International Health Insurance – Germany – Foreign Workers Insurance

1. What is international health insurance and why do foreign workers in Germany need it?

International health insurance is coverage that provides medical care to individuals when they are traveling or living abroad. It is specifically designed for people who are not permanent residents of the country where they are receiving healthcare.

Foreign workers in Germany need international health insurance because they are not covered by the country’s public health insurance system. This means that if they become ill or injured while working in Germany, they will have to pay for their own medical expenses unless they have an alternative form of coverage like international health insurance.

2. What does international health insurance typically cover for foreign workers in Germany?

International health insurance typically covers a range of medical expenses for foreign workers in Germany. This may include:
– Hospitalization costs, including room and board charges
– Outpatient care, such as visits to a doctor or specialist
– Prescription medication costs
– Emergency medical treatment
– Medical evacuation and repatriation (if necessary)
– Pre-existing conditions (in some cases)
– Maternity care and childbirth (in some cases)
– Preventative care, such as vaccinations and routine check-ups

The exact coverage offered may vary depending on the specific policy and provider chosen by the foreign worker. It is important for individuals to carefully review their policy to understand what is covered and any exclusions or limitations that may apply.

3. How can foreign workers in Germany find the right international health insurance?
There are several steps potential foreign workers can take to find the right international health insurance:
1. Research different providers: First, individuals should research different providers and compare their plans, coverage options, pricing, customer reviews, and other factors.
2. Consider their needs: Foreign workers should consider their specific needs when choosing a plan. For example, do they need maternity coverage? Will they be participating in high-risk activities that may require additional coverage?
3. Review policy details: It is important to carefully review the policy details before making a decision. This includes understanding deductibles, coverage limits, exclusions, and any other factors that may impact the coverage provided.
4. Seek advice from a professional: Those who are unsure of what to look for or need help deciding on a policy can seek advice from a professional insurance broker or consultant.
5. Purchase before arrival: Foreign workers should consider purchasing international health insurance before arriving in Germany to ensure they are covered from the start of their stay.

It is also recommended to confirm that the chosen international health insurance is accepted by medical providers in Germany before making a final decision.

2. How does the German healthcare system work for foreign workers and is it mandatory to have health insurance in Germany?


Germany has a universal healthcare system that is funded through a combination of employer and employee contributions, as well as taxes. Foreign workers are required to have health insurance in Germany, regardless of their employment status or nationality.

If you are employed in Germany, you will be automatically enrolled in the public health insurance system, known as the Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV). This requires both you and your employer to pay monthly contributions based on your income. If your monthly salary exceeds a certain threshold, you may be eligible to opt for private health insurance instead.

If you are self-employed or have a high income, you may also choose to opt for private health insurance (Private Krankenversicherung – PKV) instead of public insurance. Private insurance offers more flexibility and may provide additional services not covered by public insurance.

If you are from another EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access healthcare services in Germany for temporary stays. However, it is recommended that you also have additional travel health insurance for any unexpected medical expenses.

Overall, having health insurance in Germany is mandatory for all residents and failure to have adequate coverage can result in fines or difficulties with obtaining a visa or residence permit.

3. What are the differences between private and public health insurance options for foreign workers in Germany?


Private health insurance is available for foreign workers in Germany who earn an annual salary above a certain limit (currently €62,550 per year). It offers more flexible coverage and may have lower premiums than public health insurance. However, it often requires co-payments for treatments and medications.

Public health insurance, on the other hand, is mandatory for all employees earning less than the salary threshold or working in specific industries such as civil service. It offers comprehensive coverage for medical treatment, including necessary medications and preventive care. The premiums are based on income but are usually shared between the employee and employer.

Some key differences between private and public health insurance options for foreign workers in Germany include:

1. Cost: Private health insurance may offer lower premiums compared to public health insurance but often require higher out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles and co-pays.

2. Coverage: Private health insurance generally offers more comprehensive coverage options, including access to alternative treatments and additional services like dental care, whereas public health insurance mainly covers essential medical services.

