Germany Travel Insurance: Coverage Types and Options
Suppose you wish to visit Germany anytime soon. Then, you must obtain Germany Travel Insurance before moving to Germany.
Germany is one of the largest and safest countries in the world. Yet, you must protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances. Little injury or headache can turn out to be a problem. Unfortunately, so many travelers seem to be careless when it comes to the country’s weather or what they are eating.
For this reason, the German government has made it compulsory for all travelers to have travel health insurance.
Germany has one of the best health care systems in the world. All nationals who want to reside or immigrate to Canada must obtain health insurance, as do tourists.
This guide explains the process of obtaining Germany Travel Insurance, the types of the German health system, and where foreigners factor into it.
What is Germany Travel Insurance?
Germany Travel Insurance is a compulsory health insurance plan for visitors that covers medical needs when you are in Germany. This insurance has a minimum coverage of €30,000, which is also valid in other Schengen countries apart from Germany.
Is Germany Travel Insurance Mandatory?
Yes, if you are seeking a Schengen visa for Germany, travel insurance is compulsory. You have to present travel health insurance and your visa application evidence.
However, every German resident, both citizen or expatriate, must have valid health insurance since the German health care system needs it.
Suppose you are from an EU/EEA country or you are not included in a Germany visa. In that case, you may be considered to obtain travel insurance for Germany for some reasons:
- You need to show proof of travel health insurance at the port of entry in Germany.
- It is important because you don’t know what may happen when traveling. Although Germany’s health care system is good, the healthcare prices can be high for certain third-country nationals. However, if you have travel health insurance, it can reduce the cost of any medical expenses that may occur.
Additionally, travel insurance does not only cover medical expenses alone. The insurance plan also includes trip cancellation, delayed flight, and loss of personal items.
What Does Germany Travel Insurance Cover?
What Germany travel insurance cover depends on the plan which you applied for. However, most plans include the following;
- Medical treatment: The number of coverage depends on the plan applied for. However, most Schengen travel insurance plans cover doctor consultations, hospitalization, emergency treatment, surgery, etc.
- Missed flight: If you missed your flight for some important reason, such as delayed time or canceled schedule, the insurance company will cover any related expenses.
- Repatriation of remains when death occurs.
- Lost, stolen, or damaged possessions.
What Are the Best 4 Germany Travel Insurance Options?
Germany’s healthcare system is undoubtedly one of the best in the world. It is known to be a leading country in health care. There are about 2,000 hospitals in Germany.
Both citizens and residents have lots of options when it has to do with health insurance. These include;
- Public government-regulated public insurance.
- Private insurance from a German company.
- Private insurance from an international company.
- A mix of 1&2 or 1&3.
How Much Does Germany Travel Insurance Cost?
Germany Travel Insurance costs are not usually the same, depending on the plan you are applying for. The cost of German travel insurance includes the following:
- Your age: The older you are, the increases how much travel insurance companies will charge you.
- Coverage limits: You will pay per the coverage limit.
- Duration of your stay: The longer you stay determines how much you will pay.
However, PROVISIT-VISUM is best for foreign nationals planning to live in Germany for up to 180 days. If your plan to stay in Germany will last up to two years, you are advised to purchase PROVISIT instead, which also meets the required coverage of 30,000 EUR. PROVISIT-VISUM and PROVISIT are the best for foreigners who want to move to Germany.
German Travel Health Insurance Requirements
To obtain German health insurance, you need to meet certain requirements. Germany being a Schengen country, visitors must obtain travel health insurance that’s in line with Schengen requirements. The German health insurance must include;
- It should have a minimum coverage of at least €30,000 per person.
- Cover all other Schengen Area countries.
- All the time you will spend must be covered.
- Unexpected medical expenses must be included.
Is There Free Healthcare in Germany?
No, Germany healthcare is not free. Technically, no country runs free healthcare, and you somehow have to pay for your medication. In Germany, residents are expected to pay for health insurance every month.
Both those that are sick and those that are not paying for health insurance. However, if you fall sick and need a doctor’s attention, your bills will be partially covered by your health insurance.
Public vs. Private German Health Insurance
There are two types of health insurance in Germany: public health insurance and private health insurance.
Public Health Insurance in Germany
Most foreign nationals who live in Germany for a very long time have to register for public health insurance. Some of the important things to consider when applying for public health insurance include;
#1. Cost
The cost of German health insurance depends on your income. The cost is between 4.6% and 15.6% of your monthly salary. Therefore, the level of your salary determines how much your health insurance will cost.
#2. Your employer pays half of your contributions
When employed, your employer will pay for half of your bills and then remove the other half from your salary. So, approximately 7% – 8% of your earnings go to your health insurance.
#3. Equal coverage
The fact that some people who receive a higher salary pay more doesn’t mean they will get better treatment. Regardless of your age or income, the coverage is the same.
#4. You can include your dependents on your insurance
Your spouse or children can be included on your health insurance if they are unemployed or has a low income.
#6. Who can opt-out
When your income has increased, you can opt out from public to private health insurance. However, those with income less than € 59,000 can not opt-out.
Private Health Insurance in Germany
This plan is eligible for individuals with an income higher than €59,000 per year who can choose private health insurance in Germany instead of public health insurance. Some of the features of private health insurance include;
#1. It can be cheaper if you are young and healthy
Private health insurance in Germany is mostly a cheaper option for younger people. It also functions much like private health insurance in all other countries.
#2. It is more expensive the older you are
Private health insurance companies charge older people more because of the high risk of health problems.
#3. You may not be covered for pre-existing conditions
Some private health insurance companies may not cover any conditions before you purchased the policy.
#4. You may not be able to get back on public health insurance
Once you have opted out of public insurance, you can not return until your monthly salary exceeds € 59,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which travel insurance is best for Germany?
The best travel insurance for Germany will vary depending on your individual needs and budget. However, some of Germany’s most popular travel insurance providers include World Nomads, Allianz Global Assistance, and Travel Guard. It is important to do your research before purchasing travel insurance, as each provider offers different coverage and benefits.
Do I need travel insurance to go to Germany?
You may not need travel insurance to go to Germany. Still, it is always a good idea to have some form of travel insurance in an emergency. Travel insurance can help protect you from unexpected costs if something happens while traveling.
Is health insurance required for German visa?
Health insurance is not required for a German visa, but it is highly recommended. Without health insurance, you could be responsible for the cost of any medical treatment you may need while in Germany.
Is dental care free in Germany?
Yes, dental care is free in Germany. All citizens are entitled to basic dental care at no cost, and more extensive treatments are also available at low cost. Dental care is considered a fundamental right in Germany, and the government invests heavily in the sector to ensure everyone has access to quality care.
Do visitors get free healthcare in Germany?
Yes, visitors to Germany are entitled to free healthcare under the same conditions as German citizens. This includes necessary treatment for illness or injury, preventive care, and maternity care.
Conclusion
Germany Travel Insurance is not just a pass to travel to Germany. Still, for the citizen who needs a visa to Germany, it is a strict requirement to obtain a German visa. Therefore, you must get your Germany Travel Insurance anytime you visit Germany.
