age or health issues
• You must handle claims directly with the insurer, often requiring forms in German (though Muenchener Verein offers English-language support)
• Dependents are not automatically covered, unlike in GKV
• Doctors may prescribe additional treatments, knowing that PKV will cover them

Public Health Insurance (GKV) is generally a better option for families, particularly those with non-working partners or children, as they can be covered under your policy. Additionally, your employer will pay half of the GKV premium, and the same applies if you opt for Private Health Insurance.