3. Eligibility: Private health insurance is available to high-income earners, while public health insurance is mandatory for low- to middle-income earners or those working in certain fields.

4. Flexibility: Private health insurance allows individuals to customize their coverage according to their needs, whereas public health insurance offers standardized coverage plans.

5. Access to healthcare providers: With private health insurance, individuals can choose their healthcare providers without restrictions, whereas public health insurance limits access to doctors within its network.

6. Portability: Public health insurance remains valid if an individual switches employers or becomes self-employed; however, private hea

4. Are pre-existing conditions covered by international health insurance in Germany?


Pre-existing conditions may be covered by international health insurance in Germany, but it depends on the specific policy and provider. Some plans may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, while others may offer some coverage after a waiting period. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of an international health insurance policy before purchasing to ensure that it meets your specific needs and provides adequate coverage for any pre-existing conditions.

5. Can foreign workers choose their own doctors and hospitals with international health insurance in Germany?


Yes, foreign workers with international health insurance in Germany can choose their own doctors and hospitals. Some insurance plans may have a network of preferred providers where the coverage may be higher, but the insured individual has the freedom to seek medical care from any licensed provider.

6. Is dental care included in international health insurance for foreign workers in Germany?

In most cases, basic dental care (such as check-ups and fillings) is not included in international health insurance plans for foreign workers in Germany. However, some plans may offer optional coverage for dental care at an additional cost. It is important to carefully review the details of any international health insurance plan to determine what dental services are covered. Additionally, many employers in Germany offer supplementary dental insurance as part of their employee benefits package.

7. Are there any waiting periods for coverage when obtaining international health insurance as a foreign worker in Germany?


It depends on the insurance provider and the specific policy. In general, there may be a waiting period of 3-6 months for pre-existing conditions before coverage begins. However, emergency care is usually covered immediately. It is important to carefully review the policy terms and conditions to understand any waiting periods for coverage.

8. What is the typical cost of international health insurance for foreign workers in Germany?


The cost of international health insurance for foreign workers in Germany can vary greatly depending on factors such as age, coverage level, and pre-existing conditions. On average, the cost can range from 50-200 euros per month. Some companies may offer a group discount for employees, while others may require employees to cover the full cost themselves. It is best to research and compare different insurance providers to find the best option for individual circumstances.

9. Do policyholders have access to emergency medical services while traveling outside of Germany with their international health insurance?


This depends on the specific policy and the insurance provider. Some international health insurance policies may offer coverage for emergency medical services while traveling outside of Germany, but this may be subject to certain limitations and exclusions. Policyholders should review their specific policy documents or contact their insurance provider for more information on their coverage while traveling. It is also important to always carry any necessary documentation or contact information for your insurance provider when traveling outside of your home country.

10. Are maternity care and childbirth covered by international health insurance for foreign workers in Germany?


Yes, maternity care and childbirth are typically covered by international health insurance for foreign workers in Germany. This may include prenatal care, labor and delivery, postnatal care, and any necessary follow-up appointments or treatments related to the pregnancy.

11. How long can a foreign worker stay covered under an international health insurance policy while working in Germany?


The duration of coverage for a foreign worker under an international health insurance policy will depend on the terms and conditions of their specific policy. Some policies may have a maximum coverage period, while others may offer unlimited coverage. It is important to review the details of your policy to understand how long you will be covered while working in Germany.

12. Can dependents of a foreign worker be included under their international health insurance policy while living in Germany?


Yes, dependents of a foreign worker can typically be included under their international health insurance policy while living in Germany. However, the specifics may vary depending on the insurance provider and the type of policy. It is recommended to check with the specific insurance company for more details on adding dependents to the policy. Additionally, some employers may have specific guidelines for covering dependents under their employees’ international health insurance policies.

13. Does international health insurance cover prescription medications for foreign workers living and working in Germany?


