Germany now mandates health insurance coverage for all visa applicants and residents, a critical requirement for visa approval and residence.
Germany requires health insurance for all visa types and residents, making it a non-negotiable part of your move or visa application.
Whether you're applying for a student, work, family reunification, or residence visa, proof of health insurance is mandatory. German health insurance falls into two categories: statutory (gesetzliche) insurance, which is mandatory for employees and most residents, and private (private) insurance, available to self-employed and high-income earners. Costs for statutory insurance are roughly 8–9% of gross income, split between employee and employer. Private insurance premiums vary by age and health status but typically start around €150–€300 monthly.
Health insurance is mandatory for all German visas and residence permits—arrange it before arrival.
Before arriving, arrange insurance or ensure your home country policy covers Germany during your transition. Once in Germany, you must register with a health insurance provider within two weeks of arrival. Without proof of insurance, your visa application may be rejected or your residence permit renewal denied. Many expats use international health insurance initially, then switch to statutory German insurance once employed.
Source: original report ↗
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