Public Health Insurance (GKV)
~€110/month
Best for: Students under 30 enrolled at a German university
Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), AOK, Barmer, DAK, IKK classic — all offer the same base coverage at the same price.
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Health Insurance for Students in Germany
Germany requires all students to have health insurance. Choose between public (GKV) and private coverage.
5 requirements 3 plan options 5 setup steps
Compare Plans Insurance Requirements
- Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany
- Proof of insurance required for university enrollment (Immatrikulation)
- Required for student visa and residence permit applications
- Students under 30 can join public health insurance (GKV)
- Students over 30 or in preparatory courses may need private insurance
Available Insurance Options
Private Health Insurance
From €39/month
Best for: Students over 30, language course students, PhD candidates
Flexible plans with varying coverage levels. Accepted for visa applications.
Learn moreTravel Health Insurance
From €1/day
Best for: Short-term stays, first weeks before permanent coverage
Temporary coverage for up to 5 years. Not sufficient for enrollment.
Learn moreCost Overview
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| GKV Student Rate | ~€110/month | Fixed rate for all public insurers, includes health + long-term care insurance |
| Private Insurance (Basic) | From €39/month | Varies by provider and coverage level |
| Private Insurance (Comprehensive) | €59–€120/month | Full coverage comparable to GKV with extras |
| Semester Contribution | €200–€400/semester | University fee (separate from insurance) — includes public transport ticket |
Item
GKV Student Rate
Cost
~€110/month
Details
Fixed rate for all public insurers, includes health + long-term care insurance
Item
Private Insurance (Basic)
Cost
From €39/month
Details
Varies by provider and coverage level
Item
Private Insurance (Comprehensive)
Cost
€59–€120/month
Details
Full coverage comparable to GKV with extras
Item
Semester Contribution
Cost
€200–€400/semester
Details
University fee (separate from insurance) — includes public transport ticket
Visa & Insurance Requirements
- Valid health insurance certificate required for visa application
- Insurance must cover the entire duration of your stay
- Minimum coverage: €30,000 for medical expenses
- GKV confirmation letter accepted by all German embassies
- Private insurance must meet specific embassy requirements
How to Get Insured
Choose Your Insurance Type
Decide between public (GKV) or private health insurance based on your age, enrollment status, and needs.
Apply Online
Submit your application with university admission letter, passport, and enrollment certificate.
Receive Your Certificate
Get your insurance confirmation (Versicherungsbescheinigung) within 1–3 business days.
Complete University Enrollment
Submit your insurance certificate to your university to finalize enrollment.
Get Your Insurance Card
Receive your electronic health card (eGK) by mail within 2–3 weeks.
Student Health Insurance in Germany
Germany has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and as an international student, you have access to the same quality care as German citizens. Health insurance isn’t just recommended — it’s legally required for university enrollment and visa applications.
The German Healthcare System
Germany operates a dual healthcare system with two types of insurance:
Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung / GKV): The standard choice for most students. All public insurers offer the same base coverage at the same price (~€110/month for students). The main providers are TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK, and IKK.
Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung / PKV): An alternative for students who don’t qualify for GKV (over 30, language course students) or who prefer customizable coverage. Prices start from €39/month.
Why Germany is Great for International Students
- World-class universities with low or no tuition fees
- Access to the same healthcare as German citizens
- Student insurance rates are heavily subsidized
- Extensive public transport included in semester ticket
- Work opportunities during and after studies
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my home country insurance in Germany?
EU/EEA students with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may be exempt from German insurance. Non-EU students generally need German health insurance.
What happens if I turn 30 during my studies?
You can stay in GKV until the end of the current semester. After that, you'll need to switch to private insurance or apply for a voluntary GKV membership at a higher rate (~€230/month).
Is dental care covered?
Basic dental care is covered by GKV. For extras like professional cleaning or orthodontics, consider supplementary dental insurance.
How do I see a doctor in Germany?
Find a doctor (Arzt), call for an appointment, and bring your insurance card. No referral needed for most specialists.
Can I work while on student insurance?
Yes, students can work up to 520 hours/year (mini-job) without affecting their insurance status. Working more may require switching to employee insurance.
Ready to Get Insured in Germany?
Compare plans and apply online in minutes. Get your certificate within 24 hours.
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