It depends on the specific insurance plan and coverage chosen. Some international health insurance plans may cover prescription medications for foreign workers living and working in Germany, while others may not. It is important to carefully review the details of the insurance plan before enrolling to understand what is covered and what is not.

14. Can a foreign worker switch between private and public health insurance during their time living and working in Germany?


Yes, a foreign worker in Germany can switch between private and public health insurance during their time living and working in Germany. However, there may be certain requirements or restrictions depending on the specific situation of the individual. For example, if a foreign worker’s income falls below a certain threshold, they may be required to switch from private to public health insurance. It is important for individuals to research their options and consult with an insurance advisor or their employer to determine the best course of action for their specific needs.

15. Are there any tax benefits or deductions available for purchasing international health insurance as a foreign worker in Germany?


Yes, there are tax benefits and deductions available for purchasing international health insurance as a foreign worker in Germany. These include:

1. Premiums paid for international health insurance may be tax-deductible as work-related expenses if they are required by the employer or mandated by German law.

2. If an expat is self-employed or a freelancer in Germany, the premiums paid for international health insurance can be deducted from their taxable income as business expenses.

3. Some employers in Germany offer private health insurance as part of their employee benefits package, which can also provide tax advantages.

4. Contributions to certain types of international health insurance plans may be eligible for special tax benefits under the German Income Tax Act (Einkommensteuergesetz).

5. In some cases, contributions made to an international health insurance plan may also qualify for tax deductions in the expat’s home country, depending on their country’s tax laws.

It is recommended that foreign workers consult with a qualified tax advisor or accountant to determine their specific eligibility for these tax benefits and deductions.

16. What happens if a foreign worker becomes unemployed while living and working in Germany with an international health insurance policy?


If a foreign worker becomes unemployed while living and working in Germany with an international health insurance policy, they will need to look into their policy to see if it covers them during unemployment. Some international health insurance policies may continue to cover the individual for a certain period of time, while others may require them to switch to a different type of insurance or obtain coverage through the German public health insurance system. It is important for individuals to carefully review their policy and speak with their insurance provider in this situation.

Additionally, in Germany, all residents are required to have health insurance coverage, so it is important for foreign workers who become unemployed to take swift action in obtaining appropriate coverage. Failure to do so can result in fines and penalties. The individual should also inform their employer and unemployment office as soon as possible about their change in employment status.

17. Will pre-existing conditions be excluded from coverage if a foreign worker changes their international health insurance provider while still living and working in Germany?


It is possible that pre-existing conditions may be excluded from coverage when changing international health insurance providers while living and working in Germany. This will depend on the specific terms and conditions of the new insurance policy. It is important to carefully review the policy before making any changes to ensure that all necessary medical needs will be covered. Additionally, it may be beneficial to consult with a insurance representative or healthcare professional for further guidance in this matter.

18. Is there a network of preferred healthcare providers that policyholders must use with their international health insurance plan while living and working in Germany?


It depends on the specific international health insurance plan. Some plans may have a network of preferred providers that policyholders must use in order to receive full coverage, while others may allow policyholders to choose their own providers. It is important for policyholders to carefully review their plan’s terms and conditions to understand any network limitations.

19. Are there any age restrictions or limits on international health insurance coverage for foreign workers in Germany?

There may be age restrictions or limits on international health insurance coverage for foreign workers in Germany, depending on the specific insurance policy and provider. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any health insurance plan before enrolling. Some policies may have an upper age limit for new applicants, while others may have different coverage options for older individuals. Additionally, some policies may only cover certain types of treatments or pre-existing conditions up to a certain age. It is best to consult with the insurance provider directly for more specific information about age restrictions and limits on coverage.

20. Can a foreign worker cancel their international health insurance policy at any time while living and working in Germany, and are there any penalties for doing so?


Yes, a foreign worker can cancel their international health insurance policy at any time while living and working in Germany. However, they may be subject to penalties or fees depending on the terms of their policy and the reason for cancellation. It is important to carefully review the policy documents and contact the provider for clarification before cancelling.