Health Insurance After Termination: Without Gaps Stay Insured (2026) in Germany

Yes. § 19 (2) SGB V grants nachgehender Leistungsanspruch — DAK-Gesundheit cover continues for up to one month after the last working day at no cost, as long as the next job or Arbeitslosengeld starts within that window.

You switch to freiwillige Versicherung under § 9 SGB V (voluntary GKV) or to Arbeitslosengeld I (Agentur für Arbeit pays 14.6% of the benefit to DAK-Gesundheit). Private bridging via Care Expatriate from €58/month is also possible for expats with an Aufenthaltstitel.

The 2026 minimum contribution is roughly €230/month (14.6% of the €1,178.33 fictional minimum income + 2.5% Zusatzbeitrag + Pflegeversicherung). The exact amount depends on other income declared to the Krankenkasse.

Yes — § 82 AufenthG requires continuous insurance proof. Care Expatriate (from €58/month) is the standard bridge for expats between jobs; for the job-search phase under § 20 AufenthG it is accepted for up to 18 months.

The Arbeitsbescheinigung from the ex-employer plus the Mitgliedsbescheinigung of the previous or new Krankenkasse (usually DAK-Gesundheit). Once ALG I is granted, the Krankenkasse contribution is paid directly by the Agentur — no gap.

You remain covered for up to one month after employment ends (extended coverage). If you register as unemployed and receive ALG I, the employment agency pays your GKV contributions. For gaps, Care Economy from €30/30 days can bridge the transition.

Your employer usually notifies the insurer. Still, confirm directly with your GKV (e.g., DAK Gesundheit) to avoid gaps – especially if you're planning to continue voluntarily or change providers.