Insurance for expats: What types of insurance are available for expats?

Insurance for expats with visas: Which coverages make sense?

Expats coming to Germany not only have to worry about visas, housing, and jobs – insurance is also a key consideration. Without appropriate insurance coverage, high costs can be incurred in an emergency, and a residence permit may not be issued without health insurance. At the same time, the German insurance market is complex. Which policies are mandatory, which are advisable, and which are unnecessary? VISAGUARD provides an overview of the most important insurance policies for expats with visas in Germany.

Health insurance: mandatory and options

Health insurance is mandatory for foreigners in Germany as part of securing their livelihood ( Section 5, Paragraph 1, No. 1 of the Residence Act ). Expats usually have the choice between statutory (GKV) and private health insurance (PKV). Foreigners who enter into employment are automatically insured under statutory insurance – for example, with providers such as TK, Barmer, AOK, or DAK. Those who earn above a certain threshold or come to Germany as self-employed can also take out private insurance. For short-term stays or during the visa process , expat health insurance or incoming insurance may be an option – this covers basic costs but is not sufficient in the long term.

Additional dental and travel insurance: Useful additions

Statutory health insurance covers many services, but not all. Dental treatment, in particular, often entails high out-of-pocket costs. Supplemental dental insurance can be useful in this case. Those who travel frequently—for business or pleasure—also benefit from travel insurance, which can cover medical care as well as trip cancellation or lost luggage. Expats in Germany with a visa often purchase supplemental insurance to ensure complete coverage.

Liability and household contents insurance: everyday protection

One of the most important voluntary insurance policies in Germany is private liability insurance . It covers you if you accidentally cause harm to another person—for example, dropping an expensive cell phone or causing a bicycle accident. Home contents insurance, which covers damage caused by fire, burglary, or water damage in your home, is also advisable.

Mobility, pets and assets: Additional policies for special life situations

Anyone who rides a bike in Germany can protect themselves against theft and damage with bicycle insurance . Dog owners are required to have dog liability insurance in many federal states – this provides cover if their dog injures people or property. Those who want to ensure their pets are well cared for can also take out pet health insurance. For longer-term plans, consider occupational disability insurance (in case of inability to work), life insurance (for survivors), or private pension insurance for retirement planning. Legal expenses insurance can also be helpful, for example, in labor disputes.

Conclusion: Needs analysis instead of overinsurance

Not every insurance policy is necessary for every situation. Expats should consider early on how long they will stay in Germany, what profession they pursue, and which risks are important to them. Some insurance policies, such as health insurance or dog liability insurance, are mandatory by law. Others—like liability insurance or legal protection—are voluntary but highly recommended.

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