In Germany, having health insurance is mandatory by law for everyone. People who are new to Germany always ask, what's the best health insurance for foreigners in Germany? Actually, its your situation which decides whether you must go with public insurance or if you can choose between public and private options. We'll dive into this topic by looking at the differences between private and public health insurance for expats.
Health insurances in Germany
In Germany, everyone has access to high-quality medical care through a comprehensive healthcare system. Health insurance is mandatory by law, and everyone must have either public or private health insurance.
The public health insurance system, also known as statutory health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV), covers about 90% of the population and is financed by contributions from employers and employees, as well as subsidies from the government.
The private health insurance system, also known as private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung or PKV), covers about 10% of the population and is based on individual contracts with private insurance companies. The cost and coverage of private health insurance depend on various factors, such as age, health condition, and chosen benefits.
Mandatory vs. optional health insurance in Germany
Most people in Germany do not have a choice between public and private health insurance, as they are automatically enrolled in the public system based on their income and employment status. However, some people can opt for private health insurance if they meet certain criteria, like:
Earning more than 66,600 euros per year
Self-employed or freelance
Civil servant
Student over 30 years old
Doctors
Once someone has chosen private health insurance, it is not easy to switch back to the public system, especially after the age of 55. Therefore, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of both systems before making a decision.
Compare the benefits of public and private health insurance in Germany
While both public and private health insurance have their pros and cons, we've highlighted some of the important points for a useful comparison. Your personal circumstances may require additional considerations. However, we believe the comparison below will give you enough information to make your mind.
How good is public health insurance in Germany
Public health insurance in Germany is generally considered to be very good, as it offers comprehensive and standardised medical services to everybody, regardless of their income or health status.
The public health insurance system covers various medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, medical treatments, preventive care, and rehabilitation. Patients can choose public insurance providers, including doctors, specialists, and hospitals. The public health insurance system is also heavily subsidised by the government, so that those on pensions and unemployment benefits can still access health care.
Cost of public health insurance in Germany
The cost of public health insurance in Germany depends on the income of the insured person. The contribution rate is 14.6% of the gross income.
The contribution rate is split equally between the employer and the employee, so that each pays 7.3% of the total contribution. Additionally, each public health insurance provider can charge an extra contribution of up to 1.7%, which is also shared by the employer and the employee.
Furthermore, everyone pays a compulsory nursing care contribution of 3.05% (or 3.3% if they do not have children), which is again shared by the employer and the employee.
Best public health insurance in Germany
There are many public health insurance providers in Germany, and their services vary slightly. According to personal experience and experience from other we know, the best public health insurance providers in Germany are:
How to sign up for public health insurance in Germany
Signing up for public health insurance in Germany is relatively easy, especially if you are an employee. You can choose any public health insurance provider that operates in your region, and your employer will register you with them. You will receive a health insurance card that you need to present whenever you visit a doctor or a hospital. If you are self-employed, a freelancer, a student, or unemployed, you can also sign up for public health insurance by contacting the provider of your choice and filling out an application form. You will need to provide some documents, such as your passport, visa, residence permit, income statement, and bank account details.
If you are looking to sign up for a public health insurance, you can use the expat insurance broker Feather Insurance's quick and free online service. If you're unsure which public health insurer to choose, Feather's free Health Recommendation Tool can help you figure out the best provider for your needs.
Private health insurance in Germany
Private health insurance in Germany offers some advantages over public health insurance, especially for those who have a high income, a good health condition, and a preference for more flexibility and exclusivity.
From personal experience, some of the benefits of private health insurance are:
Quicker appointments with specialists and shorter waiting times
Free choice of doctors and hospitals, including private practices and single rooms
Access to the latest medical techniques and treatments
Higher dental coverage and alternative medicine options
Customised and flexible services, depending on the chosen benefits
Possible premium refund for non-use of individual services
Private health insurance provides additional benefits and treatments beyond what is covered by public health insurance. Keep in mind that when you see a doctor, you will pay the costs upfront and then file a claim with your private health insurance company for reimbursement.
Cost of private health insurance in Germany
The cost of private health insurance in Germany varies depending on several factors, such as age, health condition, and chosen benefits. On average, it can range anywhere from 200 to 700 euros per month.
If you are employed, approximately 50% of your contributions will be covered by your employer, up to a maximum of 403.99 euros per month in 2023. If you are self-employed, you will have to cover the entire premium yourself. The cost of private health insurance can increase significantly with age and health risks, as well as with the addition of family members. Therefore, it is important to compare different private health insurance plans and providers before choosing one.
Private health insurance in Germany coverage
The coverage of private health insurance in Germany depends on the contract that you sign with the private insurance company. You can choose from various options and benefits, such as:
Basic coverage: This includes the minimum services required by law, such as inpatient and outpatient care, emergency treatment, and basic dental care.
Standard coverage: This includes the same services as the public health insurance system, such as preventive care, rehabilitation, and prescription drugs.
Premium coverage: This includes additional services that are not covered by the public health insurance system, such as higher dental coverage, alternative medicine, sick pay, and travel insurance.
Who is the best private health insurance provider in Germany?
There are many private health insurance providers in Germany, and their plans and prices vary a lot. Therefore, it is not easy to say which one is the best, as it depends on your personal needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular and reputable private health insurance providers in Germany are:
To find the best private health insurance provider in Germany for you, it is advisable to compare different plans and providers, and to consult an independent health insurance broker who can help you find the best deal. Sites like Tarifcheck can help you compare health insurances in Germany in just a couple of clicks.
Is it possible to change to private health insurance if you have public health insurance
It is possible to change to private health insurance if you have public health insurance, but only if you meet the eligibility criteria for private health insurance, such as earning more than 66,600 euros per year, being self-employed, or being a civil servant. You also need to pass a health examination and sign a contract with a private insurance company. However, changing to private health insurance is a big decision, as it is very difficult to switch back to public health insurance later, especially after the age of 55. Therefore, you should carefully weigh the pros and cons of both systems before making a change.
Which private health insurance is best in Germany?
Well, there are numerous private health insurance providers in Germany offering competitive services for similar prices. While Allianz, Munich RE, and AXA are in the market for more than 100 years combined, new generation insurance companies also stands out in the competition, especially among expats.
In personal experience, when choosing an insurance provider it is important to know whether we can communicate with them effectively. Therefore, choosing an insurance provider with English support is important for expats.
If you prefer a private health insurance with English-language services and a fully digital experience, Ottonova stands out as an option. You have the option to schedule a complimentary consultation at free of cost to see if their services suit your requirement.
Conclusion
Choosing the right health insurance plan is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Carefully evaluate your needs, compare options, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals or insurance brokers to make an informed choice that best suits your health and financial situation.
Remember, your health is your most valuable asset. By choosing the right health insurance, you can secure access to quality healthcare and protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between public and private health insurance in Germany for expats?
Public health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV) is available to employees earning below a certain income threshold and offers standard coverage. Private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung - PKV) is an option for higher earners or self-employed individuals, offering more comprehensive coverage but at a higher cost.