Incoming Insurance Germany

What is an Incoming Insurance and who does need it?

Incoming insurance is a mandatory short-term health insurance (in German: Krankenversicherung) solution for foreigners to prove they have medical coverage when first moving to Germany until they can get long-term insurance.

It is a type of health insurance designed specifically for tourists and other short-term visitors in Germany. This insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and illnesses during your stay. It's essential because it ensures that you have access to healthcare services without facing exorbitant costs.

Purpose and Benefits of Incoming Insurance

The primary purpose of incoming insurance is to offer peace of mind by covering unexpected medical expenses. It serves as a bridge until you can enroll in long-term public or private health insurance after arriving in Germany. Benefits include:

• Coverage for medical treatments and hospital stays
• Access to emergency medical services
• Financial protection against high medical costs

Risks and Costs Without Incoming Health Insurance

Without incoming Krankenversicherung, you could face significant risks and costs, including:

• High out-of-pocket expenses for medical treatments
• Limited access to healthcare services
• Potential legal issues for failing to comply with insurance requirements

Do Foreigners in Germany Need Health Insurance?

Yes, foreigners in Germany are typically required to have health insurance. This requirement applies to short-term visitors, such as tourists, business travelers, as well as those planning longer stays. The specific rules for mandatory health insurance depend on the type of stay and visa status.

For instance, obtaining a Schengen visa often requires proof of valid travel health insurance that meets minimum standards. Likewise, applying for a residence permit for a longer stay generally necessitates proof of German public or private comprehensive health insurance.

These regulations are in place to ensure that everyone in Germany has access to adequate medical care in case of illness.

What are the advantages of private compared to public health insurance?

• Lower insurance premiums: The cost of private health insurance can be lower. So, you can save a lot of money (up to €3,100 per year.)
• More benefits: For many treatments, private health insurance covers more costs than public health insurance (e.g. non-medical practitioners).
• Control over benefits: You can adjust your benefits and thus the premium to your needs

By the way, you can join private health insurance despite illness - your contribution will then be individualized according to the risk (risk surcharge). Depending on the diagnosis, private health insurance also has the right to refuse membership.

Types of Health Insurance for Expats in Germany

The type of health insurance you need as an Expat depends on how long you plan to stay in Germany. There are short-term and long-term health insurance options.

Short-term Health Insurance for Expats: Travel vs. Incoming Insurance

Short-term insurance is ideal for tourists or visitors staying in Germany for a few days to several months. While travel insurance also covers medical emergencies, it is typically more limited than incoming Krankenversicherung.

Travel insurance is best for short trips, while incoming insurance is more broad and suitable for longer stays to bridge the time before taking out a comprehensive health insurance. It covers:

• Emergency medical treatments
• Hospital stays
• Doctor visits

Long-term Health Insurance for Expats

If you are an expat planning to stay in Germany for an extended period, long-term healthcare insurance is essential. It provides comprehensive coverage similar to what residents receive, including:

• Regular check-ups and doctor visits
• Prescription medications
• Specialist treatments
• Hospital stays
• Emergency medical treatments

In Germany, the healthcare system offers two main types of health insurance: public (statutory) health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV) and private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung, PKV). Expats may be able to choose between the systems.

Here are the key differences between them:

Public Health Insurance (GKV)

Public health insurance is mandatory for employees earning below approximately €69,300 annually, and self-employed individuals, students, pensioners, and unemployed people can also join. Premiums are income-based (14.6% of gross income plus an additional supplemental contribution). Dependents without their own income are covered at no additional cost.

Coverage includes standardized benefits for hospital stays, outpatient care, dental care, and prescription medications.

There are generally no upfront payments for treatments, as billing is handled directly between healthcare providers and insurers. But there can be Out-of-pocket costs for treatments and medicine.

Private Health Insurance (PKV)

Private health insurance is available to employees earning above approximately €69,300 annually, self-employed individuals, and certain other groups, with membership requiring a health screening. Premiums are calculated based on individual factors like age, health, and coverage level, and each family member requires a separate policy.

Coverage can be more extensive and tailored, including services not covered by public health insurance, quicker access to specialists, and more freedom in choosing healthcare providers.

Policyholders get reimbursed by their insurance after submitting their invoices. There is potential for greater reimbursement for a wider range of services than in public health insurance.

ottonova even offers a special private health insurance expat tariff for foreigners who are in Germany on a limited visa. If you only plan to stay for a limited time of five years that could be a suitable solution for you.

For international students there also insurance plans that cover your health during your studies in Germany.

Choosing the right Incoming Insurance in Germany

Incoming insurance is essential for expats, tourists, and visitors in Germany to ensure access to healthcare and financial protection against medical expenses. Understanding the different types of insurance, how to choose the right plan, and the application process can help you stay prepared and compliant with German laws.

Make sure to secure the appropriate incoming insurance before your trip to Germany and ensure adequate coverage before moving . Research providers, compare plans, and apply early to ensure you're covered from day one.

For tailored advice and to find the best plan for your needs, consult with an insurance expert and get personalized advice for Incoming Krankenversicherung. They can help you navigate the options and choose the most suitable coverage.

Factors to consider when selecting a Plan

When choosing the right incoming Versicherung, consider the following factors:

• Length of stay in Germany
• Coverage needs (emergency only vs. comprehensive)
• Budget constraints
• Specific health requirements

Comparing different Incoming Insurance Providers

To find the best incoming insurance plan, compare different providers based on:

• Coverage options and limits
• Premium costs
• Customer service and support
• Reviews and ratings from other expats

Necessary Documents for Incoming Health Insurance (Krankenversicherung)

To apply for incoming insurance, you'll typically need:

• Valid passport
• Visa or residence permit
• Proof of address in Germany (if applicable)
• Bank account information for premium payments

Tips for a smooth Application Experience

To avoid delays, start the application process early. Ensure that all your documents are up-to-date and correctly filled out. If you have any questions or need clarifications, contact the insurance provider's customer service.

Coverage provided by incoming insurance in Germany

Your Incoming Insurance pays for:

• Assistance in personal emergencies (illness, accident, death) and the organization of medical repatriation using appropriate medical means as soon as it is medically advisable and justifiable.
• Illness or accident during temporary travel to all European Union states or a member state of the Schengen Agreement.
• Outpatient treatment by a doctor.
• Medications and treatments prescribed by a doctor.
• Inpatient treatment in a hospital and medically necessary, doctor-prescribed rehabilitation measures as follow-up treatment.
• Short stays for students, such as language courses or semester breaks.

Your Incoming Health Insurance does not cover:

• Services in countries where the insured person has a permanent residence.

Duration of Coverage for Incoming Insurance in Germany

Your incoming insurance Germany coverage starts at the beginning of your trip and lasts until the agreed-upon end date, or until your trip concludes, whichever comes first. The maximum coverage period is 93 days. If your stay in Germany or the Schengen area is extended beyond your initial plans, you can often extend your incoming insurance to match your new schedule.

Schengen Area: Where is Incoming Insurance in Germany Valid?

The incoming insurance for Germany is valid throughout Europe, including the Schengen Area, which encompasses a wide range of European countries. These countries – including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and many others – allow their citizens and international visitors to travel freely without the need for passport or border controls.

For foreign visitors wishing to enter these countries, a visa is required. A crucial condition for obtaining a visa is securing an incoming insurance policy that provides coverage during the stay in Schengen states, as well as in other European countries such as Andorra, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, San Marino, Vatican City, and Cyprus.