Public Health Insurance for a Visa: Additional Contribution for Expats

Health insurance is a legal prerequisite for foreigners living in Germany on a visa. Whether you’re arriving on a work visa, student visa, or a family reunion visa, you’ll need to have adequate health insurance that is valid from the first day of your residence. This health insurance must be recognised under German law, and it often causes problems for students and professionals from Australia, the USA, and the UK.

If you have inadequate coverage or are relying on foreign travel insurance, your visa application may be rejected or delayed. Health insurance is a visa requirement covered under the Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz), §5 and §2. In this article, we’re sharing an overview of the additional contributions you can expect to make to an expat in Germany when relying on public health insurance for your visa. 

Overview: Public (Statutory) Health Insurance in Germany (GKV)

Germany operates with two health insurance systems: statutory health insurance (known as Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, often shortened to “GKV”) and private health insurance (known as Private Krankenversicherung or “PKV”). 90% of German residents have statutory health insurance, with the minimum earning threshold for private health insurance continuing to increase.

Most foreigners who arrive in Germany on an employment or student visa will start with GKV insurance, requiring them to make contributions based on their income. If you fall into this category, you’ll be able to choose from a range of statutory health insurance providers to find one that best suits your needs. 

Under this type of health insurance, the premiums you pay will depend on your income and the type of insurance plan you’ve selected. Basic medication and doctor’s visits are paid directly by your health insurance provider, and your family, including a spouse or children, can be included in your health insurance plan.

This type of health insurance in Germany for foreigners provides coverage for:

• Dental care, but does not include additional services like professional dental cleaning

• Medication and medical aids

• Medical treatment in a hospital setting

• Rehabilitation treatments and services prescribed by a doctor 

• Pregnancy and childbirth-related services

  
  

What Is the “Zusatzbeitrag” (Additional Contribution)?

Each statutory health insurance fund charges an additional contribution rate, known as “Zusatzbeitrag”. This additional contribution is paid on top of the general contribution rate, which is typically 14.6% of your gross income. The additional contribution is usually 0% to 3% of your income with the average Zusatzbeitrag estimated to be 1.7%. 

If you’re on a work visa in Germany, your employer will pay half of the total cost of your public health insurance, including the additional contribution. Additional contribution costs are usually lower for international students, but will vary between providers. 

The additional contribution that you’re expected to pay will vary, depending on the public health insurance fund that you choose. It’s important to select the right one as it’ll impact your monthly net salary, even if it’s only by a small amount.

Choosing Expat Health Insurance for Your Work or Student Visa in Germany

All statutory health insurance funds offer the same core coverage. As a visa applicant or holder, it’s important to ensure you select a public health insurance provider that is legally valid to meet your visa requirements. 

Do you need health insurance that is officially recognised by the German authorities? Our law firm regularly works with Feather Insurance and has had consistently positive experiences. By using our affiliate link, you’ll help support our law blog, designed to provide expats with all the information they need for their German visa application. You’ll also receive an exclusive cashback offer when you use the code “VISAG-15” when purchasing public health insurance through Feather.