Health insurance is mandatory for all residents of Germany. Persons who wish to enter Germany – for example to take up gainful employment, for family reunification or to study – require continuous health insurance coverage that meets the standards of the German Social Code, Book V (SGB V).

After entering Germany, you must obtain German health insurance. However, this coverage only becomes valid once certain conditions are met, for example starting your job, enrolling in your studies or registering your address with the local authorities. Since the exact timing of these events cannot always be determined in advance, the period between your arrival in Germany and the start of your statutory health insurance must be covered by an appropriate private health insurance policy.

Therefore, you are required to provide an incoming health insurance policy. This insurance must not include any cancellation clauses for long-term stays, e.g. “No insurance cover is provided in those countries in which the insured person maintains a permanent residence” or “provides compensation for insured events occurring during a temporary stay abroad”

The embassy/consulate is not entitled to give advice on a specific insurer or company. However, you can simply search the internet using the wording “incoming health insurance for permanent stay in Germany” and you will find various options.

Information on German statutory health insurance can be found at:

https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/living-in-germany/money-insurance/health-insurance