Health insurance is mandatory in Germany
Unlike many countries, Germany requires every resident to have health insurance. This applies from your first day of registration (Anmeldung).
As an expat, you have two options:
- Statutory health insurance (GKV) — public, income-based
- Private health insurance (PKV) — private, individually structured
Your eligibility depends on your employment status and income.
Can expats get private health insurance?
Yes — under these conditions:
- Employees earning above €77,400/year (2026 JAEG)
- Self-employed expats — regardless of income
- New arrivals with a qualifying employment contract
If your employment contract projects an annual income above €77,400, you can enter PKV from day one in Germany — even before your first paycheck.
The Blue Card myth
Many expats believe that the EU Blue Card salary threshold applies to health insurance eligibility.
This is incorrect.
The Blue Card has its own salary requirement for visa purposes. Health insurance eligibility is determined exclusively by the JAEG (€77,400 in 2026).
Why expats benefit most from PKV
- Young entry age — most expats enter in their 20s–30s, locking in low premiums
- No insurance history required — fresh start in the German system
- International travel coverage — included in most PKV plans
- English-speaking support — available through specialized agents
- Employer subsidy — 50% premium contribution from your employer
Common mistakes expats make
- Choosing cheap "expat insurance" — these are travel policies, not real health insurance
- Not understanding the difference between GKV and PKV — a system decision, not a product decision
- Ignoring the return-to-GKV difficulty — switching back is hard after 55
- Using brokers who don't speak English — misunderstandings in health declarations can void coverage
Why work with an English-speaking expert?
Health insurance in Germany involves legal documents, health declarations, and long-term contractual commitments — all typically in German.
Working with a certified English-speaking advisor means:
- Accurate health questionnaire completion
- Clear explanation of contractual obligations
- Proper comparison of all available options
- Ongoing English-language support for claims and questions