How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

In Germany, health insurance is compulsory, and you must choose from two types of insurance, offered by over 100 providers (known as Krankenkassen). While it is possible to combine the two, these are the main options:

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance (GKV) is available to all residents and is required if your annual income is below €69,300 (as of 2024). GKV provides comprehensive coverage, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and medications. Additionally, if you are married or have children, they are automatically covered under your policy at no extra cost. The cost is 14.6% of your gross salary, with the employer and employee sharing this expense equally.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance (PKV) is an option for those earning over €69,300 annually. PKV generally offers more extensive service, such as:

• More extensive medication options
• Fewer patients per room for greater privacy during hospital stays
• Access to doctors who only accept private patients
• In some cases, costs are similar to public insurance

However, there are some potential disadvantages to PKV:

• Premiums may increase with age or as health issues arise
• You need to submit claims directly to the insurer, which often requires completing forms in German (although ST. Martinus Priesterverein offers English-language assistance)
• Dependents are not automatically covered
• Some doctors may prescribe additional medications as they know your insurance will cover the costs

Public Health Insurance is often the better choice for those who are married, have children, or a non-working partner, as they will be covered under your policy at no extra cost. The cost is based on 14.6% of your annual gross income, shared between you and your employer.