Cancelling health insurance as a foreigner in Germany: How it works

Foreign nationals with statutory health insurance in Germany can change or cancel their health insurance provider under certain conditions . Whether changing within the statutory system, switching to private health insurance, or moving abroad – specific rules and deadlines apply that you should be aware of. Here you'll learn how to correctly cancel your statutory health insurance in Germany – and what you should pay particular attention to.

Foreigners with visa: Timely cancellation of health insurance

In principle, you can cancel your statutory health insurance with two months' notice effective at the end of the month ( Section 175, Paragraph 4 of the Social Code Book V ). This requires that you have been insured with your current health insurance provider for at least twelve months. Exceptions may apply, for example, if you change employers—in this case, the commitment period is waived. You do not have to give notice of cancellation yourself: The new health insurance provider will take care of this for you once you submit your application for membership.

Even if the additional contribution increases, you have a special right of termination. This means you can change health insurance providers without having to adhere to the twelve-month commitment period ( Section 175, Paragraph 4 of the Social Code Book V ). However, the regular notice period of two months to the end of the month still applies. Important: The notice of termination must be given no later than the month in which the higher contribution first applies.

When you have to terminate your employment as a foreigner

In certain cases, simply choosing a new health insurance provider isn't enough. If you leave the statutory health insurance system entirely, for example, by switching to private health insurance or moving abroad, you must cancel your subscription yourself. You can cancel your subscription in writing or digitally—many health insurance providers offer their own online forms for this purpose. However, for the cancellation to take effect, you must provide proof of your new coverage (e.g., a certificate from your private health insurance provider).

When a change can be problematic

Changing health insurance providers can also have disadvantages —especially if you've already applied for expensive services. If you're currently undergoing psychotherapy, planning rehabilitation, or applying for assistive devices (e.g., a wheelchair, hearing aid), the new insurance provider may reconsider whether the services will be covered. While ongoing therapies may not be interrupted, a new application from the therapist is required. Problems can also arise with assistive devices if the new insurance provider works with different contract partners. In such cases, you should definitely check with your new insurance provider before switching.

Visa cases: How to change health insurance providers

If you want to change your health insurance provider as a foreigner, you must proceed as follows:

• Choose a new health insurance provider: First, you must choose a new health insurance provider that is permissible under your residence permit .

• Fill out the membership application: Many health insurance companies offer online applications with electronic signatures.

• Use the switching service: The new health insurance company will cancel your old membership and confirm the switch to you.

• Inform your employer: The new insurance status will be transmitted automatically, but please inform your employer as a precaution.

• Inform the immigration authorities: Inform the immigration authorities that you have changed your health insurance provider.

Conclusion: statutory health insurance cancels foreigners

Changing statutory health insurance in Germany is relatively easy – especially if you remain in the system. Cancellation is automatically processed by the new health insurance provider, unless you leave the statutory system completely. However, pay attention to the correct deadlines, clarify any special care situations in advance – and always ensure seamless insurance coverage – otherwise, you risk losing your residency status (see Section 2 Paragraph 3 of the Residence Act ).

Do you need insurance that's recognized by the authorities? Our law firm uses Feather Insurance and has consistently had positive experiences with it. If you purchase your insurance through Feather's insurance brokers using this link, you'll support our firm's blog. Use the code " VISAG-15 " to receive additional cashback when purchasing insurance through Feather.