Private Health Insurance Germany

Private health insurance in Germany is an alternative to the public health insurance. It offers more flexibility and coverage options but is not available to everyone in Germany.

The German Private Health Insurance System In A Nutshell

Welcome to our page dedicated to explaining the German private health insurance system. In Germany, people have the option to choose between private or public health insurance, with each option offering unique advantages and disadvantages. Private health insurance is a popular choice if you want more flexibility and personalized coverage options.

However, if you are not familiar with the system of private health insurance in Germany, it can be daunting for you to find your way through the system. That’s where we come in. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through the various aspects of the German private health insurance system, including eligibility requirements, coverage options, costs, and more. Whether you’re a foreign national planning to move to Germany or a German citizen looking to switch to private health insurance, our page is here to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.

A big difference between private and public health insurance in Germany is the way premiums are calculated. While public health insurance premiums are based on a percentage of income, private health insurance premiums are based on individual factors such as age, health status, and desired coverage levels. As a result, private health insurance premiums may be higher or lower than public health insurance premiums, depending on the individual’s circumstances.

One of the most attractive features of private health insurance in Germany is the flexibility it provides to customers. Private health insurance policies typically offer a wide range of coverage options, including dental, vision, and alternative therapies, which are usually not covered under the public health insurance system. Customers are also able to choose their own healthcare providers and hospitals and have the option of receiving care in private rooms. Additionally, most private health insurance policies offer coverage for medical treatment received outside of Germany, although this coverage may vary depending on the specific policy.

However, it is important to know that private health insurance is not the best option for everyone. It always depends on your individual situation when it comes to private health insurance. A decisive factor here, for example, is your health status. Private health insurance has the right to exclude you from certain benefits if the risk is too high for them. For certain people with pre-existing conditions or for people who are considered high-risk because of their age or other factors, it may be more difficult to take out private health insurance.

In summary, private health insurance in Germany is an alternative to the public health insurance system that provides greater flexibility and a wider range of coverage options to eligible individuals. While private health insurance may be more expensive or have limitations on coverage, it can be a valuable option for those who are able to enroll and who require additional coverage beyond what is offered by the public health insurance system. As with any healthcare decision, it is important for you to carefully consider your options and consult with a qualified professional before making a decision on health insurance coverage.

Our Latest Private Health Insurance Videos

On our YouTube playlist about private health insurance, we go into detail about it and show you exactly how private health insurance works and what you should consider. Among other things, we compare them to the public health insurance in Germany.

Our Latest Private Health Insurance Blog Posts

In our blog, we report on everything there is to know about private health insurance in Germany and give a comprehensive overview. Among other things, we inform you about current events, misconceptions and changes in the field of private health insurance.

Our Latest Private Health Insurance Blog Posts

In our blog, we report on everything there is to know about private health insurance in Germany and give a comprehensive overview. Among other things, we inform you about current events, misconceptions and changes in the field of private health insurance.

Find The Best Private Health Insurance For You With Our Calculators

With our calculators you have the possibility to apply for a private health insurance very comfortably and as fast as possible. This option will forward you, so you can take out a private health insurance immediately.

Fastest Way To PRIVATE Health Insurance In Germany

Find the best PRIVATE health insurance in Germany for your individual situation.

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Who can switch to private health insurance in Germany?

To be insured in private health insurance, there are various requirements. Only the self-employed, freelancers, civil servants, students, and employees with certain requirements are free to switch.

Employees
  • As an employee, your gross income must be above the so-called annual income threshold (JAEG) of 69.300€/year or 5.775€/month in 2024 (regular payments such as vacation or Christmas bonuses count as well).
  • half of the monthly contribution is paid by your employer up to the maximum amount of the Arbeitgeberzuschuss.
Civil Servants
  • As a civil servant, you have the choice of whether you want to take out voluntary public health insurance or private health insurance

  • Through the Beihilfe, the state contributes to the cost of health insurance. As a rule, 50% for civil servants and civil servant candidates, 70% for the spouse, and 50% for the children.

