Health insurance in Germany: mandatory, public or private

What do you need?

In Germany you need health insurance cover. Which rules apply to you depends on whether you work, study, do vocational training or are in another situation.

You do not have to decide yet

You do not have to pick a health insurance fund right now. What matters is that you clarify how you will be insured in good time before you enter Germany or before work, studies or training start.

What should you have ready?

Exactly which documents are needed depends on your situation and on the health insurance fund.

personal data
details about work, training or studies
information about your previous health insurance
if applicable, documents from your previous insurance

What happens next?

Once your insurance status is clarified, your health insurance fund sends you the information about your membership. With statutory insurance you receive an electronic health card for doctor visits.

Choose or change your health insurance fund

You can choose your statutory health insurance fund yourself. Contributions, benefits and service differ. This is voluntary and does not change your task status.

Terms on this page

Tap a word. The terms stay in German so you recognise them in letters and forms.

This is orientation, not legal advice. Please check the details at the official source.

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