UKV Union Krankenversicherung Health Insurance


What Foreigners Need to Know About Health Insurance in Germany



As part of our package of services for the international community, The Eye Newspapers (owners of The Germany Eye and The Munich Eye) have negotiated preferential deals with UKV Union Krankenversicherung to help foreigners secure health insurance in Germany. Whether you're looking for health insurance, personal liability coverage, or other forms of insurance, we are proud to partner with an insurer that understands the unique needs of expatriates. UKV offers excellent coverage, customer service in English, and a seamless process to help you acquire the best health insurance for you and your family.
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Whether you opt for private or public health insurance, all residents are required by law to have insurance from an accredited German provider.
The Eye Newspapers works closely with UKV Union Krankenversicherung to simplify the application and service process, ensuring a smooth experience for you. We always value your feedback to continue improving our services.

How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

In Germany, there are two main types of health insurance provided by over 100 companies (known as Krankenkassen). Health insurance is compulsory, meaning you must choose one of these two options, although combining them is uncommon. Here’s an overview:

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance (GKV) is available to all residents, and if your annual income is below €69,300 (as of 2024), you must take this option. GKV provides broad coverage for medical care, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and medications. If you are married or have children, they will be covered under your policy at no extra cost. The cost is calculated at 14.6% of your gross salary, which is shared equally between you and your employer.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance (PKV) is available for those earning above €69,300 annually. PKV generally offers more extensive services, such as:
  • More extensive medication options
  • More privacy in hospital rooms (fewer patients in each room)
  • Some doctors only accept PKV-insured new patients
  • Often, the cost is similar to Public Health Insurance
However, there are some potential disadvantages to PKV:
  • Premiums can increase with age or as your health declines
  • You need to file claims directly with the insurer, often requiring forms in German (although UKV Union Krankenversicherung offers English-language support)
  • Dependents are not automatically covered
  • Some doctors may overprescribe medications, knowing that your insurance covers the costs
Public Health Insurance is typically a better option for those who are married with a non-working partner and/or have children, as they will be covered under your policy at no extra cost. The premium is 14.6% of your gross salary, shared between you and your employer.
Not all doctors and hospitals are covered under the GKV system, so it’s important to check before accepting treatment. Both GKV and PKV cover treatment abroad, but PKV offers a broader range of countries for medical coverage.

What Happens Next?

On the right side of this page, you’ll find links to articles that provide more detailed information on both public and private health insurance in Germany. Once you’ve read through them, ask yourself the following questions to help determine which insurance option suits you best:
  • Do I have dependents?
  • Am I comfortable sharing a hospital room (PKV provides more privacy in this regard, depending on your plan)?
  • Do I need English-language services (PKV may offer more options for finding an English-speaking doctor)?
  • Am I planning to start a family soon, or bringing my non-working legal partner to Germany?
  • Do I earn over the salary threshold to qualify for Private Health Insurance?
By answering these questions, you can better determine which insurance type will best meet your needs. Once you are familiar with the different health insurance options, simply fill out the form below to request more information or to have an agent contact you. As this service is provided in collaboration with The Eye Newspapers, we are here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that you receive the best service, in English. You’ll be surprised at how easy our partners have made the process for readers of The Eye Newspapers like you.



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