Is health insurance mandatory for expats in Germany?

Short answer: Is health insurance mandatory for expats in Germany? Yes — German law requires every resident, including newcomers on a visa or Blue Card, to hold valid public or private health cover from day one.

Health insurance is mandatory for expats in Germany under the Sozialgesetzbuch (Social Code): without proof of coverage you cannot enrol at university, receive a residence permit or even start work. The rule applies the moment you register your address (Anmeldung) and lasts for your entire stay. Most employees earning under the annual threshold (currently €73,800) are auto-enrolled in the statutory system (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung). If your gross salary is higher, or you arrive as a freelancer, you can choose between statutory and private health insurance.

At Finance for Expats we explain both routes in clear English, compare premiums, and handle the German paperwork for you:

• Statutory cover – income-based contributions, free family co-insurance, wide doctor network.
• Private cover – risk-based premiums, tailored benefits and faster elective appointments, but long-term commitments.

Need to know which option fits your visa, salary or family situation? Start with our two-minute online eligibility check, then book a free call via our insurance advisory desk. We translate policy terms, submit applications and make sure your health certificate reaches the immigration office before any deadline.

Key take-aways:

• Coverage is legally compulsory from your first day in Germany.
• Employees under €73k join statutory insurance; higher earners and freelancers can opt for private plans.
• Finance for Expats handles comparisons, translations and submission at no extra cost to you.