Student health insurance in Germany serves two key purposes: Firstly, it ensures access to medical care when needed. Additionally, it’s a mandatory condition for obtaining a study visa. Germany’s law requires all individuals, including international students, to have health insurance coverage.
While those in degree programmes can opt for public health insurance, students in preparatory courses or language programmes, as well as those above 30 years old, must choose private health insurance.
This blog provides a clear understanding of student health insurance in Germany, along with the coverage and best picks.
To-Do List For Health Insurance After Arriving In Germany
While applying for health insurance for Germany student visa, travel health insurance is mandatory but will not replace the need for student health insurance in Germany. After you arrive in Germany, you should take several important steps regarding health insurance to ensure you have proper coverage for your medical needs. Here’s a to-do list for student health insurance in Germany:
1. Register Your Address: First, you must register your address (Anmeldung) at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt). This is a mandatory step for many administrative processes, including health insurance registration.
2. Choose a Health Insurance Provider: There are two main types of health insurance: Private and Public. Everyone must have public health insurance covering basic medical needs regardless of income. If you want more extensive coverage, private health insurance is available for those who earn above a certain amount.
3. Join a Statutory Health Insurance Fund (GKV): If you’re eligible for statutory health insurance, you can compare and choose a health insurance provider from the available options.
4. Obtain Health Insurance Coverage: Once you’ve chosen a health insurance fund, you must provide them with your registration documents and other required information. They will issue you a health insurance card that you should always carry with you.
5. Understand Premium Payments: If you are employed, your health insurance premiums will typically be deducted directly from your salary by your employer. The exact amount may vary depending on your income and the health insurance fund you have chosen.
6. Enroll Dependents: If you have family members (spouse, children) accompanying you in Germany, you’ll need to enrol them in the health insurance as well with the necessary documents.
7. Understand Co-Payments and Deductibles: Remember that even with health insurance, there might be co-payments or deductibles for certain medical services or medications. These costs can vary depending on the type of treatment and your health insurance plan.
8. Update Your Health Insurance: If your circumstances change (e.g., change in employment, income, or marital status), make sure to update your health insurance provider accordingly.
9. Explore Additional Insurance: While basic health insurance covers essential medical needs, you might also consider supplemental insurance to cover services not included in the standard package, such as dental treatments or alternative therapies.
Note: The health insurance requirements for a German student Visa can differ depending on your country. To get accurate information, contact your local German embassy or consulate.
What Should Student Health Insurance In Germany Cover?
When obtaining student health insurance in Germany, it is essential to ensure that your policy provides comprehensive coverage for various healthcare needs. Specifically, your health insurance plan should encompass the following crucial aspects:
1. In-patient Hospital Care: Your insurance should fully cover costs associated with hospitalisation, including treatments, surgeries, and accommodations during your stay.
2. Outpatient Care: The insurance policy should also extend coverage such as doctor’s appointments, consultations, and treatments that don’t require hospitalisation.
3. Regular Medical Checkups: Routine medical checkups and preventive healthcare measures should be included in your coverage.
4. Medication Costs: The cost of prescribed medications for short-term and chronic conditions should be covered under your insurance plan.
5. Basic Dental Care: The policy should provide at least basic dental services to address essential oral health needs.
6. Pregnancy Treatment: Pregnancy-related medical care, including prenatal and postnatal care, is crucial for expecting students.
7. Emergency Services (Ambulance): Immediate access to emergency medical services, including ambulance transportation, in case of unforeseen medical situations.
Note: Depending on your nationality, the health insurance from your home country might partially or fully cover your medical expenses in Germany
Health Insurance Cost In Germany For International Students
For students under 30 years old, the approach to healthcare insurance costs differs. Instead of the standard 7.3% social security contribution, a fixed (discounted) monthly fee applies. This fee covers both basic healthcare insurance and nursing care insurance for long-term care needs.
- Students under 23 years: €120.34 per month
- Students aged 23 to 30: €125.21 per month
These fixed amounts are generally more affordable than the contributions based on earnings, offering a cost-effective option for comprehensive health coverage.
