How Health Insurance Works in Germany

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

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance (GKV) is available to everyone residing in Germany, with a 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 register with 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 extra cost. The premium is calculated at 14.6% of your gross income and is split equally between you and your employer.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance is available for those earning above €69,300 per year or for self-employed individuals. PKV offers higher-quality services and more extensive coverage. Some benefits of PKV include:

• Access to more extensive medication and treatment options
• Private rooms and fewer patients per hospital ward
• Access to specialists who may only accept PKV patients
• Cost may be similar to Public Health Insurance for many individuals

However, there are some potential downsides to PKV:

• Premiums may rise as you age or experience health issues
• You will need to handle claims directly with the insurer, which may require completing forms in German (although Neurnberger Krankenversicherung offers English-language support)
• Dependents are not automatically covered under your plan
• Doctors may prescribe more medication than you need, knowing it will be covered by your insurance

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. Employers contribute 50% of the premium for both Public and Private Health Insurance.