  • The other part must be completed by health insurance (Restkostenversicherung)
Self-Employed & Freelancer
  • As a self-employed person or freelancer, you always have the option for private health insurance, regardless of your income
  • With public health insurance, the comparable monthly contribution is often high
  • In an artistic or journalistic activity, you may be subject to compulsory insurance in the Künstlersozialkasse.
Students
  • As a student, you are free to choose between public and private health insurance, but you are bound by this decision for the entire duration of your studies.
  • There are special plans for students, which are particularly useful for the children of civil servants, as you can receive up to 80% of the Beihilfe.
  • After graduation, you can rejoin the public health insurance system

Who can switch to private health insurance in Germany?

To be insured in private health insurance, there are various requirements. Only the self-employed, freelancers, civil servants, students, and employees with certain requirements are free to switch.

Employees
  • As an employee, your gross income must be above the so-called annual income threshold (JAEG) of 69.300€/year or 5.775€/month in 2024 (regular payments such as vacation or Christmas bonuses count as well).
  • half of the monthly contribution is paid by your employer up to the maximum amount of the Arbeitgeberzuschuss.
Civil Servants
  • As a civil servant, you have the choice of whether you want to take out voluntary public health insurance or private health insurance

  • Through the Beihilfe, the state contributes to the cost of health insurance. As a rule, 50% for civil servants and civil servant candidates, 70% for the spouse, and 50% for the children.

  • The other part must be completed by health insurance (Restkostenversicherung)
Self-Employed & Freelancer
  • As a self-employed person or freelancer, you always have the option for private health insurance, regardless of your income
  • With public health insurance, the comparable monthly contribution is often high
  • In an artistic or journalistic activity, you may be subject to compulsory insurance in the Künstlersozialkasse.
Students
  • As a student, you are free to choose between public and private health insurance, but you are bound by this decision for the entire duration of your studies.
  • There are special plans for students, which are particularly useful for the children of civil servants, as you can receive up to 80% of the Beihilfe.
  • After graduation, you can rejoin the public health insurance system

Learn More About Private Health Insurance in Germany On Social Media

Social media can be a valuable source of information when learning more about health insurance in Germany. By following our accounts, you can get helpful tips, news, and resources related to health insurance policies and regulations in Germany.

advantages / disadvantages of private health insurance in Germany

Public and private health insurance are two fundamentally different systems. It is difficult to say which is better. Everyone has to weigh up the pros and cons for themselves. We have compiled the most important arguments for and against private health insurance.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Higher Quality of Medical Care

A good private health insurance policy ensures access to first-class medical treatment. There are policies that cover treatment by specialists, in private clinics or abroad. The coverage also includes the latest treatment methods.

No family insurance available

There is no family insurance in private health insurance. While, sometimes, children and non-working partners can also be insured free of charge in public health insurance, in private health insurance everyone must be insured themselves and pay contributions. This can lead to additional costs.

Customisable insurance coverage

When looking for private health insurance, you can choose a plan that is customized to your individual needs and preferences. This way, you get the insurance coverage you want and can afford. In addition, the benefits specified in your contract are guaranteed and cannot be reduced by the provider.

Pre-existing health conditions

Before you sign a contract with a private health insurer, a health check is usually required. If you have significant health problems, you can either be rejected or have to pay a risk surcharge. This can make your private health insurance considerably more expensive. However, if you have been accepted, the price of your policy will not change if you become ill.

No Flat rate per case

In the public health insurance system, per-case flat rates apply, which means that the same amount is paid regardless of what treatment is actually required for a particular illness or accident. Thus, when the allocated funds are exhausted, the hospital or doctor suffers a loss. In contrast, privately insured patients are charged for what is actually needed, which is why the hospital stay can sometimes last longer.

Switching between public and private

In Germany, there are regulations that prevent frequent switching between statutory and private health insurance. Once you have become a member of private health insurance, it is usually very difficult to return to statutory health insurance. To do this, you must talk to your employer and make use of your legal right to work part-time temporarily, which will probably result in your income falling below the threshold for private health insurance. It is important to note that this is not always possible.

