--- title: "From €246/mo – retiree health insurance Germany" description: "Health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany: § 5 AufenthG residence permit, KVdR 9/10 rule, S1 form — Care Expatriate from €246/month (61–74)." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung-Auslaender.de", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/", "logo": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/logo.jpg", "contactPoint": { "@type": "ContactPoint", "telephone": "+49-228-97735-44", "contactType": "customer service", "availableLanguage": [ "German", "English" ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "WebSite", "name": "Krankenversicherung-Auslaender.de", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/", "inLanguage": [ "de", "en" ], "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung-Auslaender.de" } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "InsuranceAgency", "name": 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The senior premium follows age, not nationality. For short visits (up to 92 days, Schengen) Care Visa Protect starts at €0.85/day; for medium bridges Care Economy applies on a per-day, per-age-band basis (see the price table below). Statutory pensioner cover (KVdR) is generally not available to foreign retirees who fail the 9/10 rule — Care Expatriate is the standard long-term answer. Individual case review applies; not legal or insurance advice." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can foreign retirees join the German statutory health fund (GKV / KVdR)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Voluntary GKV membership after age 55 is also restricted under § 9 SGB V. Usually not. The KVdR (Krankenversicherung der Rentner) requires that the pensioner spent at least 9 out of the last 10 working years insured in the German statutory system — a test most foreign retirees fail. The standard fallback that the Ausländerbehörde recognises is Care Expatriate as a long-stay Incoming product. Retirees drawing an EU/EEA pension can use the S1 form under EU Regulation 883/2004 to register with a Krankenkasse and have the home country reimburse the cost." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does the Ausländerbehörde accept Care Expatriate for the retiree residence permit?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate is regularly recognised under § 5 AufenthG as proof of health insurance for the Aufenthaltstitel granted to foreign retirees and for parent reunification under § 36 AufenthG. Yes — as a rule. The bilingual certificate (German + English) issued after the online application is the document caseworkers expect to see. Individual case review applies; not legal advice." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When must the cover already exist for the retiree moving to Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate and Care Economy issue the bilingual certificate by email within minutes after the online application — most retirees book the cover 2 to 4 weeks before the flight. From the date of entry. The Ausländerbehörde, the German embassy and the Bürgeramt all expect the start date on the Krankenversicherungsnachweis to be no later than the day the retiree crosses the German border." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What about pre-existing conditions — are diabetes, hypertension or cancer follow-up covered?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Care Expatriate covers acute, unforeseen treatment within the policy terms. Chronic and pre-existing conditions are generally subject to AVB exclusions and waiting periods — the binding answer is the official insurance terms (AVB / GTC) issued with the bilingual certificate. For complex case histories we recommend a personal pre-check before applying. Not medical advice; individual case review applies." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does Care Expatriate cover long-term care (Pflegebedürftigkeit)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Once a foreign retiree manages to enter GKV via the S1 form (EU pensioners), Pflegeversicherung is mandatory and runs alongside. The standard Incoming product covers acute medical treatment, not the long-term care benefits of the German Pflegeversicherung (SGB XI). For retirees with a high probability of care needs we recommend reviewing a private supplementary care policy (Pflegezusatzversicherung) in parallel." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long can a foreign retiree stay on Care Expatriate?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Up to 60 months (5 years) on a single contract — the longest single-policy duration on the German Incoming market. The cover renews on the same terms within the age band; once the retiree changes age band (e.g. 60 → 61), the new entry-age premium applies at renewal. The bilingual certificate is reissued for every extension at the Ausländerbehörde." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What insurance proof does parent reunification (§ 36 AufenthG) require?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate per parent is the standard product because it scales to 5 years, is recognised by the Ausländerbehörde and requires no German bank account at policy start. An individual Krankenversicherungsnachweis per parent that covers the entire requested permit period — same standard as for the regular senior Aufenthaltstitel. The application file usually also includes pension proof, adequate housing and a declaration of subsistence by the resident child." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is the EHIC card from my home country enough for the residence permit?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers medically necessary treatment during a short visit but does not satisfy § 5 AufenthG for the long-stay senior residence permit. Generally no. The Ausländerbehörde expects either a recognised Incoming product (Care Expatriate) or a German Krankenkasse Mitgliedsbescheinigung issued under the S1 form for EU pensioners." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does the foreign spouse get free family co-insurance once the retiree is in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Only when the retiree is statutorily insured in the German GKV — which most foreign retirees are not after failing the KVdR 9/10 rule. In the typical case the foreign retiree couple holds two individual Care Expatriate contracts; the premium is age-based per person. Free Familienversicherung (§ 10 SGB V) becomes available only via an S1 form (EU pensioners) or via the spouse being on a German payroll." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What if the retiree is over 74 — can they still get Care Expatriate?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate accepts new applicants up to entry age 74. Retirees aged 75 and above typically need a personal pre-check — possible alternatives include continued cover with an existing foreign insurer, narrower bridge cover (Care Economy or Care Visa Protect for short visits up to 92 days) or specialised senior policies on the German market. Personal advice is strongly recommended in this age band." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does Care Expatriate include repatriation in case of serious illness or death?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Yes, within the policy terms. Medically necessary repatriation to the home country and, in case of death, transfer of the deceased are part of the AVB. This is also one of the wording items the German embassy specifically checks for the retiree visa — short travel insurance policies often fail exactly this point." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Travel insurance bought in my home country — is it enough for the retiree visa file?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Generally no. Travel insurance (Reisekrankenversicherung) bought in the home country usually fails the § 5 AufenthG test because the validity area, the duration and the repatriation wording do not match what the Ausländerbehörde expects. Care Expatriate (long-stay residence permit) and Care Economy (medium bridge) are the standard German-side substitutes — the bilingual certificate clears both the embassy visa portal and the immigration office counter." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How fast does the bilingual Krankenversicherungsnachweis arrive after the online application?