Health insurance for newcomers to Germany
From day one in Germany, health insurance is mandatory. Different rules apply if you arrived in the past year — here's what changes for international residents.
Five things every newcomer should know
You need cover from day one
Mandatory from the day you register your address (Anmeldung) or start work. Travel insurance does not satisfy the requirement.
EU vs. non-EU rules differ briefly
EU citizens can use EHIC for emergencies in transition. Non-EU citizens cannot — they need German cover from day one.
Most visas tie you to one option
Job seeker, freelance and language student visas explicitly require either public or specific 'expat-style' tariffs. Read your visa requirements before signing.
English support is available
TK (public) and Ottonova (private) lead on English service. DKV and Allianz also offer English service in metro areas.
The 1-year switch rule for new hires
If you start a job in Germany already above the income threshold, you can opt into private after just 1 year — not 3.
Common questions
Related guides
Two more pages that come up most often when people are at this stage.
Full newcomer guide
Long-form guide on health insurance for international residents.
Learn moreEligibility full breakdown
Three eligibility paths — applies equally to EU and non-EU.
Learn moreFor your visa
Cover that meets visa requirements.
Learn moreInternational freelancers
Cover for self-employed newcomers.
Learn moreTravel insurance
Short-term cover for visitors.
Learn moreOutside public and private?
International incoming plans for over 55s, declined applicants, job-seekers and returnees.
Learn more