Key information for international students regarding health insurance in Germany

Mirja Lundehn, the primary health insurance consultant at KLforExpats, delves into the essential aspects of health insurance selection for international students in Germany.
With renowned universities and promising career prospects, Germany stands out in the global higher education landscape. For those aspiring to study in Germany, whether pursuing undergraduate, master's, or PhD degrees, securing health insurance is a crucial step in the relocation and university enrollment process.
Is health insurance mandatory for international students in Germany?
Health insurance is a legal requirement for all residents in Germany, including international students. To complete university enrollment, you must demonstrate that you have health insurance, making it one of the initial arrangements upon arrival.
However, students from EU member countries and specific nations like Iceland, Norway, Serbia, and others may use their home country's health insurance while in Germany. Yet, it's advisable to clarify coverage details with your home country provider. Additionally, engaging in student employment in Germany mandates a switch to German health insurance, irrespective of nationality.
What health insurance options are available for foreign students in Germany?
The German healthcare system offers public (statutory) and private insurance schemes, each with distinct features determining suitability. While affordability is a consideration, other factors warrant careful evaluation.
While low-cost plans may seem appealing initially, potential drawbacks could arise in the future. Therefore, consulting an impartial advisor, often available at no charge, is prudent if uncertain.
For international students contemplating study in Germany, here are pertinent details to consider when choosing between public and private health insurance:
Public health insurance for students:
Undergraduate or master's students below 30 years old must join Germany’s public health insurance scheme, unless exempted based on statutory European health insurance.
Opting for private insurance requires proactive exemption from the public scheme within three months to avoid dual insurance obligations.
Public health insurance grants access to essential medical services, including GP consultations, maternity care, and basic dental coverage, with contributions ranging from approximately 120 to 135 euros monthly.
Private health insurance for students:
Certain international students may not be obliged to enroll in public health insurance, including those above 30 years old, pursuing post-graduate studies, or self-employed.
Voluntary contribution to public insurance is possible, although without discounted student rates. Alternatively, students can opt for private health insurance, with costs varying based on factors like age, medical history, and coverage level.
Comprehensive private health insurance offers additional services such as advanced dental treatments and faster appointments, tailored to individual needs.
Travel health insurance (a caveat to avoid!):
Despite seemingly attractive options online, many low-priced insurance offerings are essentially travel insurance, which may pose complications, especially for post-study residency or employment in Germany.
Travel health insurance often lacks coverage for essential services like pregnancy, birth delivery, and pre-existing conditions, potentially leading to unresolved issues and back payments.
What deadlines and considerations should students keep in mind?
Ensure inclusion of mandatory long-term nurse care insurance (Pflegepflichtversicherung), costing around 30 euros monthly, in the insurance offer.
Failure to request exemption and opt for private insurance within three months of the first semester start can result in future challenges, including retroactive payments.
How do students apply for health insurance in Germany?
Students can directly contact health insurance providers or seek guidance from independent brokers, who offer unbiased advice at no cost.
Upon application, students receive a certificate of insurance, essential for residence permit applications and university enrollment.