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Typically within minutes — 3 to 7 minutes for Care Expatriate, Care Economy and Care Visa Protect. The PDF is in German and English, ready to upload to the embassy visa portal, to print for the airport or to hand in at the Ausländerbehörde counter. No upfront medical exam within policy terms; no German bank account required to start the policy." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is healthcare in Germany free for retirees?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. No. Healthcare in Germany is not free — every resident, including retirees, must carry health insurance, either statutory (GKV/KVdR) or private (PKV/Incoming). Once insured, most everyday treatment feels close to free because the sickness fund or insurer pays the doctor directly and the patient only sees a small copayment (Zuzahlung) for prescriptions and a few hospital days per year. Foreign retirees without GKV access typically rely on Care Expatriate as the recognised long-term answer." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How does German health insurance work for foreign retirees arriving from abroad?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "(1) EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners can use the S1 form (EU Regulation 883/2004) to enrol with a German Krankenkasse (TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK-Gesundheit) and have their home country reimburse the cost. Three pathways exist. (2) Non-EU retirees almost always fail the KVdR 9/10 rule and the voluntary GKV is restricted after age 55 (§ 9 SGB V) — Care Expatriate is the standard recognised Incoming product, from €68/month at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at 61–74. (3) Short visits up to 92 days use Care Visa Protect (Schengen) or Care Economy (medium bridge). Individual case review applies." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the difference between health insurance and long-term care insurance for retirees?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung, SGB XI) pays for help with daily activities once a care level (Pflegegrad 1–5) is recognised — meals, hygiene, mobility, dementia support. Health insurance (Krankenversicherung) pays the doctor, the hospital and the prescription drug — Care Expatriate, GKV or PKV. For foreign retirees on Care Expatriate the long-term care benefit set is typically not included; private supplementary cover (Pflegezusatzversicherung) is the usual answer. Both insurances are mandatory once a retiree is enrolled in the German statutory system via the S1 form." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can Americans retire to Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Yes — and Americans are one of the largest groups we see relocating to Germany as retirees. There is no dedicated US retirement visa, so most US citizens enter on a national long-stay D-visa and apply for a residence permit under § 7 AufenthG once registered at the Bürgeramt. The Ausländerbehörde expects three things in the file: a recognised health-insurance certificate (Care Expatriate is the standard answer because the KVdR 9/10 rule blocks the statutory route), proof of a secure pension or sufficient assets, and an adequate German address. The US–Germany double taxation agreement governs how a US pension is taxed once you become a German tax resident — speak to a qualified tax adviser; individual case review applies, not tax or legal advice." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does Germany have a retirement visa?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Both routes require the same insurance proof — a Krankenversicherungsnachweis recognised under § 5 AufenthG that covers the full requested permit period. Germany does not issue a named retirement visa, but it does grant a long-stay residence permit for retirees under § 7 AufenthG (general residence permit for any non-listed purpose) and, where parents join an adult child, under § 36 AufenthG (parent reunification). For non-EU retirees Care Expatriate is the cover most caseworkers accept; for EU/EEA pensioners the S1 form under EU Regulation 883/2004 routes the file through a German Krankenkasse instead. Individual case review applies." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much money do I need to retire in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For couples add roughly 50 to 70 percent on top. As a rule of thumb a single retiree budgets roughly 1,500 to 2,500 EUR per month in mid-sized German cities, and 2,500 to 3,500 EUR per month in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg or Frankfurt — covering rent, food, transport, leisure and the Krankenversicherung premium. Health insurance is a fixed line item: from €68/month for Care Expatriate at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at 61–74. Pension proof for the residence permit is checked by the Ausländerbehörde against this expected cost of living; embassies often look for around 1,000 to 1,500 EUR of net pension per person as a starting reference. These are indicative figures (Richtwert) — not financial advice; individual case review applies." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany typically cost?", "text": "How much does health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany typically cost?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-27", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "As a rule, from €68/month for Care Expatriate at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at entry age 61–74. The senior premium follows age, not nationality. For short visits (up to 92 days, Schengen) Care Visa Protect starts at €0.85/day; for medium bridges Care Economy applies on a per-day, per-age-band basis (see the price table below). Statutory pensioner cover (KVdR) is generally not available to foreign retirees who fail the 9/10 rule — Care Expatriate is the standard long-term answer. Individual case review applies; not legal or insurance advice.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-27", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can foreign retirees join the German statutory health fund (GKV / KVdR)?", "text": "Can foreign retirees join the German statutory health fund (GKV / KVdR)?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-27", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Voluntary GKV membership after age 55 is also restricted under § 9 SGB V. Usually not. The KVdR (Krankenversicherung der Rentner) requires that the pensioner spent at least 9 out of the last 10 working years insured in the German statutory system — a test most foreign retirees fail. The standard fallback that the Ausländerbehörde recognises is Care Expatriate as a long-stay Incoming product. Retirees drawing an EU/EEA pension can use the S1 form under EU Regulation 883/2004 to register with a Krankenkasse and have the home country reimburse the cost.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-27", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "DefinedTermSet", "name": "Foreign-retiree health insurance Germany — glossary", "inLanguage": "en", "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de" }, "hasDefinedTerm": [ { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Aufenthaltstitel for retirees (§ 7 AufenthG)", "description": "Residence permit granted to non-EU retirees with a secure pension, adequate housing and recognised health insurance for the entire requested permit period. 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Useful only for the 90-day visit, not for permanent relocation.", "inDefinedTermSet": "Foreign-retiree health insurance Germany — glossary" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "HowTo", "name": "How foreign retirees provide health-insurance proof in Germany", "description": "Step-by-step process to deliver an Ausländerbehörde-compliant Krankenversicherungsnachweis for the senior residence permit.", "inLanguage": "en", "step": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 1, "name": "Identify your retiree path", "text": "Non-EU senior residence permit (Care Expatriate, 6 months–5 years), short visit (Care Visa Protect, 1–92 days) or EU pensioner via S1 form to a Krankenkasse such as TK, AOK, Barmer or DAK-Gesundheit." