Germany has one of Europe's best-resourced healthcare systems, but it works differently from the UK: there is no single free NHS, and health insurance is compulsory for every resident. As a UK expat you must be covered from the day you arrive.
This guide explains the choice between statutory (GKV) and private (PKV) cover, why proof of insurance is needed to register your address and start work, and where international expat policies fit — for Britons living in or moving to Germany.
Healthcare in Germany: how the system works
Public system: Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV).
Germany does not have a single state-run, NHS-style service; instead health cover is delivered through insurance funds. Around 90% of people are in the statutory scheme (GKV) run by non-profit "Krankenkassen" such as TK, AOK and Barmer, with contributions taken from salary, while others hold private insurance (PKV). Both give access to a high-quality network of doctors and hospitals.
Health insurance is compulsory for everyone living in Germany, so as a UK expat you must be covered from the start. Employees usually join the GKV automatically through payroll, while higher earners, the self-employed and many expats can or must take out private cover (PKV). A UK GHIC only helps short visits, and a domestic UK policy will not cover you as a German resident.
Is health insurance mandatory in Germany?
Health insurance is a legal requirement for all residents of Germany — you cannot register your address, start most jobs or renew a residence permit without proof of cover. You are either in the statutory system (GKV) or in private insurance (PKV): employees are usually enrolled in the GKV automatically, while higher earners above the income threshold and the self-employed can opt for PKV. Many expats and newcomers use private or dedicated expat policies to meet the requirement, especially before starting work.
Why British expats take out private cover
For UK expats, private or international cover (PKV or IPMI) can offer shorter waits, private hospital rooms, direct access to specialists and English-speaking service, and it can bridge the gap before a job and GKV membership begin. International policies also add repatriation and cover if you later move on to another country.
What expat health insurance costs in Germany
Germany's healthcare is high quality but not cheap: statutory contributions are a percentage of income, while private premiums are risk-rated by age and health and can rise over time. International expat policies vary widely with age, cover level and area — get a quote rather than assuming a figure.
Good to know before you move
- Health insurance is compulsory for everyone living in Germany.
- You cannot register your address or start most jobs without proof of cover.
- Employees usually join statutory GKV; higher earners and the self-employed can choose private PKV.
- A UK GHIC covers short visits only — it is not resident cover in Germany.
Private hospitals and where Britons settle
Tens of thousands of British nationals live in Germany, many in Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt and around the former garrison towns.
Large private hospital operators include Helios, Asklepios and Sana, alongside Germany's renowned university hospitals (Universitätskliniken).
Popular with British expats: Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne.
How a UK broker helps expats in Germany
International private medical insurance is a specialist market, and the right policy depends on your visa, your age, your medical history and how much time you spend outside Germany. A UK-based specialist broker can compare the international insurers available through its service, check that a policy meets any local or visa requirement, and explain what is — and is not — covered before you commit.
A broker can compare only the insurers and policies available through its service, and may receive commission or charge a fee. Ask for the insurer panel, the remuneration disclosure and the total price. Requesting a quote is free and puts you under no obligation to buy.
Expat health insurance in Germany: FAQs
Is health insurance mandatory in Germany?
Yes. Every resident of Germany must have health insurance by law, either statutory (GKV) or private (PKV). You will need proof of cover to register your address, start a job or renew a residence permit. There is no option to go without.
Should a UK expat choose GKV or private (PKV) insurance in Germany?
Employees are usually placed in the statutory GKV automatically, with contributions taken from salary. Higher earners above the income threshold, the self-employed and some expats can opt for private PKV, which can offer shorter waits and extra comfort but is risk-rated by age and health. The right choice depends on your job, income and family situation.
Does my UK health insurance cover me in Germany?
A domestic UK policy is built for UK residents and will not satisfy Germany's compulsory insurance rule or cover you as a resident. You will need German statutory or private cover, or an international expat policy. A UK GHIC only helps with short visits.
Can I use my GHIC or EHIC as an expat in Germany?
No. A UK GHIC is for tourists and short stays and does not meet the legal requirement to hold resident health insurance in Germany. As a resident you must join the GKV or take out private cover.
How much does health insurance cost in Germany?
Statutory GKV contributions are a percentage of your income, split with your employer if you are employed. Private PKV and international policies are priced by age, health and cover level and can change over time. Compare quotes to see what suits your circumstances.
Other expat destinations
Visa, residency and insurance rules change and vary by individual circumstances. This guide is general information, not personal or regulated advice — always confirm the current requirements for your situation before you rely on them. Health Insurance UK is an information and lead-generation service, not an insurer or broker.