Health insurance for EU citizens in Germany

As an EU citizen, you enjoy special rights in Germany – including access to health insurance . However, your coverage in the event of illness depends largely on how long you are staying in Germany and for what purpose. VISAGUARD provides an overview of the most important regulations.

Short stay: Insured in the country of origin with EHIC or PEB

If you are only staying in Germany temporarily—for example, as a tourist, posted employee, or seasonal worker—you will generally remain covered by your statutory health insurance in your country of origin . It is important that you carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PEB) . These documents entitle you to medical treatment in Germany if necessary (e.g., in the event of an accident, toothache, or during pregnancy). Treatment is only available from statutory health insurance physicians —private practices are not covered.

Longer stay: Forms S1 or S2 as proof

If you are staying in Germany for a longer period, for example as a posted worker or pensioner, the EHIC alone is often no longer sufficient. In these cases, the Form S1 is crucial: It ensures that you are also covered for planned treatments or routine examinations. If you are traveling to Germany specifically for medical treatment, you will need form S2. You can obtain both forms from your health insurance provider in your country of origin.

Relocation of residence to Germany from the EU: Observe insurance requirements

As soon as you officially relocate to Germany, German health insurance is mandatory according to the German Social Code (SGB V) . You must take out either statutory (GKV) or private (PKV) insurance – opting out is not permitted . Employees with an income of less than €73,800 (as of 2024) are generally compulsorily insured in the GKV. But be careful if you register late: The insurance requirement also applies retroactively. Anyone who registers with a health insurance company too late automatically accumulates contribution debts . If in doubt, seek advice early on – for example, from a clearing house or a social association.

Special cases: unemployment, family insurance, need for assistance

Those who become unemployed generally remain insured through their current health insurance provider. Contributions are then paid by the employment agency or job center . In many cases, spouses and children can be covered free of charge ( family insurance ).

Those who are in need of assistance and do not have health insurance may be able to receive benefits under social assistance law – particularly in cases of acute illness, pregnancy or childbirth.

Accident insurance for employees: Automatic protection

As an employee in Germany, you are automatically covered by accident insurance – without additional registration and without paying any contributions. Statutory accident insurance protects you against work-related accidents, occupational diseases, and their consequences. It covers, among other things, medical rehabilitation, professional reintegration, and pension benefits.

Conclusion: Get informed early – avoid insurance gaps

The health insurance regulations for EU citizens in Germany are complex – but well-regulated. It's crucial that you find out about your coverage in a timely manner , especially for longer stays, starting work, or relocating. If you're unsure, advice centers, clearinghouses, and social associations can help.

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