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 2, "name": "Apply online and receive the bilingual certificate", "text": "Complete the online application; the German + English Krankenversicherungsnachweis is issued by email within minutes — ready for embassy and Ausländerbehörde." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 3, "name": "Submit at the German embassy or consulate", "text": "Upload the PDF in the visa portal or hand it in at the appointment for the senior national D-visa." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 4, "name": "Anmeldung within 14 days of arrival", "text": "Register the German address at the Bürgeramt — this unlocks the residence-permit appointment and any S1 enrolment for EU pensioners." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 5, "name": "Hand the certificate to the Ausländerbehörde", "text": "Under § 5 AufenthG the immigration office releases the senior Aufenthaltstitel once the bilingual proof is on file. Cover stays in place for up to 5 years on a single contract." } ], "totalTime": "PT15M", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "[data-howto='step']", "[data-aeo='answer']", "h1" ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Dataset", "name": "Care Expatriate — entry premiums for foreign retirees in Germany by age band and duration (2026)", "description": "Monthly premiums for the Care Expatriate Incoming health-insurance product used by foreign retirees in Germany to satisfy § 5 AufenthG for the senior residence permit and § 36 AufenthG parent reunification. From €68/month at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at entry age 61–74. Duration up to 60 months on a single contract.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/#prices", "inLanguage": "de", "isAccessibleForFree": true, "creator": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de" }, "license": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/", "measurementTechnique": "HanseMerkur AVB / Care Concept AG official tariff registry", "variableMeasured": [ "entry age band (41–60, 61–74)", "contract duration (1–60 months)", "monthly premium in EUR", "deductible in EUR (standard tier)", "repatriation cover (included within policy terms)" ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "ItemList", "@id": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/#guides-itemlist", "name": "All foreign-retiree health-insurance guides for Germany", "inLanguage": "en", "numberOfItems": 21, "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Residence permit for retirees — when health insurance matters", "description": "Why § 5 AufenthG makes the Krankenversicherungsnachweis the single gate to the senior Aufenthaltstitel.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/residence-permit-retirees-when-health-insurance-matters-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Which proofs are commonly required for retirees abroad", "description": "What the German embassy and the Ausländerbehörde typically check before the senior visa or residence permit is issued.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-retirees-abroad-which-proofs-common-required-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Immigration office — which details should appear on the certificate", "description": "Validity area, duration, repatriation, deductible — the fields a caseworker reads first.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/immigration-office-insurance-proof-which-details-should-appear-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Document checklist retirees commonly need at the authority", "description": "Pension proof, address, passport, insurance certificate — the file the Ausländerbehörde wants to see.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/checklist-which-documents-retirees-at-application-authority-common-need-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 5, "name": "Retirees without a permanent residence — proof at authority and embassy", "description": "How to evidence cover when the address line is still pending or when living between two countries.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-without-permanent-residence-health-insurance-proof-authority-embassy-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Retirees moving to Germany — when cover must already exist", "description": "The day-zero rule: cover starts on the date of entry, not on the date of the residence-permit appointment.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-moving-to-germany-when-insurance-cover-must-exist-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "After entry — must one prove insurance again at registration?", "description": "What the Bürgeramt and the Ausländerbehörde each check after the 14-day Anmeldung window.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-after-entry-must-one-prove-again-at-registration-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Return to Germany as a retiree — typical insurance steps", "description": "Long-time emigrants coming home — KVdR test, voluntary GKV, Care Expatriate fallback in three steps.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/return-to-germany-retirees-health-insurance-typical-steps-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Long-stay senior insurance — typical pitfalls checklist", "description": "Travel policy submitted instead of an Incoming product, end date too early, missing repatriation clause.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/long-stay-senior-health-insurance-typical-pitfalls-checklist-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 5, "name": "Common mistakes — proofs, deadlines, overview", "description": "Eight typical retiree-file mistakes — and the clean version the immigration office expects.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/common-mistakes-retirees-health-insurance-proofs-deadlines-overview-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Short visit by seniors — which coverage is commonly required", "description": "Schengen visit, family stay, holiday — Care Visa Protect vs Care Economy at a glance.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/short-visit-seniors-health-insurance-which-coverage-commonly-required-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Visiting family vs permanent residence — differences and proofs", "description": "How the proof requirement changes from the 90-day visit to the long-stay Aufenthaltstitel.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/visiting-family-parents-vs-permanent-residence-health-insurance-differences-proofs-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Retirees residing in Germany — when statutory vs private is typical", "description": "Why the KVdR 9/10 rule usually blocks foreign retirees from GKV — and what fills the gap.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-residence-germany-when-statutory-vs-private-typical-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Costs in old age — premiums, deductible, cost traps", "description": "Why senior premiums rise with age, how the deductible works, and how to avoid the classic cost traps.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/costs-in-age-premiums-deductible-cost-traps-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Retiree spouse — family insurance or own contract", "description": "When the spouse can join free of charge via Familienversicherung and when an own contract is required.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-spouse-health-insurance-family-insurance-or-own-contract-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Retiree spouse relocation — jointly or separately solution", "description": "How to plan the move and the insurance file when one partner follows months later.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-spouse-relocation-health-insurance-jointly-or-separately-solution-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Parent reunification — parents as retirees, typical requirements & proofs", "description": "§ 36 AufenthG family reunification of elderly parents — recognised Incoming cover and pension proof.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-parents-as-retirees-health-insurance-typical-requirements-proofs-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Pre-existing conditions — what is commonly checked when taking out cover", "description": "How insurers typically handle declared diseases and what the AVB say about waiting periods.