When you plan to study in Germany in 2026, finding affordable health insurance Germany for international students 2026 is a key step. Under German law, every international student must secure valid coverage before enrolling, whether you’re starting a bachelor programme or joining a january intake masters europe for international students. This ultimate guide walks you through legal requirements, compares public and private plans, and shows you how to enroll without overspending on premiums.
Understand insurance requirements
Mandatory coverage by law
Health insurance is mandatory by law for all international students in Germany in 2026, and you must have valid coverage before completing your university enrollment [1]. Without proof of insurance, universities will not finalize your admission and German authorities will not issue or extend your student visa.
Types of insurance certificates
You need two certificates: travel insurance for your visa application and long-term health insurance for university enrolment. Travel insurance covers emergencies up to your arrival date, while long-term insurance provides comprehensive benefits through the full study period [2].
Exemptions and prerequisites
- If you’re under 30 and enrolled in a degree programme (bachelor or master), you qualify for discounted public health insurance.
- Students in preparatory or language courses must purchase private or expat insurance, as public plans are not available for non-degree tracks [3].
- Once you turn 30, you must move to private health insurance unless you already hold a public policy.
Compare coverage options
Public health insurance
Public, or statutory, insurance is the default choice for most students under 30. It covers doctor visits, hospital treatment, dental care and mental health services.
Eligibility
- You must be under 30 when your policy starts and enrolled in a degree programme.
- Part-time work up to 20 hours per week does not affect your student rate.
Costs
Typical monthly premiums are around €110 for students, thanks to a special discount of about 30 percent off the standard rate [4].
What’s covered
- Outpatient and inpatient care
- Prescriptions and dental examinations
- Free family insurance for non-working spouse or children under certain conditions (§ 10 SGB V)
Private health insurance
Private plans may suit you if you’re over 30, ineligible for public coverage, or seeking extra benefits.
Eligibility
- Students aged 30 or above at policy start
- Preparatory-course and language-course participants
- Postgraduate guest scientists and freelancers
Costs
Average premiums run from €130 to €150 per month, though some plans start as low as €79 [1]. Premiums depend on age, deductible and optional add-ons.
What’s covered
- Legally equivalent benefits to public plans
- Additional perks such as private hospital rooms or dental implants, depending on provider
Assess affordability factors
Premium ranges
- Public plans: €110–€150 per month
- Private entry-level plans: €79–€100 per month
- Premium private plans: €150–€250 per month
Discounts and subsidies
- Student discount up to age 30 on public rates
- University-partnered group rates via student unions
- Occasional promotional offers from private insurers through platforms like Expatrio
Additional benefits
Consider plans that bundle travel and long-term coverage or include repatriation and emergency evacuation. Bundled options can lower overall costs compared to separate policies.
Choose the right insurer
Popular public providers
- Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)
- AOK – Die Gesundheitskasse
- Barmer
Leading private plans
- Study Secure Premium by ottonova (from €79/month via Expatrio)
- Provisit Student by DR-WALTER (tiers starting at €33/month for preparatory students)
- Private expat plans from Feather and Feather+
Bundled platforms for students
Some platforms let you arrange travel insurance and long-term student coverage in one application. For example, DR-WALTER partners with Techniker Krankenkasse to streamline your enrollment process [2].
| Provider | Plan | Monthly premium | Key features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) | Student tariff | ~€110 | Full statutory benefits |
| ottonova via Expatrio | Study Secure Premium | €79–€100 | Digital service, English app |
| DR-WALTER | Provisit Student | €33–€79 | Tiered options, flexible terms |
| Private expat plans (e.g., Feather) | Expat Student Coverage | €90–€150 | Customizable add-ons |
Complete enrollment steps
Secure travel insurance
First, purchase short-term travel insurance to satisfy your visa requirements. This policy must cover medical emergencies and repatriation until your long-term plan begins.
Apply for long-term coverage
- Compare quotes online and select a plan.
- Complete the insurer’s application form and submit required documents (e.g., passport, admission letter).
- Pay the initial premium, if required.
Receive your certificate
After approval, your insurer issues a certificate of insurance within a few weeks, which you must submit to your university and immigration office [4].
Manage your policy
Switching between plans
You can switch from public to private insurance if your income exceeds €73 800 per year (threshold as of 2025) or if you turn 30 [1]. If you move from student status to a work permit, follow the steps in how to switch health insurance from student to work permit germany.
Renewals and cancellations
- Public plans: automatic renewal until you leave your programme
- Private plans: check notice periods (usually one month before policy end)
- Notify your insurer promptly if you change your address, study programme or visa status
Reduce insurance expenses
Plan ahead and compare
Start comparing plans at least three months before your arrival to secure the best rates and avoid last-minute price surges.
Leverage student discounts
Ask your insurer about special university or student union deals these can cut premiums by up to 10 percent.
Bundle policies
Combining travel and long-term insurance in a single purchase often lowers administrative fees and overall cost.
Avoid coverage gaps
Ensure your long-term policy starts on the day your travel insurance ends. A gap could invalidate your visa or leave you liable for medical bills.
Answer common questions
Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes, you must have valid health coverage before you enroll in a German university or extend your student visa [1].
What if I’m over 30?
If you turn 30 during your studies or start at 30 or above, you must purchase private health insurance. Public student rates no longer apply.
Can I add family members?
Under public insurance, you can often add non-working spouse or children at no extra cost (§ 10 SGB V). Private plans may offer family riders for an additional premium.
Can I change providers mid-study?
Yes, you can switch public insurers freely. Switching between public and private requires meeting eligibility rules and observing notice periods.
Key takeaways
- Understand that insurance is mandatory and must cover your full stay
- Compare public and private plans based on eligibility, coverage and cost
- Use student discounts and bundled options to secure affordable rates
- Complete your application early to avoid enrollment delays
- Manage renewals, switches and cancellations proactively
With this guide, securing affordable health insurance Germany for international students 2026 becomes a straightforward process. Start comparing plans today, submit your applications on time, and focus on what matters most your studies and life in Germany.
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