Faster doctor appointment

Private health insurance offers the advantage of getting a doctor’s appointment faster. Doctors tend to prioritize appointments for private patients, as they receive higher payment for the same treatment than patients with public health insurance. In addition, doctors can charge for each service individually.

Potentially Higher premiums in Retirement

Private health insurance is not linked to your income, which means that if you do not make provisions for your old age, the costs in retirement can be higher than in public health insurance. Therefore, it can make sense to use the savings from private health insurance and invest them in the best way.

advantages / disadvantages of private health insurance in Germany

Public and private health insurance are two fundamentally different systems. It is difficult to say which is better. Everyone has to weigh up the pros and cons for themselves. We have compiled the most important arguments for and against private health insurance.

Advantages

Higher Quality of Medical Care

A good private health insurance policy ensures access to first-class medical treatment. There are policies that cover treatment by specialists, in private clinics or abroad. The coverage also includes the latest treatment methods.

Customisable insurance coverage

When looking for private health insurance, you can choose a plan that is customized to your individual needs and preferences. This way, you get the insurance coverage you want and can afford. In addition, the benefits specified in your contract are guaranteed and cannot be reduced by the provider.

No Flat rate per case

In the public health insurance system, per-case flat rates apply, which means that the same amount is paid regardless of what treatment is actually required for a particular illness or accident. Thus, when the allocated funds are exhausted, the hospital or doctor suffers a loss. In contrast, privately insured patients are charged for what is actually needed, which is why the hospital stay can sometimes last longer.

Faster doctor appointment

Private health insurance offers the advantage of getting a doctor’s appointment faster. Doctors tend to prioritize appointments for private patients, as they receive higher payment for the same treatment than patients with public health insurance. In addition, doctors can charge for each service individually.

Disadvantages

No family insurance available

There is no family insurance in private health insurance. While, sometimes, children and non-working partners can also be insured free of charge in public health insurance, in private health insurance everyone must be insured themselves and pay contributions. This can lead to additional costs.

Pre-existing health conditions

Before you sign a contract with a private health insurer, a health check is usually required. If you have significant health problems, you can either be rejected or have to pay a risk surcharge. This can make your private health insurance considerably more expensive. However, if you have been accepted, the price of your policy will not change if you become ill.

Switching between public and private

In Germany, there are regulations that prevent frequent switching between statutory and private health insurance. Once you have become a member of private health insurance, it is usually very difficult to return to statutory health insurance. To do this, you must talk to your employer and make use of your legal right to work part-time temporarily, which will probably result in your income falling below the threshold for private health insurance. It is important to note that this is not always possible.

Potentially Higher premiums in Retirement

Private health insurance is not linked to your income, which means that if you do not make provisions for your old age, the costs in retirement can be higher than in public health insurance. Therefore, it can make sense to use the savings from private health insurance and invest them in the best way.

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How can PerFinEx help you switch to private health insurance in Germany

From information gathering and advice to the conclusion of a private health insurance policy. We at PerFinEx can help you find the perfect private health insurance for you and assist you all along the way.

1st Step: Inform Yourself​

Before making the decision to switch to private health insurance, it’s important to have a good understanding of what it entails. Fortunately, there are several resources available that can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

One of the best places to start is by checking out our blog articles. These articles cover a range of topics related to private health insurance, including the benefits and drawbacks of switching, how premiums are calculated, and what types of coverage are available. Our blog is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about private health insurance and how it can impact your healthcare.

In addition to our blog, we also offer a variety of YouTube videos that cover similar topics. These videos are a great way to get a more visual understanding of how private health insurance works and can help you make a more informed decision. 

1
Inform Yourself​
2
Get In Touch With Us​

2nd Step: Get In Touch With Us​

Once you have done enough research and weighed up the pros and cons, you may come to the conclusion that private health insurance could be the more suitable option for your health needs. If this is the case, you can contact us for further advice.