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Retirees with chronic conditions — typical misconceptions to avoid", "description": "Diabetes, heart disease, oncology follow-up — what is generally covered, what is not.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-chronic-conditions-health-insurance-typical-misconceptions-avoid-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Care need — health insurance vs care insurance, differences short-explained", "description": "Krankenversicherung pays the doctor; Pflegeversicherung pays the carer. 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"https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-after-entry-must-one-prove-again-at-registration-germany/", "name": "After entry — must one prove insurance again at registration?" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 8, "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/return-to-germany-retirees-health-insurance-typical-steps-germany/", "name": "Return to Germany as a retiree — typical insurance steps" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 9, "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/long-stay-senior-health-insurance-typical-pitfalls-checklist-germany/", "name": "Long-stay senior insurance — typical pitfalls checklist" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 10, "url": 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"url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-chronic-conditions-health-insurance-typical-misconceptions-avoid-germany/", "name": "Retirees with chronic conditions — typical misconceptions to avoid" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 20, "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/care-need-health-insurance-vs-care-insurance-differences-short-explained-germany/", "name": "Care need — health insurance vs care insurance, differences short-explained" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 21, "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-and-medication-what-to-watch-out-for-neutral-overview-germany/", "name": "Health insurance and medication — what to watch out for" } ] } } ] --- EN [+49 228 97735-44](tel:+4922897735-44)· German & English spoken [Health Insurance for Foreigners in Germany ](/en/) - Foreigners in Germany - Visa & Schengen - Studies & Language School - Expats - Employees - Retirees - Blocked Account - Guides [All tariffs](/en/product-overview-germany/)[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/) [Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/) Language 🇩🇪 Deutsch 🇺🇸 English 🇸🇦 العربية Main areas 🌍 Foreigners in Germany [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — all foreigners in GermanyThe umbrella hub: every visa, every audience, recognised cover under § 5 AufenthG — start here. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Visa & SchengenFast insurance proof for embassy/foreigners' authority — short stays, Schengen visa, family visit. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Studies & Language SchoolAffordable long-term health insurance for international students, Studienkolleg, German courses, exchange students and PhD candidates. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Expats (long-term)Affordable long-term health insurance for expats, international skilled workers, freelancers and their families. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Employees (job start)Foreign employees, skilled workers with work visa, seasonal workers and people in the recognition procedure. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Retirees / parent reunificationAffordable long-term health insurance for foreign retirees, seniors and their partners, family visits. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/) More topics [Blocked account & visaAccepted for visa, Opportunity Card and university enrolment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[AustriaAffordable long-term health insurance for Austria. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Au-pair health insuranceAffordable health insurance for au-pairs in Germany, Austria & Switzerland — from €21/month. ](/en/au-pair-health-insurance-germany/)[Guides & FAQThe most common mistakes — and how to avoid them in 2 minutes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat does it really cost? Compare tariffs, prices and benefits. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) ✈️ Visa & Schengen [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — visa & SchengenThe visa umbrella hub: Schengen, national D-visa, short stay and family reunification at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Schengen visa (up to 90 days)Fast health insurance proof for the Schengen visa — meet embassy requirements and avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/schengen-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Short stay without visaAffordable health insurance for tourist and visa-free stays — easy, flexible and quick to apply online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/short-stay-health-insurance-germany/)[Visitors & parent visits (3 months to 5 years)Cover for visitors and parents — for stays from 3 months to 5 years, affordable and online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/foreign-visitors-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Family reunificationFamily reunification: the right insurance proof for partner & children — so the application doesn't fail on missing documents. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/family-reunification-which-health-insurance-is-commonly-required-germany/) Info & requirements [Insurance proof for the visaWhich insurance proofs embassies and immigration offices actually require. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/insurance-proof-visa-germany/)[Schengen insurance requirementsMinimum coverage, repatriation and validity area — so your proof doesn't fail on formalities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/requirements-schengen-health-insurance-germany/)[Documents & checklistWhich documents to prepare before the visa application — to avoid delays. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejectionThe most common mistakes with visa, proof and insurance — and what embassies pay particular attention to. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🎓 Studies & Language School [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — students & language schoolThe student umbrella hub: GKV, private student insurance, language course, Studienkolleg, exchange and PhD at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[International studentsAffordable health insurance for international students — with quick proof for enrolment, visa and study start. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Language school & German courseThe right insurance proof for language school & German course — so visa, embassy appointment and course start don't fail. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-language-course-before-study-differences-typical-mistakes-germany/)[StudienkollegAffordable health insurance for Studienkolleg — with quick proof for embassy, immigration office and course start, plus online application. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/preparatory-college-health-insurance-proof-registration-residence-germany/)[Exchange students & PhD candidatesSuitable health insurance for foreign exchange students & PhD candidates — for studies, exchange programmes, research and PhDs, with online application incl. insurance proof. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exchange-students-phd-students-health-insurance-germany/) Info & decisions [Statutory or private student insurance?Statutory health insurance or private student insurance? Find out what really fits your status and study path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/statutory-or-private-student-health-insurance-germany/)[Student visa & proofWhich insurance proofs really count for visa, university enrolment and authorities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-proof-enrollment-university-germany/)[GKV exemptionExemption from statutory insurance: what to know before deciding — so it doesn't become a problem later. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exemption-from-statutory-health-insurance-students-key-points-germany/)[Blocked account & study startHow blocked account, university enrolment and health insurance interact — so your study start isn't delayed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🏠 Expats [Overview →](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — expats long-termAffordable & long-term: 6–60 months, family, freelancers, GKV vs private. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Long-term expats in Germany (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Germany — with accepted proof. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/long-term-health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Long-term expats in Austria (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Austria — accepted by MA 35. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Expats with family (partner & children)Affordable long-term cover for partner & children — no surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-with-family-joint-planning-partner-children-typical-questions-and-mistakes-germany/)[Freelancers & self-employed without an employerNo employer? Affordable long-term option — GKV or private, clarified fast. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-foreign-self-employed-germany/)[Transition without a job (job search / change / termination)Job change or termination: affordable bridge — long-term cover continues. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-without-employer-during-job-search-how-to-stay-insured-germany/) Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits expats?Which health insurance fits as a long-term expat? Avoid mistakes — so registration works and you can see a doctor when needed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[GKV obligation or private solution? (quick check)Clear in 2 minutes: statutory obligation or private — so you don't commit to the wrong path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/private-vs-statutory-health-insurance-expats-which-factors-typically-matter-germany/)[Proofs for authorities (residence permit, registration, etc.)Get authority proofs right: avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/checklist-documents-immigration-office-expat-insurance-proof-deadlines-germany/)[Family & pregnancy: what to watch forAlready pregnant or planning? Common pitfalls in tariffs (waiting periods/benefits) — so there are no nasty surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/pregnancy-health-insurance-expats-proofs-costs-doctor-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) Other groups 💼 Employees [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — employees & job startThe employee umbrella hub: job start, Blue Card, job change, GKV obligation and employer proof. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Job start in GermanySo your job start works: the right health insurance + proof, fast and easy. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/)[Blue Card & skilled workersBlue Card & skilled workers: get insured properly, avoid mistakes — proof for employer and registration. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/bluecard-skilled-workers-health-insurance-proof-employer-registration-germany/)[Job change / new positionJob change made easy: stay insured, avoid mistakes, done quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/job-change-health-insurance-what-happens-with-insurance-and-prove-germany/)[Part-time, mini-job & probationPart-time/mini-job/probation: find the right health insurance — without a wrong decision. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/mini-job-midi-job-full-time-health-insurance-differences-germany/) Info & decisions [GKV registration step by stepGKV in 3 steps: error-free, step by step — so you finish quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-registration-step-by-step-employees-germany/)[What certificate does the employer need?Employer proof: which certificate is really required — explained quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/employer-asks-insurance-proof-what-must-one-submit-germany/)[GKV obligation: who must, who may choose?Who must join statutory insurance — and who may choose? Without mistakes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-requirement-who-must-who-may-foreigners-germany/)[Documents & checklist for the job startJob start checklist: documents, deadlines, next steps — so you don't forget anything. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🧓 Retirees [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — retirees & parentsThe retiree umbrella hub: parent reunification, seniors 60+, short visits and pre-existing conditions at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Parent reunification / bringing parents to Germany permanentlyBringing parents to Germany permanently: find the right health insurance — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-health-insurance-germany/)[Foreign retirees/parents 60+ in Germany (6 months to 5 years)For parents 60+: find the right long-term cover — so doctor, hospital and authority proofs don't become a problem. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/long-term-health-insurance-seniors-germany/)[Short stay / visiting children (up to 90 days)For parent visits up to 90 days: affordable health insurance for doctor & emergency — incl. proof, quick to apply online. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/short-visit-seniors-health-insurance-which-coverage-commonly-required-germany/)[Retirees with pre-existing conditions & medication (special cases)Pre-existing conditions or medication? We show what's possible — clearly explained, no false promises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/) Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits retirees? (quick overview)Find the right solution quickly for age, stay and proof — before you choose wrong. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[Statutory possible for retirees? Or rather private? (quick check)Statutory or private as a retiree? Clear in 2 minutes — so you don't decide wrongly. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/statutory-or-private-health-fund-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Proof for foreigners' authority & residence permit (checklist)Foreigners' authority: submit the proof correctly — avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/immigration-office-insurance-proof-which-details-should-appear-germany/)[Costs in old age: contributions, deductibles, typical pitfallsWhat does it really cost in old age? Contributions, deductibles and typical cost traps — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/costs-in-age-premiums-deductible-cost-traps-germany/)[Acceptance, exclusions & waiting periods (age/pre-existing)Age/pre-existing conditions: what's possible, what's excluded, what waiting periods apply — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🏦 Blocked Account [Overview →](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — blocked accountThe blocked account umbrella hub: student visa, application, timing and Opportunity Card at a glance. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Blocked account for the student visa (national visa D)Combine blocked account + health insurance correctly — so the visa appointment doesn't fail. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-student-visa-monthly-rate-logic-and-health-insurance-proof-germany/)[Blocked account + visa applicationWhich proofs belong together (blocked account, KV, documents) — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-and-health-insurance-for-visa-application-germany/)[Documents & checklist (blocked account)Which documents you really need — so nothing gets delayed. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-documents-checklist-providers-mistakes-the-delay-germany/)[Timing: when to open, when to take out insurance?Order & timing: blocked account + KV in time before the visa appointment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-timing-opening-and-health-insurance-taking-out-before-visa-appointment-germany/)[Opportunity Card / stay without studiesWhen the blocked account is used for other purposes: what to watch for. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/opportunity-card-residence-without-study-blocked-account-health-insurance-proofs-germany/) Info & decisions [Blocked account explained in 2 minutesWhat it is, what it's needed for, common misunderstandings. