Free Tool — 2026 Rules

Public vs Private Health Insurance

The German healthcare system is world-class, but choosing between Gesetzliche (Public) and Private insurance is the biggest financial decision you will make as an expat.

Step 1

What is your current or planned employment status in Germany?

Understanding German Healthcare (Krankenversicherung)

Germany operates a dual healthcare system. Approximately 90% of the population is enrolled in the statutory public health insurance system (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV), while the remaining 10% opt for private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung - PKV).

Public Health Insurance (GKV)

Public insurance is built on the solidarity principle: you pay based on what you earn, not based on your health risk.

  • Cost: Exactly 14.6% of your gross salary + a small provider supplement.
  • Cap: Premiums are capped. Even if you earn €100,000, you only pay premiums up to the BBG limit (€5,512.50/month in 2026).
  • Family: Non-working spouses and children are fully covered for free.
  • Pre-existing conditions: Covered immediately with no questions asked.
  • Payment: The doctor bills the insurance directly via your health card. You never see a bill.

Private Health Insurance (PKV)

Private insurance operates like standard global insurance. You pay based on your individual risk profile.

  • Eligibility: You must earn over €73,800/year (2026) or be a freelancer to qualify.
  • Cost: Based on age, health at the time of signing, and the chosen deductible. It can be significantly cheaper for young, healthy singles.
  • Benefits: Often includes superior coverage like single hospital rooms, priority appointments, and head physician treatment.
  • Family: You must pay a separate monthly premium for every child and non-working spouse.
  • Payment: You usually pay the doctor upfront and submit the invoice to the insurance for reimbursement.

The Golden Rule for Expats

If you plan to stay in Germany long-term and start a family, stay in the Public system. If you are young, single, highly paid, and only plan to stay in Germany for 2-5 years, Private insurance will save you thousands of euros.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.Is health insurance mandatory in Germany?

Yes, health insurance (Krankenversicherung) is a legal requirement for everyone residing in Germany. You cannot get a work visa, residency permit, or even register at a university without proof of valid German health insurance.

Q.How much does public health insurance (GKV) cost in 2026?

Public health insurance costs exactly 14.6% of your gross salary, plus a supplemental rate charged by the specific provider (usually around 1.7% to 2.0%). The maximum you can pay is capped at the Beitragsbemessungsgrenze (BBG), which is €5,512.50 per month in 2026. If you are employed, your employer pays exactly half of the total premium.

Q.What is the JAEG (Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze)?

The JAEG is the compulsory insurance threshold. In 2026, it is set at €73,800 per year. If you earn less than this, you MUST use public health insurance. If you earn more, you are free to choose between staying in the public system (as a voluntary member) or switching to private health insurance (PKV).

Q.Does public insurance cover my family?

Yes! One of the biggest advantages of the German public system (GKV) is family co-insurance (Familienversicherung). Non-working spouses and children are covered entirely for free under your policy. Private insurance, however, requires you to pay a separate premium for every family member.

Looking for a high-paying role?

Browse verified English-speaking jobs across Germany. Salaries above €73,800 qualify for private insurance.

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