Health insurance in Germany for international students
Getting health insurance in Germany as an international student is not just paperwork — it’s your first step to building a safe, secure, and successful student life.
Whether you’re starting a bachelor’s or master’s degree, enrolling in a Studienkolleg, or joining a language course, health insurance is mandatory. Without it, you cannot enroll at a German university or apply for a residence permit.
In this guide, you’ll learn how the German health insurance system works, what your options are as an international student, and how to choose the right plan — all explained in a way that’s easy, clear, and relevant.
Why international students need health insurance in Germany
Germany’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world – but it is built on the principle of universal insurance. That means:
✅ You must be covered from the day you arrive
✅ You cannot enroll in university or apply for your visa extension without it
✅ Doctors and hospitals will refuse to treat you unless you can prove coverage.
Reminder
Health insurance is not optional in Germany, rather it’s legally required. Furthermore, having the wrong type of coverage can delay your studies, your visa, or even your ability to register in the city you live in.
Public vs. private health insurance for students in Germany
Roughly 89% of German residents are insured under the public healthcare system, and the other 11% have opted out for a private scheme.
The choice of your healthcare provider is not one to be taken lightly. Each provider has different offers, prices and conditions. Which choice you should make is as individual as your own circumstance, so you must find the insurance provider and plan that fits your needs.
Understanding the two main types of health insurance in Germany is key to choosing the right one for your situation:
| Feature | Public insurance (gesetzliche) | Private insurance (private) |
|---|---|---|
| Who can access it | Students under 30 enrolled in a degree | Students over 30, language/Studienkolleg students |
| Monthly cost (2025) | ~€110–€125 | €40–€120 (depending on age and plan) |
| Based on… | Flat student rate | Age, medical history, benefits level |
| Switching | Easy to switch to private | Hard or impossible to switch back to public |
| Visa approval | Always accepted | Sometimes rejected for Studienkolleg or prep courses |
| Coverage level | Full standard care, all doctors | Sometimes limited to basic coverage only |
Pro tip
If you’re enrolled in a degree program and under 30 years old, public student insurance (e.g., TK, AOK, DAK) is your best option for affordability, security, and visa approval.
Health insurance requirements for foreign students
According to German law, all foreign students must have health insurance that meets the national standards. You will be asked for proof of valid coverage before you can:
- Enroll at a university
- Apply for or extend your student visa
- Register your address (Anmeldung)
- Access healthcare and medical services
What is accepted:
✅ Public health insurance from a German provider (TK, AOK, etc.)
✅ Private health insurance only if it meets official requirements (ask your university to confirm)
What is not accepted:
❌ Travel insurance (temporary)
❌ Cheap private plans with limited coverage (often used for tourists or freelancers)
Visa tip
For students in language courses or Studienkolleg, private insurance is often your only option — but be sure it’s a certified provider. Otherwise, the immigration office may reject your visa application.
Recommended health insurance providers for students in Germany
Here are three trusted German insurance providers that offer student-friendly, visa-compliant plans:
1. Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)
- Germany’s most popular student insurer
- Excellent English-speaking support
- Easy online application
- Strong digital tools and app
2. AOK
- Broad nationwide coverage
- Helpful in-person support in most major cities
- Competitive student rates
- Flexible plans and digital access
- Known for reliable processing of student documents
- English materials available
Important
You can register online from your home country before arriving — or walk into a local branch once in Germany.
How to apply for student health insurance in Germany
Follow these simple steps to get covered before enrollment:
✅ Step 1: Choose your provider
Use your university’s recommendations or compare the three mentioned above.
✅ Step 2: Apply online or in person
Prepare your documents:
- Passport
- University admission letter
- Proof of residence or address (if available)
✅ Step 3: Receive your insurance certificate
This is called a Versicherungsbescheinigung. You’ll need it for enrollment and your visa.
✅ Step 4: Submit your certificate
Send it to your university AND your Ausländerbehörde (immigration office) as proof of compliance.
Common mistakes international students make
Avoid these common issues to ensure a smooth transition into student life:
❌ Assuming travel insurance is enough — it’s not
❌ Choosing the cheapest plan without checking for visa compliance
❌ Missing enrollment deadlines due to late registration
❌ Forgetting to bring proof of insurance for city registration (Anmeldung)
❌ Not asking about Studienkolleg restrictions — these often require private insurance
Best practice
If you’re unsure, contact your university’s international office or ask edulink for pre-arrival guidance. Getting this right is critical to your first weeks in Germany.
Final thoughts: Make smart choices, protect your future
Health insurance isn’t just a formality — it’s your entry point to German student life.
With the right plan, you’ll avoid legal problems, visa issues, and surprise medical bills.
Start early. Ask questions. Choose a reputable provider.
It’s the most important paperwork you’ll complete — and one of the easiest to get right.
💡 Related reading: Once you’re insured and enrolled, the next big question is: Can you work while studying in Germany? Find out how to do it legally and smartly in our guide: Finding a student job in Germany: A guide for international students to build their future
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