Health Insurance for International Students in Germany
Health Insurance for International Students in Germany – Complete 2025 Guide
Germany mandates health insurance coverage for all residents, including international students. Whether you pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program, proof of adequate health insurance is a prerequisite for enrollment at any German university and for obtaining a student visa.
Maximilian Eilert | Prokurist
Understanding the Importance of Health Insurance in Germany
Germany mandates health insurance coverage for all residents, including international students. Whether you pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program, proof of adequate health insurance is a prerequisite for enrollment at any German university and for obtaining a student visa.
Health insurance ensures access to the country’s advanced healthcare system, from general practitioners to specialized hospital treatments, at affordable rates.
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Types of Health Insurance in Germany for Students
There are two main categories of health insurance for international students in Germany: public (statutory) and private health insurance.
1. Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung – GKV)
Public health insurance is the most common and cost-effective choice for students under the age of 30 or enrolled in degree programs.
Key features:
- Monthly premium: Around €125–€150 (as of 2025), including nursing care insurance.
- Coverage: Doctor visits, hospital care, medication, dental check-ups, preventive care, and maternity benefits.
- Providers: Prominent insurers include TK (Techniker Krankenkasse), AOK, DAK, Barmer, and KKH.
- Eligibility: Available for full-time students at state-recognized institutions.
Advantages:
- Comprehensive and standardized benefits across providers.
- Direct billing with healthcare providers.
- Free coverage for dependent spouses or children (under certain conditions).
2. Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung – PKV)
Private health insurance is ideal for:
- Students over 30 years old.
- Language course participants or preparatory (Studienkolleg) students.
- Scholarship holders not enrolled in a public scheme.
Key features:
- Monthly premium: Varies widely, starting from €35–€120, depending on coverage, age, and health.
- Coverage: Can include enhanced benefits such as private hospital rooms, dental implants, and alternative medicine.
- Providers: DR-WALTER, MAWISTA, Care Concept, HanseMerkur, and Ottonova.
Advantages:
- Flexible plans tailored to individual needs.
- Possible refunds for unused medical services.
- English-language support for international clients.
Public vs. Private Health Insurance Comparison
Feature | Public (GKV) | Private (PKV) |
|---|---|---|
Monthly Cost | ~€125–€150 | €35–€120+ |
Eligibility | Students under 30 in degree programs | Over 30, preparatory, or language students |
Coverage | Standardized & comprehensive | Customizable |
Family Coverage | Often free for dependents | Usually separate |
Provider Choice | Limited to state-approved doctors | Wider range, private options |
Payment System | Direct billing | Reimbursement after claim |
Health Insurance Requirements for the German Student Visa
When applying for a student visa or residence permit, you must present proof of valid health insurance.
Requirements include:
- Coverage must begin from the date of arrival in Germany.
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 for private policies (as per German consulate requirements).
- Accepted insurance certificate from a recognized provider.
Embassies and universities strictly reject travel insurance or limited-coverage policies.
Switching Between Public and Private Insurance
Students who begin with private insurance can later switch to public insurance only under specific conditions, such as changing to a degree program under 30 years old. However, switching from public to private is usually irreversible during studies.
We recommend careful evaluation before signing contracts, as premature cancellation can be complex.
Top Health Insurance Providers for International Students in Germany (2025)
Provider | Type | Approx. Monthly Premium | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) | Public | €128 | English support, student-friendly app |
AOK | Public | €130 | Extensive regional offices |
DAK Gesundheit | Public | €135 | Free preventive check-ups |
MAWISTA Student | Private | From €35 | Short- and long-term plans |
DR-WALTER EDUCARE24 | Private | From €37 | Visa-compliant, travel coverage |
HanseMerkur Young Travel | Private | From €43 | 24/7 multilingual assistance |
Health Insurance for EU and EEA Students
Students from EU/EEA countries with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may be exempt from enrolling in a German health insurance plan. However, supplemental private coverage is advisable to cover additional costs like repatriation or private treatments.
Health Insurance for Non-EU Students
Non-EU students must obtain German-recognized insurance before entering the country. Most private providers offer visa-compliant packages tailored for foreign students.
You must present proof of coverage both at the German embassy and university registration office.
Additional Health-Related Considerations
- Dental Coverage: Public plans cover routine check-ups and basic treatments, while private plans may include advanced dental services.
- Mental Health Services: Covered under both systems with referral from a general practitioner.
- Emergency Care: All policies include 24/7 emergency medical support within Germany and the EU.
How to Apply for Health Insurance as a Student
Application process:
- Choose your preferred provider.
- Fill in the online registration form.
- Provide proof of enrollment (university admission letter).
- Receive your electronic insurance certificate (Meldebestätigung).
- Submit the certificate to your university and visa office.
Most providers offer online registration in English and issue confirmation letters within 24–48 hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Relying on travel insurance: Not valid for university registration.
- Choosing the cheapest option blindly: May lack essential coverage.
- Missing deadlines: Can delay enrollment or visa approval.
Final Recommendations
For most international students, public health insurance offers the best balance of affordability and comprehensive coverage. However, those over 30 or attending preparatory courses benefit from private student insurance plans.
We recommend comparing multiple offers and reading policy terms carefully before committing. Ensuring valid health insurance from day one will safeguard your studies and residence in Germany.