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Health insurance as proof for the visa (checklist)Which information must be on the proof — so the embassy/authority accepts it. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejection (queries / proof errors)Top mistakes + quick fix — so you don't have to resubmit. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/)[Which insurance fits at study start?How blocked account, university enrolment & health insurance interact. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/)[Blocked Account productIf you want to open the account directly: overview + application. ](/en/insurance-plans/blocked-account/overview/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 📚 Guides [Overview →](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — guides & FAQThe guides umbrella hub: all topics, FAQs and checklists on health insurance in Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Visa & residenceAvoid common mistakes before applying. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/)[StudentsWhich insurance fits enrolment and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/)[FAQShort answers to the most common questions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat to look out for in affordable tariffs. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/) More topics [ExpatsWhat matters during a longer stay. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[EmployeesHow employees avoid expensive wrong decisions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/)[Language course / German courseWhich insurance is needed for language course and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-language-course-german-course-germany/)[RetireesWhat retirees should watch for when moving to Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[StudienkollegSuitable cover for the time at Studienkolleg. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-preparatory-college-germany/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) [All tariffs](/en/product-overview-germany/)[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/) 1 Step 1/3: Check plan (you are here) › 2 Step 2/3: Get PDF proof › 3 Step 3/3: Submit to authority [See plans →](#tarife) [Care Expatriate (up to 5 years) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) 1. [Home](/en/) 2. [Guide to health insurance in Germany](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/) 3. Health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany 📑 On this page (11) - [→ What insurance the Ausländerbehörde accepts for senior visas](#what-is) - [→ The 4 most common retiree-proof mistakes](#problems) - [→ Recommended tariffs — long-stay vs short visit](#tarife) - [→ Prices — Care Expatriate by age band & duration](#prices) - [→ Which tariff for which retiree situation?](#scenarios) - [→ Step-by-step: from pension proof to residence permit](#step-by-step) - [→ All retiree guides (21 articles)](#topics) - [→ Glossary — retiree insurance terms](#glossary) - [→ Retiring to Germany — what to plan for](#retiring-to-germany) - [→ How German health insurance works for foreign retirees](#how-it-works-de) - [→ FAQ](#faq) As a rule, foreign retirees moving to Germany cannot enter the statutory pensioner fund (KVdR) — the 9/10 rule under § 5 SGB V blocks the route. The Ausländerbehörde decides the senior residence permit on a single document — the Krankenversicherungsnachweis under § 5 AufenthG. Caseworker discretion applies. ![Foreign retired couple in Germany with residence-permit file and bilingual health-insurance certificate](/assets/foreign-retirees-health-insurance-germany-hero-tUwdMRXZ.webp) Foreign retiree file with bilingual Krankenversicherungsnachweis ready for the Ausländerbehörde. # Foreign retirees in Germany — health insurance, residence permit and the Ausländerbehörde file Entry age 41–60: from €68/month Entry age 61–74: from €246/month 4.9/5 · 10,000+ policies since 2009 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) · Ausländerbehörde-ready bilingual PDF By **Steffan Grund** · Reviewed August 27, 2026 "Care Expatriate certificate cleared the Ausländerbehörde Berlin (LEA) for my mother (age 68) at first try." — R. K. (Berlin), parent reunification Quotes from internal customer feedback, anonymised and shortened. Quotes from internal customer feedback, anonymized and shortened. Individual case review applies; not legal or insurance advice. Plan: identify your retiree path → buy the recognised cover online in ~5 minutes → hand the bilingual certificate to the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. › **Trusted by foreign retirees relocating to Germany from** — show country list Pakistan (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore), India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai), Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Türkiye, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, China, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Ukraine, Russia, Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia, North Macedonia and Albania. Used since 2009 by foreign retirees relocating to Germany — typically accepted by the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG for the senior Aufenthaltstitel and for parent reunification. Accepted: § 5 AufenthG (residence permit) Parent reunification (AufenthG) Ausländerbehörde (typically) GDPR/EU Bilingual PDF (German + English) No upfront medical exam (within policy terms) No German bank account required Free re-issue for renewals & extensions [ Care Expatriate, Basic tier, HanseMerkur AVB Care Expatriate from €68/month (entry age 41–60) ⟷ Residence permit delay Ausländerbehörde appointments in Berlin, Munich and Hamburg typically run 6–12 weeks out ⟷ average DRG day-rate, DKG hospital statistics 2024 (Richtwert) German hospital day rate: ~€830/day (Indicative DKG hospital day-rate 2024 — varies by Bundesland and hospital) ](#tarife) No commitment · monthly cancellation · confirmation by email (typically immediate). Sources: § 5 AufenthG · Parent reunification (AufenthG) · KVdR 9/10 rule (SGB V) · EU Regulation 883/2004 (S1) · BAMF · HanseMerkur GTC · Care Concept AG General information based on the Aufenthaltsgesetz (AufenthG), the Sozialgesetzbuch V (SGB V), EU Regulation 883/2004 and our placements for foreign-retiree files since 2009 — not legal, tax or insurance advice; individual Ausländerbehörde and Krankenkasse caseworkers may decide case-by-case. Indicative: a denied senior residence-permit appointment typically pushes the next Ausländerbehörde slot 6–12 weeks out — Care Expatriate from €68/month at entry age 41–60 covers the same window. Individual case review applies; not legal or insurance advice. **As a rule, no recognised Krankenversicherungsnachweis — no senior Aufenthaltstitel.** What the German _Ausländerbehörde_ (immigration office) and the German embassy want to see depends on the retiree path — long-stay **senior residence permit** (§ 5 AufenthG), **parent reunification** (Aufenthaltsgesetz), short **family visit** (Schengen visa) or an EU pensioner enrolling at a Krankenkasse via the **S1 form** under EU Regulation 883/2004. A single short-dated certificate can mean weeks of waiting for a new appointment. The fix is product-led. For the long-stay senior residence permit (6 months to 5 years): [Care Expatriate from €68/month for ages 41–60](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) — recognised by the Ausländerbehörde for the senior Aufenthaltstitel and for parent reunification under the Aufenthaltsgesetz. Older entry ages 61–74 carry the higher senior premium shown in the price table below. For shorter bridges (1 day to 2 years) and for the family-visit window before the long-stay file is open: [Care Economy as the medium bridge](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/). EU pensioners with a state pension from France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Poland or any other EU/EEA country usually take the S1 route into a Krankenkasse (Techniker Krankenkasse, AOK, Barmer or [DAK-Gesundheit](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/overview/)) and have the home country reimburse the cost. Below: which certificate fields the Ausländerbehörde checks, the four retiree-proof mistakes we still see weekly, why the KVdR 9/10 rule usually blocks GKV for foreign retirees, the 21 