PKV Guide: Step-by-Step for Expats
Everything you need to understand private health insurance in Germany, broken down into four focused guides. Start with the overview or jump straight to the topic you need.
Germany's private health insurance system (PKV) can save eligible expats €200-500 per month compared to public GKV. But it is a major, hard-to-reverse decision. This guide hub covers the four questions every expat should answer before switching.
The four PKV guides
Who Qualifies for PKV?
The €77,400 income threshold, employment types, age considerations, and pre-existing conditions explained.
PKV Costs and Contributions
Real monthly premiums by age and plan level, employer contributions, and what happens at retirement.
How to Switch from GKV to PKV
Step-by-step: notice periods, health questionnaire, timing, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
PKV for Freelancers
Why self-employed people often save hundreds per month with PKV, even without employer contribution.
Quick tools
Not sure where to start?
Take the 2-minute quiz to find out if you qualify for PKV, then connect with a licensed broker who speaks English.
Take the eligibility quiz →