Public Health Insurance in Germany
Experience the peace of mind that comes with BARMER’s comprehensive and visa-compliant health insurance. With Fintiba Plus, you get full public coverage through BARMER, along with a blocked account and all required documents — everything you need for your German visa in one package.
Thousands of international students and expats trust Fintiba to simplify their move to Germany.
BARMER – Your Trusted Partner for Comprehensive Public Health Insurance in Germany
Experience peace of mind with BARMER, one of Germany's leading public health insurers. Enjoy extensive coverage and exceptional service tailored for international students.
Why choose BARMER as your provider?
BARMER combines nationwide coverage with personalized service. Students and professionals benefit from fast processing, digital sign-up, and access to 400+ service centers. The provider is known for strong customer support, multilingual resources, and reliable visa compliance.
How can I sign up with BARMER?
You can register online in just a few steps. Submit your enrollment certificate or employment contract, along with basic personal information. BARMER will issue your insurance certificate (and M10 if needed) and notify the university or employer directly.
Discover the Benefits of Public Health Insurance
BARMER offers comprehensive health coverage tailored for internationals in Germany. Enjoy peace of mind with our extensive services designed to keep you healthy.
Comprehensive Coverage for Your Health Needs
Experience 100% cover for all recommended vaccinations.
Annual Cash Reward for Healthy Choices
Receive a cash reward of over €100 each year.
Access Free Medical Advice Anytime
Utilise BARMER Teledoktor for free medical advice in English.
立即取得Fintiba Plus
Discover comprehensive health coverage with BARMER for your stay in Germany.
Understanding Germany’s Statutory Health Insurance System
Germany’s statutory health insurance system, known as GKV, is a government-regulated program that guarantees access to comprehensive medical care. Contributions are income-based, and coverage includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and preventive services.
How It Works
GKV operates on a solidarity principle—everyone pays a percentage of their income, and in return, everyone receives equal access to healthcare. Employees and employers share the monthly premium, while students and low-income individuals pay reduced rates. Once enrolled, members receive an insurance card and can access treatment from any public doctor or clinic.
Eligibility Criteria
Employees, students, and low-income individuals can benefit from reduced rates.
However, not everyone qualifies for public health insurance. For instance, university students over 30 years of age, Studienkolleg students, job seekers and au-pairs will need to choose private health insurance coverage.
Eligibility for Public Health Insurance
Eligibility for GKV depends on your status in Germany. Employees below a certain income threshold are automatically enrolled, while students, EU nationals, and some self-employed individuals can apply under specific conditions.
Eligibility for GKV depends on your status in Germany. Employees below a certain income threshold are automatically enrolled, while students, EU nationals, and some self-employed individuals can apply under specific conditions.
Yes, international students enrolled in a German university are usually eligible. Public providers offer special student tariffs with full medical coverage at reduced monthly rates. Language course participants and those over 30 may face different rules.
Employees who previously held private insurance can switch back to public if their income drops below the mandatory threshold or if they change jobs and re-enter the system. Switching is usually possible only within certain windows, so timing matters.
GKV stands for Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, or statutory health insurance in Germany. It provides comprehensive health coverage for eligible individuals. This system ensures that basic medical needs are met for all insured parties.
Understanding Public Health Insurance Costs in Germany
Public health insurance costs are based on income, making it fair and predictable. The standard contribution rate in 2025 is 14.6% of gross income, plus an average additional contribution of around 1.6%, split equally between employee and employer.
Cost Factors
The amount you pay depends on:
Your gross monthly income. Whether you are employed, self-employed, or a student.
The specific additional contribution charged by your chosen provider
Premium Differences
Students pay a fixed fee, while employees contribute a percentage of their salary.
Registration for Public Health Insurance
To access public healthcare in Germany, registration with a certified statutory health insurance provider is essential. This is typically required during university enrolment or when starting employment.
What documents are required to register?
- Valid passport or ID
- University enrollment certificate or employment contract
Are registration steps different for students and employees?
Yes. Students usually apply online and submit proof of enrollment to receive confirmation for university registration. Employees typically register through their HR department or directly with the provider, who then reports coverage to the employer.
Registration for Public Health Insurance
To access public healthcare in Germany, you must register with a certified statutory health insurance provider. Registration is often required during university enrollment or at the start of employment.
Public Insurance and Visa Requirements
Public health insurance is often mandatory for obtaining a German visa, along with blocked account confirmation. Proof of coverage must be submitted during the application process, particularly for student and work visas.
Is public insurance accepted for student and work visas?
Yes. Public insurance is fully accepted by all German immigration offices. Students with GKV coverage meet all health insurance requirements for the student visa, and employees with statutory insurance are likewise covered for work and residence permits.
When does coverage begin?
Coverage usually begins on the official start date of studies or employment, as stated in your enrollment certificate or contract. In some cases, you can request retroactive coverage if needed for visa processing.
Common Questions about Public Health Insurance in Germany
Your questions about public health insurance answered. Get informed and stay protected.
How can I contact BARMER?
You can contact BARMER via phone, email, or chat. Their website offers English support and a 24/7 hotline. Walk-in service is also available in over 400 offices across Germany.
What are the prices for the public insurance?
Prices depend on your income and status. Students pay around €120–130 per month, while employee contributions average 7.3% of income, matched by the employer.
Can I find a doctor who speaks my preferred language?
Yes. BARMER provides tools to help you search for doctors by language. You can also use platforms like Jameda.de or Doctolib.de to filter based on preferred language.
How can I request the M-10 electronic notification from Barmer for my university?
Once registered with BARMER, you can request the M10 via email or through your personal online portal. The document is sent electronically to the university via secure system integration.
What services are covered by public health insurance in Germany?
GKV covers general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, prescribed medication, mental health support, maternity care, vaccinations, and preventive screenings.
What services and benefits does BARMER public health insurance cover?
In addition to standard GKV benefits, BARMER offers extras like video consultations, second medical opinions, digital health apps, and support in English and other languages.
Who is eligible to apply for public health insurance?
Employees under the income threshold, EU citizens, international students, and certain residents can apply. Eligibility depends on your legal status and activity in Germany.
What happens if I miss registration deadlines?
Delays in registering may affect your visa or university enrollment. In some cases, retroactive coverage is possible, but only within a limited time frame. Act quickly to avoid gaps in insurance.
Can I keep public insurance if I change jobs?
Yes. If your new job is within the public health insurance income threshold, your coverage continues without interruption. You just need to inform your provider and employer of the change.
Do freelancers qualify for public health insurance?
Freelancers can join the public system only under specific conditions, such as switching from prior public coverage or qualifying through voluntary insurance. Most freelancers are directed toward private plans unless they meet eligibility criteria for GKV.