Health Insurance for International Students in Germany
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International students in Germany are required to have health insurance. There are two options:
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Public Health Insurance: This is offered by statutory health insurance companies and is mandatory for students whose monthly income is below a certain limit. It is relatively cheap and covers most medical treatments.
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Private Health Insurance: This is optional but often offers better coverage and a wider choice of medical facilities. It is more expensive than public health insurance but may be worth it for those who can afford it.
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Both options must meet the minimum coverage requirements set by the German government. It is important to compare and choose the right insurance plan based on personal needs and budget.
Health insurance for foreign students in Germany
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Everyone who lives in Germany must have health insurance, even those who are just there for a semester.
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While degree-seeking students under 30 can sign up for cheap public health insurance, everyone else will need to look into other options for coverage, such conventional public health contributions or a private plan.
How much does student health insurance in Germany cost ?
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Students under the age of 30 are exempt from paying the 7.3% social security contribution toward healthcare insurance; instead, they pay a set (discounted) monthly amount for long-term care, which includes both basic healthcare insurance and nursing care insurance, of €117.50 (students under the age of 23) or €120.34 (students between the ages of 23 and 30).
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Typically, this sum is lower than the price of regular payments determined by earnings.
How much is public health insurance for international students in Germany?
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Many people who decide to relocate to Germany to further their studies are concerned about the cost of public health insurance for students while they are studying there.
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The good news for international students is that both foreign students and native German students are eligible for the discounted fee of €117.50 (students under the age of 23) or €120.34 (students between the ages of 23 and 30).
How to get student health insurance in Germany?
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Public health insurance can be easily arranged for German citizens, but prior to moving, overseas students must do the same.
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Students can sign up for discounted student public health insurance with Barmer, one of the biggest and most reputable suppliers in Germany, through German Studio.
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You have access to ongoing (including English-language) support provided by this supplier thanks to our connection with Barmer.
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We can assist you at every stage and make sure your health insurance is set up before you get there.
Barmer Health insurance for foreign students in Germany
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Barmer is a one of the biggest German statutory health insurance company that offers health insurance for students. As a student in Germany, if you meet the income requirements, you are required to have health insurance coverage. Barmer offers a range of health insurance plans specifically designed for students, which offer comprehensive coverage for medical treatment in Germany.
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These plans usually include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and other medical services. The exact coverage and cost of the plan will depend on the specific plan selected and the individual's needs.
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It's always a good idea to compare the coverage and cost of different health insurance plans and choose one that best fits your budget and medical needs.
Where Do I Apply?
You have to apply for a job seeker visa at your nearest German embassy, consulate, or another visa application centre in your country representing Germany. Please note that if Germany does not have an official representative in your country of residence, you may be required to submit your application to a neighbouring country.
How Long Does It Take to Process?
It usually takes four to six weeks to process your German job seeker visa application. But this processing time can be longer depending on the embassy and whether your application is complete.
How Much Does a German Job Seeker Visa Cost?
A job seeker visa in Germany costs €75. Most embassies will ask you to pay the visa fee in cash and convert it to your local currency if required.
For How Long Is a German Job Seeker Visa Valid?
Your German job seeker visa is a national D visa valid for six months. Please take note of your visa validity period and make sure you won’t stay for more than you’re allowed to; otherwise, you may face penalties.
Can I Take My Family With a Job Seeker Visa in Germany?
Generally, you’re not allowed to bring your family to Germany on a job seeker visa. However, if you find employment and receive a work visa, you can get your close family members, i.e., your partner and children.
Can I Extend the Visa?
You cannot extend a job seeker visa; once the visa expires, you must return to your home country. You can re-apply for the same visa after you’ve spent the same amount of time outside of Germany as when you were in the country seeking employment.
Please note that if you find employment, you can apply for a work visa and continue your stay.
How Can I Convert My Job Seeker Visa to Work Visa in Germany?
If you find employment in Germany while you’re there with your job seeker visa, you can apply for an EU Blue Card, another type of work visa or a residence permit for qualified professionals. You must apply for your work visa and residence permit at your region’s competent Foreigners’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde or Ausländeramt).
Do I Need to Know German?
You are not required to provide proof of language proficiency for your job seeker visa in Germany.
Still, you’re highly encouraged to develop your German language skills as it will give you a higher chance of finding employment.
However, if you have vocational qualifications, you may be required to provide proof of language proficiency level B2 (CEFR).