Health insurance is mandatory for all international students studying in Germany. Here’s an overview of the mandatory policies and coverage requirements:
### Mandatory Health Insurance Policies
1. **Compulsory Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung – GKV)**:
– Most international students under the age of 30 and enrolled in a public university in Germany are required to have statutory health insurance.
– This insurance is provided by public health insurers (gesetzliche Krankenkassen) like AOK, TK, Barmer, etc.
– Students must enroll in a public health insurance plan within the first 3 months of their arrival in Germany to comply with visa and residence permit requirements.
2. **Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung – PKV)**:
– Students over the age of 30 or those pursuing a master’s degree may be eligible for private health insurance.
– Private insurance may also be an option for students with specific needs or preferences, but it must meet certain criteria to be recognized by German authorities.
### Coverage Requirements
1. **Medical Care**:
– Health insurance covers essential medical care, including visits to doctors, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services.
– It also includes necessary treatments, surgeries, and medications prescribed by healthcare providers.
2. **Preventive Care**:
– Coverage extends to preventive care measures such as vaccinations, health screenings, and check-ups.
3. **Mental Health Services**:
– Many health insurance plans include coverage for mental health services, including therapy sessions and psychiatric consultations.
4. **Dental and Optical Care**:
– Some plans cover routine dental check-ups, treatments, and optical care (e.g., eye exams, glasses, contact lenses).
5. **Travel Insurance Benefits**:
– Some health insurance policies may include travel insurance benefits, covering medical emergencies during travels within Europe or internationally.
### Enrollment and Documentation
– **Enrollment Process**: International students must provide proof of health insurance coverage when registering at their university and applying for a residence permit.
– **Insurance Certificate (Versicherungsbescheinigung)**: Students receive an insurance certificate from their health insurer, which is required for university registration and visa applications.
### Costs and Contributions
– **Monthly Premiums**: Costs for public health insurance vary but generally range from €80-100 per month, depending on the insurer and specific coverage options.
– **Additional Costs**: Students may be responsible for co-payments (Eigenanteil) for certain medical services, medications, or treatments.
### Importance of Health Insurance
Having adequate health insurance is crucial for international students in Germany to ensure access to healthcare services without incurring high out-of-pocket expenses. It also complies with legal requirements for visa and residence permits, providing peace of mind and security during your studies abroad.
Before arriving in Germany, it’s essential for students to research health insurance options, understand coverage details, and enroll in a suitable plan to meet their healthcare needs effectively.