To start the process, we invite you to arrange a free consultation with our team. During this consultation, we will take the time to get to know you better and address your individual circumstances to determine if switching to private health insurance is the right decision for you.

We understand that you may have doubts or concerns about switching and we are happy to address these so that you can make an informed decision. Our team of experts is well-equipped to answer your questions and provide you with detailed information about the different plans and options available to you.

At the end of the conversation, you should have a clear idea of whether private health insurance fits your health goals and financial situation. You can rely on us to give you honest, unbiased advice and to address your specific needs. We will work closely with you to ensure a seamless transition if you decide to switch to private health insurance.

3rd Step: We Create An Overview

In the next phase of our process, we work together with you to create an overview. In this, we include your individual situation and take into account your specific requirements. In this process, we address your individual needs, such as ensuring adequate insurance coverage abroad, high-quality insurance coverage during pregnancy, or enabling you to receive excellent dental treatment.

Then we will usually present you with three possible tariffs, which we will review together. We will carefully weigh up the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best possible decision.

In addition, we will provide you with a detailed PDF file describing the proposed options so that you can study the details on your own. This document contains all the essential information about each plan, as well as any other factor that may be relevant to your situation.

With the overview, you will also receive a list of information that we need in case you wanna switch to private health insurance. So once you decide on an option, you can easily provide us with the information.

3
We Create An Overview
4
Answer The Health Questions​

4th Step: Answer The Health Questions

We will now start the health application process. In this step, it is at the discretion of the private health insurer to either approve or reject our application or apply a risk surcharge to your contract. For this reason, you will be asked a series of questions about your health.

As these questions are in German, we will arrange a follow-up appointment with you to answer the questionnaire together. The questionnaire covers all three major areas of health insurance, i.e. inpatient, outpatient, and dental.

During the follow-up appointment, we support you in answering the individual questions accurately and ensure that all relevant information are provided clearly and precisely. This collaborative approach helps us to present you in the best possible light to the insurance company, thus improving your chances of approval or reducing the likelihood of a risk surcharge.

5th Step: Application & Resignation​

Based on the details and information provided to you, we will prepare your application for the desired private health insurance. We take over the entire application process for you and send you the application for review before completion.

We will then go through the application carefully together and clarify any outstanding details or questions you may have and answer any outstanding questions together. Once everything is clarified, all you need to do is digitally sign the application and we will forward it to the selected provider.

We will also prepare a termination letter for your current health insurance plan. Although we can’t send this cancellation letter on your behalf, we’ll walk you through the process and make sure you know exactly what to do. All you need to do is sign the cancellation letter and submit it to your current provider to complete the process of switching to a new private health insurance plan.

5
Application & Resignation​
6
Confirmation​ & Enjoy

6th Step: Receive the Confirmation​ & Enjoy

After submitting your application, you need to wait for confirmation from the private health insurance company that you wanna be accepted. It is possible that the insurance company may have further questions about the application. If this is the case, we will inform you immediately and assist you in answering these questions.

Once all questions have been resolved and your application has been accepted, we will receive the final insurance policy. This policy will contain important information that you will need to provide to your employer in order to receive the employer match. It also contains a letter that you must forward to your current health insurer to inform them of your new insurance. This step is important because health insurance is mandatory in Germany, which does not allow you to leave until you receive a confirmation of the new insurance.

After a few days, you will also receive the necessary documents by post and then you only have to wait for the cancellation period (two full months) of your previous health insurance. After the cancellation period has expired, you can use and enjoy your new private health insurance and be sure that you have taken out comprehensive and effective insurance coverage.

How can PerFinEx help you switch to private health insurance in Germany

From information gathering and advice to the conclusion of a private health insurance policy. We at PerFinEx can help you find the perfect private health insurance for you and assist you all along the way.

1
Inform Yourself​

1st Step: Inform Yourself​

Before making the decision to switch to private health insurance, it’s important to have a good understanding of what it entails. Fortunately, there are several resources available that can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

One of the best places to start is by checking out our blog articles. These articles cover a range of topics related to private health insurance, including the benefits and drawbacks of switching, how premiums are calculated, and what types of coverage are available. Our blog is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about private health insurance and how it can impact your healthcare.

