What is GKV (Public Health Insurance)?

GKV is Germany's statutory public health insurance, funded by contributions from employees and employers. If you earn under €69,300/year (2026 threshold), you're automatically enrolled in GKV. Your employer pays 50% of your contributions (~7.3%), and you pay the other 50% plus a supplemental premium (Zusätzbeitrag) of around 1.7–2.5%. Family members without income can be co-insured for free. Providers include TK, AOK, Barmer, and DAK.

What is PKV (Private Health Insurance)?

PKV is available to employees earning above €69,300/year, the self-employed, and civil servants (Beamte). Contributions are based on your age, health status, and chosen plan — not income. Young, healthy, high earners benefit most. However, premiums increase significantly as you age. Each family member needs a separate policy, which can get expensive.

GKV vs PKV: The Key Differences

Coverage: PKV often provides faster access to specialists and senior physicians (Chefarztbehandlung). GKV has waiting lists but covers everything essential.
Cost: GKV scales with income (more you earn, more you pay). PKV scales with age.
Family coverage: GKV includes free co-insurance for non-working spouses and children. PKV requires separate premiums for each family member.
Switching back: Once you leave GKV for PKV, getting back is extremely difficult unless you earn below the threshold for 3+ consecutive years.

Which is Right for You?

If you're a young, high-earning single: PKV might save you money in the short term. If you have a family, are over 35, or plan to be self-employed: GKV is usually safer. If you're on a work visa: GKV is almost always the default and simplest option.

Pro tip: Talk to an independent insurance broker (Versicherungsmakler) before making any switch. The decision is difficult to reverse.

🏥 GKV or PKV — which are you on? Any questions about health insurance as an expat? Hit reply.