deep guides for every retiree scenario, and the 16 questions retirees ask the most. Editor's note: since 2009 we have issued bilingual insurance certificates for foreign-retiree files at German embassies, the Ausländerbehörde and the parent-reunification desk. The two mistakes we still see weekly are (1) a home-country travel policy submitted in place of a residence-permit-compliant Incoming product, and (2) the assumption that the retiree can simply join the German GKV — which the 9/10 KVdR rule normally blocks. Both are avoidable — the checklists, price tables and step-by-step flow below show exactly which product, age band and certificate wording the Ausländerbehörde expects. Last reviewed by Steffan Grund on August 27, 2026. Senior Stay Coverage Options for visitors and long-stay seniors up to entry age 74 Visa & Residence Proof Proof for embassy, consulate or residence documents Online Application Receive confirmation after successful application ## What insurance the Ausländerbehörde accepts for the senior residence permit **Quick answer:** For the long-stay senior residence permit the cover must be comparable to German cover for the entire requested permit period under § 5 AufenthG. Travel insurance bought in the home country generally does not qualify. The statutory pensioner fund (KVdR) is usually not open to foreign retirees because of the 9/10 rule — caseworker discretion applies and the standard recognised alternative is Care Expatriate. Two products cover almost every foreign-retiree pathway to Germany. **Care Expatriate** for the long-stay senior residence permit (6 months to 5 years) and for parent reunification under § 36 AufenthG. **Care Economy** for the short bridge before the long-stay file is open and for the family-visit phase. Both ship a bilingual certificate (German + English) ready for the Ausländerbehörde and for the embassy visa portal — see the [BAMF](https://www.bamf.de/EN/) and [§ 5 AufenthG](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/aufenthg_2004/__5.html) for the official sources. Note on terminology: German authorities use "Krankenversicherungsnachweis" for the certificate the immigration office checks; the statutory pensioner system is called "KVdR — Krankenversicherung der Rentner". Care Expatriate ships a bilingual PDF that explicitly carries the wording the Ausländerbehörde expects for senior residence permits and parent reunification. ![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **September 7, 2026** Sources§ 5 AufenthG · § 7 AufenthG · § 36 AufenthG · § 5 SGB V (KVdR 9/10) · § 9 SGB V · EU Regulation 883/2004 (S1 form) · BAMF · Federal Foreign Office · HanseMerkur GTC · Care Concept AG 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Need a senior Ausländerbehörde-ready certificate today? [Care Expatriate (up to 5 years) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)[Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) [🔍 Plan Finder](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[📋 All Plans](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🏛️ Authority-approved 📄 Instant proof 🔒 DAK / HanseMerkur 🏷️ Transparent pricing 4.9/5 · Over 10,000 policies placed since 2009 from 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/), not independently verified · [How this rating works](/en/review-methodology/) Key facts at a glance Reviewed September 7, 2026 - **KVdR 9/10 rule:** to enter statutory pensioner insurance, at least 9 of the last 10 working years must have been in the German GKV — a test most foreign retirees fail. (Source: § 5 SGB V). - **Voluntary GKV after 55:** voluntary statutory membership is restricted under § 9 SGB V — late entry as a senior is generally not possible. (Source: § 9 SGB V). - **Care Expatriate senior brackets:** from €68/month at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at entry age 61–74 — age-based, not nationality-based. (Source: HanseMerkur AVB / Care Concept AG). - **S1 form for EU pensioners:** EU/EEA retirees with a state pension can register with a German Krankenkasse via the S1 form and have the home country reimburse the cost. (Source: EU Regulation 883/2004). ## 📌 TL;DR — at a glance - **Senior entry premium:** Care Expatriate from €68/month (ages 41–60) and from €246/month (ages 61–74) — recognised under § 5 AufenthG for the long-stay residence permit. - **Why GKV is usually out:** KVdR 9/10 rule (§ 5 SGB V) plus the § 9 SGB V restriction on voluntary GKV after 55 — most foreign retirees rely on Care Expatriate. - **Short visit cover:** Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (1–92 days, Schengen) or Care Economy for medium bridges (per-day, per-age-band — see price table). - **EU pensioner exception:** S1 form (EU Regulation 883/2004) routes pensioners from France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Greece etc. into GKV via a Krankenkasse (TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK-Gesundheit). - **Bilingual certificate:** German + English PDF by email in minutes — accepted by the Ausländerbehörde and the embassy visa portal. ## The 4 most common retiree-proof mistakes — and how each one is solved **Quick answer:** Four issues repeat at every senior Ausländerbehörde appointment and parent-reunification file: home-country travel policy instead of an Incoming product, certificate end date before the requested permit period, the GKV/KVdR assumption that fails the 9/10 rule, and missing per-person proof for the spouse. Travel policy submitted instead of Incoming Home-country travel insurance usually fails § 5 AufenthG — wrong validity area, wrong duration, missing repatriation. [Care Expatriate clears § 5 AufenthG →](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) Certificate ends before the permit period The Ausländerbehörde expects cover for the entire requested permit duration — a 3-month policy for a 24-month senior permit is rejected. [Care Expatriate covers up to 60 months →](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) "I'll just join the German GKV" — KVdR 9/10 rule fails Foreign retirees rarely meet § 5 SGB V (9 of last 10 years in GKV) — voluntary GKV after 55 is restricted under § 9 SGB V. [Statutory vs private for foreign retirees →](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-residence-germany-when-statutory-vs-private-typical-germany/) Parent reunification — one proof per parent Under § 36 AufenthG every parent needs an individual Krankenversicherungsnachweis for the full requested period. [Parent reunification proofs →](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-parents-as-retirees-health-insurance-typical-requirements-proofs-germany/) ## Avoid the mistakes that can delay your application ### Senior prices can surprise you Age matters. For seniors, rates can be much higher, so show age-based pricing before the visitor applies. ### Short visit or long stay? Care Visa Protect or Care Economy may fit visits; Care Expatriate may fit selected longer family-stay cases. ### Entry age limit matters Many options have an entry-age limit. Check eligibility before preparing visa or residence documents. ### Coverage gaps create stress Choose the coverage period carefully if travel dates, family visit length or residence timing are uncertain. ## Reality check: what happens without recognised retiree insurance ## One wrong insurance choice can cost you money, time and your application deadline A medical incident can become expensive fast — but the wrong certificate can also delay your visa, enrollment, residence permit or work start. 🏥 €500–€1,500 Emergency doctor visit One urgent doctor or emergency-room visit can already create a painful bill — before tests, medication or follow-up treatment are added. 🏨 €2,000–€10,000+ Hospital treatment If observation, surgery, overnight stay or specialist treatment is needed, costs can quickly move from hundreds to thousands of euros. 👴 Age changes everything Senior pricing and eligibility matter Older parents or seniors may face higher prices and entry-age limits, so the wrong choice can create surprises before applying. - Wrong or incomplete proof can delay your visa, enrollment or authority process. - Cheap home-country policies may miss the exact coverage, dates or repatriation wording required. - The cheapest policy can become expensive if it is the wrong proof for your situation. Before you apply, check: coverage amount, validity dates, destination area and repatriation cover. ## Anmeldung, residence permit, age band — why timing matters ## Why act before family visit or residence paperwork Older visitors often face age-based pricing and eligibility limits. Waiting too long can make the right option harder to choose. 