In addition to our blog, we also offer a variety of YouTube videos that cover similar topics. These videos are a great way to get a more visual understanding of how private health insurance works and can help you make a more informed decision. 

2
Get In Touch With Us​

2nd Step: Get In Touch With Us​

Once you have done enough research and weighed up the pros and cons, you may come to the conclusion that private health insurance could be the more suitable option for your health needs. If this is the case, you can contact us for further advice.

To start the process, we invite you to arrange a free consultation with our team. During this consultation, we will take the time to get to know you better and address your individual circumstances to determine if switching to private health insurance is the right decision for you.

We understand that you may have doubts or concerns about switching and we are happy to address these so that you can make an informed decision. Our team of experts is well-equipped to answer your questions and provide you with detailed information about the different plans and options available to you.

At the end of the conversation, you should have a clear idea of whether private health insurance fits your health goals and financial situation. You can rely on us to give you honest, unbiased advice and to address your specific needs. We will work closely with you to ensure a seamless transition if you decide to switch to private health insurance.

3
We Create An Overview

3rd Step: We Create An Overview

In the next phase of our process, we work together with you to create an overview. In this, we include your individual situation and take into account your specific requirements. In this process, we address your individual needs, such as ensuring adequate insurance coverage abroad, high-quality insurance coverage during pregnancy, or enabling you to receive excellent dental treatment.

Then we will usually present you with three possible tariffs, which we will review together. We will carefully weigh up the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best possible decision.

In addition, we will provide you with a detailed PDF file describing the proposed options so that you can study the details on your own. This document contains all the essential information about each plan, as well as any other factor that may be relevant to your situation.

With the overview, you will also receive a list of information that we need in case you wanna switch to private health insurance. So once you decide on an option, you can easily provide us with the information.

4
Answer The Health Questions​

4th Step: Answer The Health Questions

We will now start the health application process. In this step, it is at the discretion of the private health insurer to either approve or reject our application or apply a risk surcharge to your contract. For this reason, you will be asked a series of questions about your health.

As these questions are in German, we will arrange a follow-up appointment with you to answer the questionnaire together. The questionnaire covers all three major areas of health insurance, i.e. inpatient, outpatient, and dental.

During the follow-up appointment, we support you in answering the individual questions accurately and ensure that all relevant information are provided clearly and precisely. This collaborative approach helps us to present you in the best possible light to the insurance company, thus improving your chances of approval or reducing the likelihood of a risk surcharge.

5
Application & Resignation​

5th Step: Application & Resignation​

Based on the details and information provided to you, we will prepare your application for the desired private health insurance. We take over the entire application process for you and send you the application for review before completion.

We will then go through the application carefully together and clarify any outstanding details or questions you may have and answer any outstanding questions together. Once everything is clarified, all you need to do is digitally sign the application and we will forward it to the selected provider.

We will also prepare a termination letter for your current health insurance plan. Although we can’t send this cancellation letter on your behalf, we’ll walk you through the process and make sure you know exactly what to do. All you need to do is sign the cancellation letter and submit it to your current provider to complete the process of switching to a new private health insurance plan.

6
Confirmation​ & Enjoy

6th Step: Receive the Confirmation​ & Enjoy

After submitting your application, you need to wait for confirmation from the private health insurance company that you wanna be accepted. It is possible that the insurance company may have further questions about the application. If this is the case, we will inform you immediately and assist you in answering these questions.

Once all questions have been resolved and your application has been accepted, we will receive the final insurance policy. This policy will contain important information that you will need to provide to your employer in order to receive the employer match. It also contains a letter that you must forward to your current health insurer to inform them of your new insurance. This step is important because health insurance is mandatory in Germany, which does not allow you to leave until you receive a confirmation of the new insurance.

After a few days, you will also receive the necessary documents by post and then you only have to wait for the cancellation period (two full months) of your previous health insurance. After the cancellation period has expired, you can use and enjoy your new private health insurance and be sure that you have taken out comprehensive and effective insurance coverage.

