What is the Minimum Health Insurance Contribution in Germany?

It is mandatory to have health insurance coverage when you’re applying for or renewing a visa to live or work in Germany. As a visa applicant, it’s important to know that there is a minimum health insurance contribution that you’ll need to make, even if you have low or no income. Misunderstandings around expat health insurance are one of the most common reasons for visa delays and rejections. 

Whether you’re an expat changing employers, a new graduate, or considering a family reunification visa, you’ll need to understand the minimum and maximum health insurance contributions that you’re expected to make. In this article, we’re giving a brief overview of how this minimum contribution is calculated and the most common mistakes foreigners make.

Public Health Insurance in Germany: How Contributions Normally Work

Germany’s statutory health insurance system is regulated by federal law, with contributions determined by your income. These contributions consist of a general contribution rate of 14.6% of your income, plus an additional contribution rate (Zusatzbeitrag) set by the provider, which averages at 1.7%. These costs are split with your employer, or you will be liable for the total cost if you’re self-employed.

What Is the Minimum Health Insurance Contribution?

The minimum contribution is the lowest monthly amount you’ll pay for your expat health insurance, even if you earn a lower salary. This minimum contribution is set in accordance with the income floor of €1,318 per month, meaning you can expect to pay around €230 to €250+ per month for your insurance.

As a foreigner in Germany, it’s important to understand how the minimum health insurance contribution works, as it isn’t optional and applies regardless of your nationality. You’ll need to ensure you can make at least the minimum contribution to maintain your health insurance coverage, in line with your visa requirements.

How the Minimum Contribution is Calculated for Expat Health Insurance

Contributions are based on a legally defined minimum assessment income, which currently sits at €1318.33 per month. This minimum income amount is set by law, so you’ll still have to pay that associated contribution, even if you make a lower salary. 

The minimum income threshold changes annually, but you can calculate the contribution using this equation: Minimum assessment income x (14.6% + Zusatzbeitrag). 

The additional contribution fee (Zusatzbeitrag) set by your chosen health insurance provider will determine the actual minimum amount you pay. 

Who Typically Pays the Minimum Contribution?

Only a small number of visa holders in Germany are likely to pay the minimum contribution for their expat health insurance. Job seekers after graduation, professionals changing jobs, freelancers, and unemployed family members who are not eligible for family insurance may fall into the minimum contribution category.

Common Mistakes Foreigners Make Regarding Minimum Contributions

Health insurance is one of the visa requirements that young professionals and expats often struggle to navigate. This results in common mistakes during the visa application process and throughout their residence. 

It’s a popular misconception that having no income means you won’t have to pay any insurance costs, and expats often make the mistake of cancelling their insurance during a period of unemployment. Missing a payment deadline can put your account into arrears and potentially risk your visa, as well as failing to inform your insurer of any change to your status. 

Affordable and Legally Recognised Expat Health Insurance in Germany

Do you need health insurance that is 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.