Health· 4 min read
Health insurance: public vs private
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Understand the difference between gesetzlich (public) and privat (private), and how to enrol.
Everyone living in Germany must have health insurance. There are two systems: statutory/public (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV) and private (private Krankenversicherung, PKV).
Public (GKV)
- Contributions are a percentage of your gross salary, split with your employer.
- Family members without income are often covered for free (Familienversicherung).
- Major providers: TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK, Barmenia, etc.
- Same core benefits across providers; differences are in service and extras.
Private (PKV)
- Open to high earners above the income threshold, the self-employed, and civil servants.
- Premiums depend on age and health, not income.
- Can be cheaper when young, but harder to switch back to public later.
Watch out: You usually need proof of health insurance before you can get your residence permit and before you start a job. Sort it out early.
Tip: Employees: when in doubt, start with public (GKV). It's the default, covers your family, and you can compare providers easily online.