When do I have to provide proof of sufficient health insurance cover?

Proof of sufficient health insurance cover is a standard requirement for every category D visa (national visa).

Please note that the visa can only become valid from the day on which you have sufficient health insurance cover.

In the case of family reunification with a German national, no proof of health insurance cover is required for the visa. However, we recommend that you take out insurance, as otherwise you will have to bear the costs of treatment yourself.

Which health insurance policies are recognized?

The health insurance cover must include the benefits to which legally insured persons are entitled in accordance with Section 11 (1 - 3) SGBV. The insurance contract may not contain any expiry or termination clauses regarding a certain age, the cessation of employment, a change of purpose of residence or the loss of legal residence status.

Travel health insurance or the European Health Insurance Card of another member state is not sufficient proof of adequate health insurance cover.

I am accepted into the statutory health insurance scheme. Do I need additional insurance?

If you are subject to compulsory statutory health insurance as an employee, please note that this only applies once you have taken up residence in Germany and commenced employment. If you enter the country before this, you must take out private health insurance until your employment begins and you can be admitted to the statutory health insurance scheme.

This private health insurance must also include the benefits to which those with statutory health insurance are entitled in accordance with § 11 Para. 1 - 3 SGBV.

I am not accepted into statutory health insurance, what insurance cover do I need?

If there is no statutory insurance obligation after entry, proof of insurance cover for at least 3 months must be provided. This health insurance must also include the benefits to which legally insured persons are entitled according to § 11 para. 1 - 3 SGBV.

What applies to students?

Students must either provide proof from the university that they have already matriculated or proof of health insurance up to the time of matriculation. Proof of valid health insurance cover is a prerequisite for enrolment. Special regulations apply for students aged 30 and over.

Information on statutory health insurance

Information on German statutory health insurance and on switching to German statutory health insurance from Spanish health insurance can be found here in German.