GKV vs PKV: statutory versus private health insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Most employees are automatically enrolled in the statutory system (GKV); the private system (PKV) is only accessible above an income threshold and requires careful consideration.

Key points to understand

GKV (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung): income-based contributions (~14.6% split employer/employee); covers you and dependent family members

GKV (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung): income-based contributions (~14.6% split employer/employee); covers you and dependent family members. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

PKV (private Krankenversicherung): risk-based premiums, better coverage and shorter waits, but switching back to GKV is very difficult

PKV (private Krankenversicherung): risk-based premiums, better coverage and shorter waits, but switching back to GKV is very difficult. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Employees earning above the Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (~€69 300/year in 2024) may choose PKV; most newcomers start with GKV

Employees earning above the Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (~€69 300/year in 2024) may choose PKV; most newcomers start with GKV. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.