Discover the essential guide to private insurance in Germany designed to empower expats with the knowledge they need for a seamless transition and secure living.
Private Insurance in Germany: A Guide for Expats
Are you an expat living in Germany or planning to move there soon? Understanding the healthcare system in your new home is crucial, and one of the key aspects to consider is your private insurance options. Germany offers a wide range of private insurance products to expats, ensuring you have comprehensive coverage for various aspects of your life. In this guide, we’ll explore 14 essential types of private insurance tailored to the needs of expatriates.
1. Pet Insurance
If you own a pet in Germany, consider taking out some sort of pet insurance to cover veterinary bills and other associated costs. Some insurance companies will even pay out in the event of your pet being lost or stolen.
2. Life Insurance
Life insurance ensures that your named beneficiary receives a death benefit upon your death. The amount of the benefit is dependent upon the premium you pay. You can compare options with the Horizon65 comparison tool. Other providers in Germany include:
Hypofriend Feather
3. Travel Insurance
Going on holiday? Make sure you are covered abroad! Purchasing travel insurance means you are covered in the case of missed or cancelled flights, accidents, and other unexpected expenses. You can also purchase policies that cover your luggage against theft. Barmenia provides a travel insurance in Germany or you can try SafetyWing, a travel insurance for digital nomads.
4. Home and Household Insurance
Home and household insurance policies cover you in the case of any damage caused to your property by accidents, burglaries or fires. You can compare 300 options with the Horizon65 comparison tool or go direct to one of the following providers:
Hypofriend GetSafe (Expat-focused insurance, 100% in English & simple to use mobile app) Feather (registration and onboarding provided in English on behalf of Barmenia)
5. Liability Insurance
Liability insurance protects the policyholder from lawsuits or other claims that fall within the coverage of the insurance policy.
GetSafe (Expat-focused insurance, 100% in English & simple to use mobile app) Hypofriend Feather (registration and onboarding provided in English on behalf of Barmenia)
6. Car & Motorcycle Insurance
If you own a car in Germany, you are legally obliged to take out car insurance that covers third parties at the very least. Visit our Car insurance in Germany page to find out more and get links to recommended car insurance providers.
If for any reason you are unable to work for six months or more, whether due to illness, injury or some other health reason, occupational disability insurance (Berufsunfähigkeitsversicherung or BU-Versicherung) will step in to provide a monthly disability pension for as long as you are out of work. The occupational disability pension (Berufsunfähigkeitsrente) supplements the income you might receive from the state, which is known as a reduced earning capacity pension (Erwerbsminderung).
Occupational disability insurance can be added onto an existing health insurance or pension insurance scheme, or taken out as a separate private insurance plan. Certain private health insurance companies sometimes combine occupational disability insurance policies with private long-term care insurance, on the basis that inability to work and the need for care are sometimes issues that go hand in hand.
Funeral insurance covers all the arrangements for your loved one’s send-off, so you don’t have to worry about cost. As an expat, it can also cover the costs of repatriation for those who wish to be buried in their homeland.
BarmeniaDirekt Versicherungen ERGO Direkt
9. Legal Expenses Insurance
Legal expenses insurance ensures that you always have access to the law and justice by covering legal costs in the case of a dispute, regardless of who brings the case.
Hypofriend GetSafe legal protection (Expat-focused insurance, 100% in English & simple to use mobile app) Feather Or, compare 300+ options with the Horizon65 tool.
10. Electronics Insurance
Protect your electronic valuables from accident, theft or loss with electronics insurance! Most policies cover liquid damage, cracked screens and even accidental drops as well.
Friendsurance
11. Rent Guarantee Insurance
If you own a house in Germany and are letting it out, you should consider taking out rent guarantee insurance to cover you in the event that your tenants are unable to pay their rent.
12. Construction Insurance
Constructions insurance is a legal requirement for most kinds of construction work. There are different types of policies, which can provide coverage for construction materials, employees, guard against risks and protect you in the case of natural disasters. See Grundeigentümer Versicherung to find out more.
13. Bike Insurance
Do you own a bicycle in Germany? Bike thefts are common, so having insurance is a good idea:
Feather (service provided in English on behalf of Berlin Direkt Versicherung AG) Barmenia
14. Accident Insurance
Accident insurance covers you and your family members in the case of either accident or death.
Hypofriend (in English) DFV – Deutsche Familienversicherung
Navigating the German insurance landscape as an expat can be challenging, but being informed about your options is the first step toward ensuring your well-being and financial security. Carefully assess your needs, explore the providers mentioned above, and consider seeking guidance from experts to make the best choices for your unique situation. Protecting yourself and your loved ones is a priority, and with the right insurance coverage, you can enjoy your expat journey in Germany with confidence.
Disclaimer: The following information is intended to provide a general overview of private insurance options in Germany for expatriates. It is important to note that insurance regulations and requirements may change over time, and individual circumstances can vary widely. Therefore, this guide should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.
Readers are strongly encouraged to consult with qualified insurance professionals, legal advisors, or financial experts before making any decisions regarding private insurance in Germany. Additionally, it is crucial to research and verify the accuracy and currency of the information provided herein, as well as to consider personal factors such as health status, income, and specific needs when choosing insurance coverage.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented in this guide, neither the author nor any affiliated parties can be held responsible for any inaccuracies, errors, omissions, or consequences that may arise from the use of this information. Decisions regarding private insurance should be made in consultation with professionals who are knowledgeable about the latest German insurance regulations and who can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual circumstances.
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a sole source of information when making insurance-related decisions. By using this guide, you acknowledge and accept the limitations of its content and agree to seek professional advice as needed for your specific situation.
About the Author: Elle Johnson, travel writer living in Germany, an avid explorer fueled by wanderlust, uncovers Germany's hidden treasures. From mountains to luxury hotels, spontaneous trips to meticulous planning, she embraces diverse experiences. Join her in unraveling Germany's wonders and creating lifelong memories.
