How can I as a foreigner in Germany take out health insurance?
June 26, 2024 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Adele Gerdes
Dear attorney specializing in foreigner's law,
My name is Albrecht Köhler and I am a foreigner who recently moved to Germany. I have heard that there is a mandatory health insurance requirement in Germany and I am therefore concerned as I have not yet taken out health insurance.
My current situation is as follows: I moved to Germany a few weeks ago to work here. As a foreigner, I am not automatically enrolled in the German health insurance system, so I am now faced with the challenge of obtaining health insurance for myself.
The current situation is that I do not yet have health insurance and therefore have no coverage in case of any health problems. This is causing me great worry as I do not know how expensive treatment without insurance could be and if I can afford it.
My question to you is: How can I, as a foreigner in Germany, obtain health insurance? Are there special insurance offers for foreigners or do I need to enroll in the regular German health insurance system? What documents are required for obtaining health insurance and what costs can I expect?
I would greatly appreciate your help with this important question, as my health is of utmost importance to me.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Albrecht Köhler
Dear Mr. Köhler,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the health insurance requirement in Germany for foreigners. It is understandable that you are concerned, as health insurance is an important component of health security. I am happy to assist you in clarifying your questions and provide you with information and tips.
In Germany, there is a general health insurance requirement for all individuals who reside or work here. This means that as a foreigner, you are also required to take out health insurance. There are two main types of health insurance in Germany: statutory health insurance (GKV) and private health insurance (PKV).
Statutory health insurance is the standard insurance in Germany and provides comprehensive coverage in case of illness. As an employee, you have the option to enroll with a statutory health insurance fund. You will typically need your work permit or residence permit, your ID card or passport, and your tax identification number. The costs for statutory health insurance depend on your income.
If you are self-employed or have a higher income, you can also opt for private insurance. In this case, you should contact private health insurance providers to get quotes and learn about the different plans available.
It is important that you promptly arrange for health insurance to ensure coverage in case of health issues. The costs of treatment without insurance can be very high and should be avoided at all costs.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions or need assistance in obtaining health insurance, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Adele Gerdes
Attorney specializing in foreigner law
