Health insurance in Germany
Health insurance is an important aspect of everyone's life in Germany. It is mandatory for everyone who is in the country and provides access to high-quality medical services. It is important to pay attention to the legal aspects of the insurance process, because the right choice between public and private insurance can affect your financial costs and access to medical services. Legal assistance can be useful when you need to navigate complex rules and conditions.
Legal stages of obtaining health insurance in Germany
Applying for health insurance in Germany includes several key stages, such as:
- Legal advice on health insurance in Germany.
- Choosing the type of insurance: People with an annual income above a certain threshold (in 2024, this threshold is 66,600 euros) can choose between public and private insurance. Everyone else is required to take out insurance with one of the public insurance companies. A health insurance lawyer in Germany can help with the application process.
- Applying for insurance: To apply for insurance, you must submit an application to the insurance company. When applying to a public insurance company, the process is usually quicker and easier. For private insurance, additional information about health status and income may be required.
- Contract conclusion: After submitting an application and providing all necessary documents, the insurance comes into effect. At this stage, health insurance lawyers in Germany carefully study all the terms of the contract in order to avoid possible misunderstandings in the future.
Each stage requires attention to detail, and it is qualified lawyers who help you go through this process quickly and safely, minimizing the risk of errors and misunderstandings.
Under what conditions can the service of obtaining health insurance in Germany be provided?
The process of health insurance in Germany can be provided under the following conditions:
- Legal residence in Germany: To obtain health insurance, you must have a legal right of residence in Germany.
- Official employment or training: Persons officially employed or studying in Germany are entitled to receive statutory health insurance.
- Residence registration: All residents must register their residence in Germany in order to have access to health insurance.
- No significant illnesses (for private insurance): Private insurance companies may refuse to insure or charge high prices for insurance for people with serious chronic illnesses.
Taking into account these conditions is an important step towards successfully applying for insurance.
Under what conditions can the service of obtaining German health insurance not be provided?

Illegal stay: People who are in Germany illegally or without a visa cannot obtain health insurance.

No registration at the place of residence: No registration makes it impossible to obtain state insurance.

Refusal by a private insurance company: Private companies have the right to refuse insurance based on the risk associated with your health condition. For example, serious illnesses may result in a denial or a significant increase in the cost of your insurance policy.
How to independently obtain health insurance in Germany?
You can figure out the German health insurance system by following a few simple steps:
- Learning about the laws: Familiarize yourself with the main laws governing health insurance in Germany, such as the "Sozialgesetzbuch V" (SGB V) for statutory insurance and the "Versicherungsvertragsgesetz" (VVG) for private insurance. Find out the list of documents for health insurance in Germany.
- Consult with an insurance broker: Specialists will help you choose the best insurance option based on your status and health condition.
- Compare insurance companies: Use online platforms to compare the terms and prices of different insurance companies. This will help you choose the best option.
- Seek legal assistance: In difficult situations, such as refusal of an insurance insurance company or problems with payments, it is recommended to contact a lawyer specializing in health insurance.
However, in case of complex situations, in particular, refusal of insurance, it is important to contact a lawyer who will help resolve the issue and find the best insurance option.
Frequently asked questions about German health insurance
Question
What documents are required for health insurance in Germany?
Answer
The following documents are required for health insurance in Germany: A passport or identity card to prove the applicant's identity. Proof of residence registration (Anmeldung), confirming the address in Germany. Income documents, such as an employment contract or tax documents, to determine the level of insurance premiums. A health certificate may be required in some cases, such as when taking out private insurance. You must also fill out an insurance application with the chosen insurance company.
Question
How to find a health insurance lawyer in Germany?
Answer
To find a health insurance lawyer in Germany, start by searching online using keywords such as "health insurance lawyer" and the name of the city. You can also look at specialized websites and lawyer databases. It is a good idea to check whether the lawyer offers a free consultation to better understand your situation. Finally, contact your health insurer for recommendations of lawyers familiar with their policies and processes.
Question
How much does health insurance legal advice cost in Germany?
Answer
The cost of health insurance legal advice in Germany depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the experience of the lawyer. Some lawyers may offer a flat rate for the first consultation. For more complex cases, the cost may increase significantly. It is also worth considering that some law firms offer free initial consultations.
What determines the cost of obtaining health insurance in Germany?
The price of the service for obtaining health insurance in Germany may depend on several factors. Firstly, it is the complexity and scope of work, because if you need a consultation with a detailed analysis of insurance options and assistance in filling out documents, the cost of services will be higher. The qualification and experience of the lawyer also affect the cost: the services of highly qualified specialists are usually more expensive. In addition, the cost may be affected by urgency, region, as well as additional services, such as translation of documents or support when submitting an application.
ConclusionHealth insurance in Germany is mandatory for all persons residing in the country and provides access to important medical services. However, in order for the choice of insurance to be optimal, it is necessary to take into account various legal aspects. Contacting a lawyer will help to avoid mistakes when applying for insurance, ensure the correct execution of all legal formalities and help find the most advantageous health insurance options according to your status and needs.