Public Health Insurance Costs for International Students in Germany
There is reassuring news for international students when considering the cost of public health insurance for studying abroad in Germany. The same discounted rates apply to both global and local German students. The fixed monthly fee is as follows:
- Students under 23 years: €120.34
- Students aged 23 to 30: €125.21
This equitable approach ensures that international students can access health coverage at affordable rates, alleviating concerns about the financial aspects of healthcare while studying in Germany.
TK Health Insurance For International Students In Germany
- Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) stands as one of the largest healthcare funds in Germany.
- TK plays a crucial role in providing health insurance solutions to diverse individuals, including foreign students.
- TK offers coverage tailored for international students in Germany.
- More than 8.8 million people trust TK for their healthcare needs.
- TK provides help online and over the phone all week long.
- TK has an English support portal and application form for easy communication.
Public Health Insurance Costs for International Students in Germany (with TK)
For international students opting for health insurance coverage through TK, the standard (discounted) monthly rates apply, ensuring comprehensive protection. These rates are as follows:
- Students under 23 years: €120.34
- Students aged 23 to 30: €125.21
This coverage encompasses fundamental public healthcare and nursing insurance, providing support for current health needs and potential care requirements later in life.
Top 5 German Health Insurance For International Students
Below mentioned are the top picks for student health insurance in Germany:
1. IMG International Student Health Insurance
- Plans: IMG offers student-specific insurance plans with coverage for mental health, pre-existing conditions, and COVID-19.
- Coverage: Student Health Advantage and Student Health Advantage Platinum provide comprehensive coverage.
- Benefits: Over 17,000 global healthcare professionals, 24/7 customer service, covers COVID-19 and telemedicine.
- Concerns: Some plans have a one-year grace period for pre-existing conditions.
2. Cigna Global Student Health Insurance
- Plans: Cigna offers international students Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans.
- Coverage: Plans cover needs worldwide and can include US coverage.
- Customisation: Plans can be tailored, and flexible payment options are available.
- Pros: Quick refund response, extensive hospital network, 24/7 assistance.
- Cons: Basic plan lacks prenatal/postnatal care and no coverage for outpatient consultations with specialists.
3. Now Health International Student Plans
- Advantages: Strong emphasis on effective and affordable plans.
- Customisation: Plans are fully customisable to meet specific requirements.
- Coverage: Plans cover over 190 countries and territories.
- Benefits: Clear information, 24/7 customer service, and some plans cover
maternity routines.
- Concerns: Some procedures use a reimbursement system, the waiting period for maternity coverage.
4. Foyer Global Health Plans
- Options: Foyer offers basic, premium, short-term, and long-term plans.
- Coverage: Plans cover consultations, surgery, congenital diseases, and more.
- Features: Offers evacuation, repatriation, medical support, and pre-trip advice.
- Pros: Dental treatments included 24/7 customer service and evacuation service.
- Cons: Basic plan lacks prenatal/postnatal care.
5. HCCMIS StudentSecure Insurance
- Coverage Levels: Four levels with varying benefits and waiting periods.
- Advantages: Emergency dental care, savings plan for full payment, cost-effective.
- Concerns: Waiting period for pre-existing conditions, limited coverage in Smart plan, no maternity/nursery coverage in certain plans.
Conclusion
To summarise, student health insurance in Germany is essential to international students’ well-being. Students can receive quality medical care and preventive services with a wide selection of coverage options, improving academic performance and personal health. As students begin their academic adventure, Germany’s student health insurance provides a safety net that enhances their experience and contributes to a successful stay.
FAQs
1. Is travel insurance mandatory for students in Germany?
Yes, it is mandatory, as every student is legally obligated to possess adequate health insurance for the entire duration of their studies.
2. Is student health insurance in Germany expensive?
Private health insurance costs in Germany fluctuate based on factors such as age, health, coverage choices, and deductibles, typically ranging from 200 to 700 euros per month on average.
3. Can I live in Germany without health insurance?
No, everyone must have health insurance in Germany, and not having it can lead to fines and backdated payments for your entire time in the country.
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