Understand health funding in Germany for exchange students
Planning an exchange in Germany involves understanding how the local health system works. In the country, there is a unique model that guarantees medical coverage to all residents, including international students. Knowing who pays for medical treatments is essential for those who wish to study, work or live in German territory.
The structure of the German healthcare system
The German healthcare system is recognized worldwide for its efficiency and comprehensiveness. Unlike many countries, Germany does not have a centralized national healthcare system. Instead, the financing of medical services is based on a health insurance system, where insurance funds pay for the services of each insured person.
This model was a pioneer in the world and was introduced in 1883 by Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. At the time, illnesses or accidents at work often pushed workers into total poverty. Health insurance emerged as a solution to this social problem, laying the foundations for what is now considered one of the most advanced systems in the world for those who participate in programs such as Study and Work in Germany.
Types of health insurance and who pays for what
In Germany, health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including international students. Do they exist two main systems that complement each other, making the German model unique in Europe:
- Compulsory health insurance (GKV): It covers approximately 90% of the population (74 million people)
- Private health insurance (PKV): Serves around 9 million people
- Principle of solidarity: In GKV, contributions are based on the insured's financial capacity
- Direct payment vs. refund: In the public system, doctors and hospitals charge the insurance directly; in the private system, the patient pays first and then requests reimbursement
- Social compensation: The system balances costs between young and old, healthy and sick, single people and families
- Compensated deficits: When necessary, tax revenues complement the financing of the system
The principle of self-management and its advantages
Unlike countries such as the United Kingdom, Sweden or Italy, where the state is the direct provider of basic health services, Germany adopts the principle of self-management. In this model, the state establishes structural conditions by law, but health insurance funds, doctors' associations, and hospitals organize themselves under their own responsibility to implement these requirements.
This decentralized approach allows greater flexibility and adaptation to the specific needs of each region or population group. For international students, this means access to a robust system that maintains high quality standards across the country, regardless of the city where they decide to study or work.
What is covered by insurance and how it works in practice
Understanding what is covered by your health insurance in Germany is critical to taking advantage of all available benefits. The German system offers comprehensive coverage that includes:
- Medical appointments: Assistance with general practitioners and specialists without limits of use
- Hospital admissions: Full coverage for necessary treatments, including surgery
- Prescribed medications: Available with a small co-pay rate in some cases
- Dental treatments: Basic coverage for preventive and essential procedures
- Laboratory tests and diagnostics: Clinical analysis and imaging tests when necessary
- Emergency treatments: Valid throughout Germany and, in many cases, in the European Union
- Prevention programs: Regular check-ups and preventive follow-up
Obligations of international students
For international students who wish to participate in programs such as University abroad, having adequate health insurance is not only recommended but mandatory. German authorities require proof of medical coverage for approval of a student visa and for enrollment in educational institutions. Students under 30 generally opt for public insurance because of its comprehensiveness and simplicity, while those over that age often have to resort to specific private insurance.
Health insurance documentation and amounts
Purchasing health insurance in Germany requires specific documentation and appropriate financial planning. In 2025, students should consider a monthly cost of approximately €120 for public insurance (GKV) or starting at €35 for private options aimed at students (PKV). These amounts must be included in financial planning, in addition to €11,904 required annually on the blocked account (blocked account) for proof of support.
It is essential to prepare documents such as a valid passport, proof of enrollment, proof of residence in Germany and, for private insurance, possibly a basic medical history. Advance planning is crucial, as both insurance and a blocked account are interdependent requirements for obtaining a student visa.
Practical tips for using the German healthcare system
To make the most of the German healthcare system during your exchange, some practical guidelines can make all the difference. It is recommended to perform a full check-up before traveling, identify hospitals close to your residence, and learn basic medical terms in German. Always keep your insurance card with you and save emergency numbers on your cell phone. It's also important to make digital copies of all your medical documentation and keep your registration details up to date with the insurance company.
Be Easy
A Be Easy offers complete support for Brazilian students who want to understand and use the German health system. Our specialized team helps you choose the ideal insurance for your profile, guiding you through each step of the process and ensuring that all documentation is correct for your student visa. With our exclusive partnerships, we provide differentiated conditions that facilitate your adaptation in Germany. Get in touch today!
