Choosing Your Health Insurance Plan
A clear, 6-step process to get insured in Germany — whether you are joining GKV, applying for PKV, or transitioning from incoming insurance.
Estimated Timeline
Same Day \u2013 8 Weeks
Steps Required
6 Steps
Arriving in Germany — Get Covered Immediately
If you are new to Germany, your first priority is short-term coverage. Incoming or travel insurance covers you for the first weeks or months while you sort out long-term insurance. Some employers arrange GKV enrollment before you arrive.
Tips:
- Arrange incoming insurance before your flight if possible
- Check if your employer will enroll you in GKV automatically
- EU citizens: your EHIC provides temporary coverage but is not a long-term solution
Joining GKV (Public Insurance)
Most employed expats are enrolled in GKV automatically. You choose a Krankenkasse (public insurer) — there are about 100 options, all offering the same core coverage. Differences are in supplementary rates (Zusatzbeitrag) and bonus programs.
Tips:
- Compare Krankenkassen by supplementary rate — it ranges from 0.9% to 2.5%
- You can switch Krankenkassen with one month notice if you find a cheaper option
- Ask about English-language support — TK, Barmer, and AOK are popular with expats
Applying for PKV (Private Insurance)
If you qualify for PKV (income above JAEG for employees, or any income for freelancers), you apply to a private insurer. This involves choosing a tariff, completing a medical questionnaire, and receiving a personalized offer.
Tips:
- Be completely honest on the medical questionnaire — omissions can void your policy
- Compare at least 3-5 insurers with help from a licensed broker
- Choose your deductible carefully — higher deductibles mean lower premiums
Switching Between GKV and PKV
Moving from GKV to PKV requires meeting the JAEG threshold (employees) or being self-employed. Moving from PKV back to GKV is more restricted: employees must earn below the JAEG, and returning after age 55 is nearly impossible.
Tips:
- GKV to PKV: your employer confirms eligibility through an opt-out declaration
- PKV to GKV: you must become an employee earning below JAEG, or become unemployed
- Do not cancel your current insurance until the new policy is confirmed in writing
Gather Your Documents
Whether joining GKV or PKV, you will need to provide certain documents. Having them ready speeds up the process significantly. The exact list depends on your employment type and nationality.
Tips:
- Always needed: passport/ID, Anmeldung, employment contract or proof of self-employment
- For PKV: medical records, recent payslips, and health questionnaire responses
- For non-EU citizens: residence permit and any visa-related insurance requirements
Activate Your Coverage
Once your application is accepted, confirm the start date, inform your employer, and ensure there is no gap between your previous coverage and new policy. Keep all confirmation documents for your records.
Tips:
- Inform your employer about your insurance type — they need it for payroll
- Keep your insurance card (Versichertenkarte) handy for doctor visits
- Set a calendar reminder to review your plan annually
Documents You Will Need
Gather these documents before starting the enrollment or switching process to avoid delays.
- Valid passport or IDRequired
- Registration certificate (Anmeldebescheinigung)Required
- Employment contract or proof of self-employmentRequired
- Recent payslips (last 3 months) — for GKV and PKVRequired
- Current insurance confirmation (if switching providers)Required
- Medical records / doctor’s reports (PKV only)Required
- Tax assessment (Steuerbescheid) for self-employedOptional
- Residence permit (for non-EU citizens)Optional
- Previous insurance history (from home country)Optional
- EU health insurance card (EHIC) if transferring from EU countryOptional
Important Warnings
Never lie on a PKV medical questionnaire. Inaccurate or incomplete health disclosures can lead to policy cancellation, denied claims, or even legal consequences.
Never cancel your current insurance before the new policy is confirmed. Always wait until your new application is fully accepted before terminating existing coverage to avoid gaps.
Use a licensed broker. An independent insurance broker (Versicherungsmakler) can compare all providers for you at no cost. They are legally required to act in your interest and can help with both GKV and PKV decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about choosing and switching health insurance in Germany.
GKV enrollment is usually immediate once your employer registers you. PKV applications take 2-4 weeks due to the medical underwriting process. Incoming insurance can be arranged online in minutes and activated the same day.
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements. Employees must earn above the JAEG (€77,400 in 2026) for at least 12 months. Freelancers can switch at any time. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks.
This is possible but restricted. Employees must drop below the JAEG or become unemployed. Self-employed individuals can switch to GKV by taking up employed work below the threshold. Returning after age 55 is nearly impossible under current law.
Not strictly, but a licensed broker (Versicherungsmakler) is highly recommended, especially for PKV. Brokers compare all major insurers, handle paperwork, and their services are free for you — they are paid by the insurance company.
If you leave Germany permanently, you can cancel your GKV or PKV policy. GKV cancellation is effective at the end of the month. PKV policies typically have a 3-month notice period. Make sure you have coverage in your destination country.
Ready to Choose Your Plan?
Connect with a licensed broker who will guide you through every step, compare your options, and handle the paperwork for you.