What Our Amazing Clients Say About Us

Get an idea of how working with us is by reading what our clients say about us. In addition, you have the possibility to give us a review yourself.

Parth Sarthi PandeyParth Sarthi Pandey
14:50 07 Dec 22
It was wonderful working with PerFinEx. You get clear and honest advice and I had one of the most smooth experiences of buying any policy in Germany.
I've had a few calls with the folks from PerFinEx. I quickly built trust and started using their services. They present themselves as a key partner for your finances, specially when you are not from Germany.I'm looking forward to building a lasting business relationship with them. It's been such a great start.
Rajwinder SinghRajwinder Singh
16:28 12 Aug 22
Best Financial advisor for Expats! I am happy to collaborate you. Thanks for advising on how to maximize my financial gains. 🙂 I would totally recommend PerFinex to anybody looking to maximize their earnings.
Satwik ShenoySatwik Shenoy
09:55 20 Jun 22
PerFinEx for expats in Germany is a legit one-stop shop for all your insurance needs and financial planning. They managed to solve all my insurance problems in Germany in no time and their YouTube videos are super informative.Axel and Pascal were a pleasure to work with. I'd highly recommend you talk to them. Even if you already have your insurances, you could revisit your current situation and work on making them better and more efficient. The way he speaks clearly shows he is here to help.Wishing you all the very best and keep those videos coming!
Luis Alfonzo GonzálezLuis Alfonzo González
20:52 15 Mar 22
I first got in touch with Axel through his YouTube channel, then we arranged a meeting and he was super helpful and explained everything to me. I really value his patience and work ethic. I can recommend him for all expats living in Germany!
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FAQ About Private Health Insurance In Germany

Would you like to check if your query has already been answered? Our private health insurance in Germany FAQ includes all the essential questions that you may be interested in. If you have other questions, just simply write us a message below.

How much does health insurance in Germany cost?

Public health insurance is charged with a basic premium of 14.6% and an additional charge of, on average, 1.7% of your gross income. This must be paid for a maximum income of 5,175€ monthly (in 2024). Higher incomes will not be charged for your health insurance in Germany. In contrast, private health insurance is calculated on an individual basis. Therefore, your health status and your entry age are the most important factors for your monthly costs.

How can a foreigner get health insurance in Germany?

As soon as you come to Germany and start to work here, your employer will register you with German public health insurance. However, you can still look for health insurance yourself. To do this, you must inform your employer within two weeks of starting work. Our recommendation is to talk to an insurance expert to get the best health insurance in Germany for your individual situation. Anyhow, finding German health insurance for foreigners is not the problem, the difficulty is rather to find the right one.

How do I get private health insurance in Germany?

If you are self-employed, a civil servant, earn above 69.300€ yearly (in 2024), have no basis to join public insurance, or are a student who renounces their public insurance, you are free to choose either public or private health insurance. Therefore, you need to cancel your public insurance, get private insurance, and send some letters of your private health insurance confirmation to your current, already canceled public health insurance. We at PerFinEx can help you find the best private health insurance in Germany for your individual situation. We will also help you with the German paperwork.

How do I choose health insurance in Germany?

Your health insurance options depend on your income and employment status. Most people in Germany are forced to be insured in statutory health insurance. Therefore, it will be the same coverage with any provider and only a small difference in cost. However, if you are self-employed, a civil servant, or earn more than 69.300€ (in 2024), you are eligible for private health insurance. In this case, our recommendation is to discuss your individual situation with an insurance expert, such as us, to find out what makes the most sense for you.

Book A Free Meeting With Us To Discuss Your Health Insurance

Finding the best private health insurance in Germany for you can be difficult – especially as an expat with limited German skills. Secure a free consultation with us & our health insurance experts will make choosing the best health insurance as easy as possible.

Get In Touch With Us

Would you like to learn more about private health insurance in Germany or do you need help by setting up your health insurance? Please feel free to send us a message.