Württembergische 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 Württembergische Krankenversicherung to help foreigners secure health insurance in Germany. Whether you're seeking health insurance, personal liability insurance, or other coverage, we are proud to partner with Württembergische, an insurer that specializes in understanding the unique needs of expatriates. They offer excellent coverage, English-language customer service, and expertise to help you navigate the process of obtaining the best health insurance for yourself and your family.
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Whether you opt for private or public health insurance, all residents must insure themselves through an accredited German insurance company.
The Eye Newspapers collaborates closely with Württembergische Krankenversicherung to ensure that the application and service process is as simple and user-friendly as possible. We value your feedback and aim to continuously improve the process for expatriates.

How Does Health Insurance Work in Germany?

Germany offers two main types of health insurance, provided by over 100 different companies (referred to as Krankenkasse). Health insurance is compulsory, and you are required to select one of these options. While combining both types is rare, it is possible. Let’s explore the two options:

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV)

Public Health Insurance (GKV) is available to all residents. If your annual income is below €69,300 (as of 2024), you must opt for this type of insurance. GKV covers all essential healthcare needs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and medication. If you're married or have children, they will automatically be covered under your insurance at no additional cost. The contribution is calculated at 14.6% of your gross salary, split equally between you and your employer.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV)

Private Health Insurance (PKV) is available to those who earn more than €69,300 annually. PKV generally provides more extensive coverage and benefits, such as:
  • More medication options
  • More privacy in hospital rooms (fewer patients per room)
  • Some doctors may only accept PKV-insured patients
  • Costs are often comparable to Public Health Insurance
However, there are a few drawbacks to PKV:
  • Premiums can increase with age or declining health
  • You must claim reimbursements directly from the insurer, which may involve filling out forms in German (although Württembergische offers English-language services)
  • Dependents are not automatically covered
  • Some doctors may prescribe more medications than you may want, knowing your insurance will cover the cost
Public Health Insurance is generally more suitable for individuals with non-working spouses or children, as they will be automatically covered under your insurance at no extra cost. The premium is shared equally between you and your employer.
Not all doctors or hospitals are covered under the GKV system, so it’s important to verify that your chosen providers are included. Both GKV and PKV cover medical treatment abroad, but PKV typically offers a broader list of countries where treatment is covered.

What Happens Next?

To the right of this page, you’ll find links to articles that cover different aspects of German health insurance, both public and private. Once you’ve reviewed these, ask yourself the following questions to help decide which insurance option is right for you:
  • Do I have dependents?
  • Am I comfortable sharing a hospital room with other patients (PKV provides more privacy, depending on your contract)?
  • Do I need access to English-language services (PKV may provide more options for finding an English-speaking doctor)?
  • Am I planning to start a family soon, or bring a non-working partner to Germany?
  • Do I earn above the salary threshold for Private Health Insurance?
These questions can help you decide which type of insurance is best suited to your situation. After reviewing your options, fill out the form below to receive more information or to have an agent contact you. As this service is run in collaboration with The Eye Newspapers, we are here to support you at every step, ensuring that you receive the best service in English. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how easy our partners have made the process for The Eye Newspaper readers like you.



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