Public Health Insurance (GKV) for Expats

Public Health Insurance (GKV) is the main health protection for about 90% of people in Germany. But "public" does not mean "the same everywhere." In 2026, prices are rising, and there are big differences between providers. In my Remote consultation, I show you how to find the fund that fits your life and your budget.

Reading time: about 5 minutes

At a glance:

Maria's Story: Why a health fund check is worth real money

Maria works as a marketing expert. She had been with the same big health fund since her first job. "I thought they were all the same," she told me. Then we looked at her fixed costs.

Maria's fund had increased its extra charge to 2.2%. In our comparison, we found another fund that only charged 0.9%. For Maria, this meant saving nearly 400 Euros per year – net!

But it got even better: Maria likes alternative medicine. Her old fund paid nothing for it. Her new fund now pays for three osteopathy sessions a year and gives her 150 Euros back for her gym membership. Maria says today: "The switch took five minutes online. Now I have more money and better care. I should have done this sooner!"

What makes the difference? for Expats in Germany

In Germany, you can choose from over 70 statutory health funds. The details matter:

Extra Charge (Zusatzbeitrag): This varies by fund and changes your net income.
Extra Benefits: Coverage for osteopathy, professional teeth cleaning, or travel vaccines.
Bonus Programs: Rewards for healthy habits like gym visits or check-ups.
Service: Is there a good app? How fast do they help you? Do they speak English?

GKV as a Base – And then?

As your insurance broker, I see public insurance as a solid base. To get the care of a private patient, we often add supplementary insurance.

Whether it is high-end Dental Insurance, Sick Pay Insurance to protect your income, or Inpatient Insurance for a private room – we build the protection that fits your life and your budget.

Requirements for Expats

Valid German Address (Anmeldung)
German Bank Account (IBAN)
Valid Residence Permit (for at least 12 months for some providers)
Proof of income

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why are the prices so different between funds?

Each health fund manages its own money. While basic benefits are the same, the financial health of the fund decides the extra charge. Switching to a cheaper fund can save you hundreds of Euros each year.

What extra benefits do they offer?

Many funds offer extra things like professional teeth cleaning, osteopathy, travel vaccines, or extra check-ups for cancer or heart health.

How do bonus programs work?

Funds reward you for being healthy. If you go to the gym, do preventive check-ups, or don't smoke, you can get cash rewards or money for health gear like a smartwatch.

What are optional tariffs?

Optional tariffs let you customize your plan. You can choose a deductible to save on monthly costs, or get money back if you don't use any services for a whole year.

Do they pay for Yoga or fitness courses?

Yes, most funds pay for certified prevention courses twice a year (often 75-100% of the cost). This includes things like stress relief, nutrition, and fitness.

Who is covered for free in family insurance?

Spouses and children can often be insured for free if they don't earn much money themselves. This is one of the biggest benefits of the public system for families.

Price Transparency

In Germany, insurance premiums are regulated by law. This means you pay the same price whether you buy directly from an insurance company or through a broker like me. My expert advice and personal support are already included in the premium – there are no extra costs for you.

Legal Note: The information provided here is for general educational purposes and does not count as personal advice or a binding offer. Insurance conditions may vary. For tailored protection, a digital consultation via video call is required.

Public Health Insurance (GKV): The Foundation of your Health for Expats in Germany