Application & management 100% online
Optical & dental care
Free 24/7 telemedicine services
Germany is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in Europe, offering high medical standards, modern hospitals and access to experienced healthcare professionals. However, understanding how health insurance in Germany works can be challenging for expats and foreign residents.
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany, and choosing the right cover is essential when relocating for work, study, family life or retirement.
Whether you are moving to Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt or Hamburg, international health insurance can help expats access quality healthcare, comply with visa or residency requirements and benefit from flexible medical cover both in Germany and abroad.
Many expatriates choose international health insurance in Germany because it combines comprehensive healthcare protection with international mobility and access to private medical services.
Yes. Health insurance is compulsory for everyone living in Germany, including expatriates, international employees, students and freelancers.
Germany operates a universal healthcare system, but the type of insurance available depends on factors such as:
employment status,
salary level,
visa category,
duration of stay,
self-employed or employee status.
Expats without valid health insurance may face difficulties obtaining a residence permit, accessing healthcare services or completing administrative procedures.
For many foreigners, international health insurance provides greater flexibility than local German policies, especially for individuals who travel frequently or may relocate to another country later.
Germany has a dual healthcare system combining public and private health insurance.
The public healthcare system, known as statutory health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV), covers most residents through compulsory contributions. It provides access to doctors, hospitals and essential medical treatment.
Private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung or PKV) is available to certain residents, including high earners, self-employed individuals and some expatriates.
Germany’s healthcare system is recognised for:
high-quality medical care,
short waiting times compared with many countries,
excellent specialist treatment,
advanced hospitals and clinics,
wide access to healthcare professionals.
However, healthcare costs in Germany can still be high without adequate insurance, particularly for specialist consultations, hospital stays and emergency treatment.
Expats moving to Germany often compare local German insurance with international health insurance plans.
The right solution depends on your residency status, career plans and international mobility.
International health insurance is designed for expatriates and globally mobile individuals who need flexible cover across several countries.
It is particularly suitable for:
employees on international assignments,
remote workers and digital nomads,
expatriate families,
entrepreneurs,
retirees abroad.
International plans often include:
worldwide medical cover,
treatment inside and outside Germany,
private hospital access,
emergency evacuation,
continuity of cover when relocating internationally,
direct reimbursement and international assistance.
For expats who may not stay permanently in Germany, international health insurance can provide greater long-term flexibility.
Local German insurance is mainly intended for residents established in Germany long term.
Public insurance contributions are generally linked to income, while private insurance premiums depend on factors such as age and medical history.
Although German insurance offers excellent healthcare access locally, cover abroad may be more limited than international health insurance solutions.
Germany provides excellent healthcare, but navigating the local insurance system can be complex for foreigners.
Many expats choose international health insurance in Germany because it helps them:
comply with visa and residence requirements,
access private healthcare facilities,
avoid administrative complexity,
benefit from international medical networks,
remain covered during travel,
receive healthcare support in English and other languages.
International health insurance is also valued by expatriates who want continuity of cover when moving between countries or returning home temporarily.
When selecting health insurance in Germany, expats should choose cover adapted to their personal situation and immigration status.
A comprehensive international health insurance plan may include:
hospitalisation and surgery,
GP and specialist consultations,
emergency treatment,
prescription medication,
preventive healthcare,
maternity care,
dental and optical care,
mental health support,
medical evacuation and repatriation.
The level of cover required will depend on your visa category, employment status, family situation and length of stay in Germany.
Healthcare in Germany is generally less expensive than in some other countries, but medical treatment can still represent a significant cost for uninsured foreigners.
Expats without suitable insurance may face high expenses for:
private hospital treatment,
specialist appointments,
diagnostic tests,
emergency medical care,
long-term treatment.
Having comprehensive health insurance helps expatriates manage healthcare expenses while ensuring fast access to quality medical services throughout Germany.
Examples of reimbursements with MyHealth International COMFORT in relation to the cost of care in Germany in the private sector*.
*Reasonable costs in the private sector, APRIL International data 01/2026
Germany is one of the best-endowed European countries in terms of hospital facilities, with a highly developed private sector. The official directory of German hospitals provides a complete list of facilities, and it allows users to conduct searches based on various criteria.
Many community and hospital doctors work under a double role: government contracted and private practice. Accordingly, they treat different profiles of insured persons and therefore apply different rates. Waiting times for patients seen as “private patients” are often shorter.
Yes. Health insurance is compulsory for everyone living in Germany, including expatriates, students, freelancers and foreign employees.
Many expats can access Germany’s public healthcare system if they meet the eligibility requirements, particularly employees whose income falls below certain thresholds. Others may need private or international health insurance.
Public insurance in Germany is state-regulated and income-based, while private insurance depends on individual risk factors. International health insurance is designed for expatriates and offers flexible worldwide cover across multiple countries.
Yes. International health insurance is commonly used by expatriates in Germany, particularly during relocation, temporary assignments or international careers. Policies must generally meet German visa or residence permit requirements.
Healthcare in Germany can be expensive without insurance. Hospital stays, specialist treatment and emergency care may generate substantial out-of-pocket costs for uninsured residents.
The best health insurance for expats in Germany depends on employment status, salary, residency plans and international mobility. Many expatriates choose international health insurance because it combines flexibility, worldwide cover and access to private healthcare.
It only takes a few steps to join and start benefitting from your international health insurance cover!
1. Find the cover that suits your situation from a range of options
2. Request a quote online and sign it electronically
3. Download the Easy Claim app and benefit from a wide range of features to help manage your plan with ease, wherever you are!
4. Get a call back or chat with one of our dedicated advisers at any time.
For expats planning to travel or move to Thailand, understanding the healthcare system—the quality of care available, coverage options, and the process for accessing care—is crucial...
For those unfamiliar with Indonesia’s healthcare structure, knowing where to go in a medical emergency can mean the difference between timely treatment and stressful delays. This article outlines the key differences between public and private hospitals in Bali, including notable facilities, quality of care, accessibility, and language support.
Moving abroad, whether for work, study or long-term travel, is an exciting step. However, one critical aspect is often overlooked: health insurance. Not having adequate cover abroad can expose you to serious financial, medical and legal risks. Healthcare systems vary significantly from one country to another, and without proper protection, even a minor issue can quickly escalate into a major problem.
It’s decided, you’re setting on an adventure abroad! As your move to a new country begins to take shape, have you given any thought to your health insurance? Choosing the right health coverage is pivotal to starting your life abroad with peace of mind, ensuring you’re protected in case life throws you a curveball. To help you navigate this important choice, we’ve gathered invaluable insights from experienced expats.