👴 Age affects price Senior rates can be much higher, so check pricing before preparing documents. 📄 Entry-age limits matter Many incoming insurance options are only available up to a specific entry age. ⚡ Short visit or long stay? Care Visa Protect, Care Economy and Care Expatriate serve different stay lengths. ✅ Avoid coverage gaps Choose the coverage period carefully if family visit dates or residence timing are uncertain. ## What foreign retirees say about Care Concept for the senior Ausländerbehörde appointment 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) “ 5/5 > “My biggest worry was that the embassy wouldn't accept the insurance. > The proof was accepted immediately — no questions asked. > That saved me a lot of stress.” ![Georges from Cameroon](/assets/georges-kamerun-C6GQZGzu.jpg) Georges Cameroon “ 5/5 > “I needed proof of insurance urgently for my visa appointment. > The confirmation arrived within minutes by email. > Everything worked first time at the embassy.” ![Olga from Russia](/assets/olga-russland--B_6p7O-.jpg) Olga Russia “ 5/5 > “Found the best solution and best service for health insurance for foreign visitors and guests in Germany. > Fast, simple and affordable. > Highly recommended!” ![Michael from Germany](/assets/michael-deutschland-CFcwSzJg.jpg) Michael Germany “ 5/5 > “The online sign-up was done in just a few minutes. > When I actually had to see a doctor, the billing went smoothly. > I was really covered — not just on paper.” ![Yunhee from Australia](/assets/yunhee-australien-CaHyNO5z.jpg) Yunhee Australia ### Now choose your plan 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) ## Recommended health insurance — senior long-stay vs short visit Two Incoming products cover every foreign-retiree scenario — no brand jungle, no hidden cost. Long-stay senior residence permit and short Schengen visit. 👵 Senior residence permit · up to 5 years ### Care Expatriate from €246/month (ages 61–74) · from €68/month (ages 41–60) For foreign nationals with longer stays: expats, self-employed professionals, freelancers, employees on assignment without German statutory insurance, retirees & seniors up to age 74 - Proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities quickly available (PDF) - Coverage up to 5 years – less renewal stress - Doctor, hospital, prescription medication & dental treatment coverage - For longer stays in Germany, Austria, the EU/Schengen Area, Liechtenstein or Switzerland - Suitable for expats, self-employed professionals, freelancers, employees on assignment without German statutory insurance, retirees & seniors - More planning security for residence permits, projects or jobs - 24/7 assistance + digital insurance card - Age-based rates: from €58/month ages 13–40 · from €68 ages 41–60 · from €246 ages 61–74 - Coverage term: 3 months to 5 years · entry age 0–74 - Reputable insurance carrier Why Care Expatriate? For foreign nationals with longer stays who need solid health insurance and proof of coverage for authorities — suitable for expats, freelancers, self-employed professionals, employees on assignment without German statutory insurance, retirees & seniors up to age 74. Why a 5-year coverage term? More planning security: less renewal stress and a lower risk of a coverage gap if your stay lasts longer. - 🏛️ HanseMerkur Insurance Group Hamburg – Advigon Insurance AG - 📄 Instant proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities (PDF) - 🔒 Doctor, clinic, dental treatment & repatriation coverage - 🏷️ From €58 / month · coverage up to 5 years [Care Expatriate – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/apply/) → Complete the application, receive your instant PDF, submit your proof 🔄 Bridge · 1 day to 2 years ### Care Economy from only €30.00 / 30 days (coverage up to 2 years) For guests, tourists, family visits, job seekers & the German Opportunity Card - Proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities within minutes - Affordable coverage from €1.00 per day - Doctor, hospital & dental emergency coverage - Suitable for Schengen visas, the Opportunity Card & family visits - Flexible coverage from 1 day up to 2 years - Coverage in Germany, the EU & the Schengen Area - 24/7 assistance + digital insurance card - Age-based rates: from €1.00/day up to age 64 · from €2.95/day for ages 65–74 - Coverage term: 1 day to 2 years · entry age 0–74 - Reputable insurance carrier Why Care Economy? For anyone who needs fast, affordable proof of health insurance — ideal for guests, visitors, tourists, family visits or job seekers, with doctor/clinic coverage subject to the policy terms and benefits. Why a 2-year coverage term? More flexibility when plans are uncertain: if your visa, trip or stay is extended, you avoid last-minute renewal stress and reduce the risk of a coverage gap. - 🏛️ HanseMerkur Insurance Group Hamburg – Advigon Insurance AG - 📄 Instant proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities (PDF) - 🔒 Doctor, clinic, dental emergency & repatriation coverage - 🏷️ From €30 / 30 days · up to 2 years possible [Care Economy – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/apply/) → Complete the application, receive your instant PDF, submit your proof ## Care Expatriate — all prices by age band and duration (up to 5 years) **Quick answer:** For the long-stay senior residence permit, Care Expatriate is the standard Incoming product: from €68/month at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at entry age 61–74, recognised under § 5 AufenthG and renewable up to 60 months on a single contract. Care Expatriate worldwide without USA, Canada and Mexico Basic Bestseller Comfort Premium Deductible / yr 150,– Deductible / yr 150,– Deductible / yr 500,– Deductible / yr 0,– Deductible / yr 500,– Deductible / yr 1.000,– Entry age: 0–12 (€ / month) 64,– 104,– 81,– 191,– 149,– 117,– Entry age: 13–40 (€ / month) 58,– 84,– 63,– 181,– 141,– 109,– Entry age: 41–60 (€ / month) 68,– 103,– 77,– 256,– 201,– 156,– Entry age: 61–74 (€ / month) 246,– 322,– 248,– 432,– 336,– 263,– All prices per month/person in euros. Deductible applies per insurance year. As of 2026. [Care Expatriate — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) ### Care Economy — bridge prices (1 day to 2 years) **Quick answer:** Care Economy is the medium-term bridge cover for the gap before the long-stay senior file is open and for the family-visit phase. Prices are per day, per age band and per chosen duration block. Care Economy Duration Bestseller up to 64 up to 64 Bestseller 65+ 65+ no deductible with deductible no deductible with deductible up to 90 days €1.18/day €1.00/day €3.48/day €2.95/day 91–180 days €1.59/day €1.35/day €4.37/day €3.70/day 181–365 days €2.30/day €1.95/day €5.84/day €4.95/day 366–730 days €2.83/day €2.40/day €9.32/day €7.90/day All prices per day/person in euros. Minimum premium €10 per person and term. Deductible is the share you pay yourself. Entry age 0–74. As of 2026. [Care Economy — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) ## Which tariff for which retiree situation? **Quick answer:** Use this matrix to map the retiree path — senior residence permit (§ 5 / § 7 AufenthG), parent reunification (§ 36 AufenthG), short family visit, EU pensioner with S1 — to the product and entry price most commonly used. Your situation Recommended tariff From Senior residence permit, age 41–60 (6 months – 5 years) [Care Expatriate](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) from €68/mo Senior residence permit, age 61–74 (6 months – 5 years) [Care Expatriate](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) from €246/mo Parent reunification (§ 36 AufenthG) — per parent [Care Expatriate per parent](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) from €68/mo Short family visit, up to 92 days (Schengen) [Care Visa Protect](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) from €0.85/day Medium bridge (1 day – 2 years) — pre long-stay file [Care Economy](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) EU pensioner with state pension (France, Italy, Spain, Poland …) S1 form → Krankenkasse (TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK-Gesundheit) home-country rate Returnee retiree (German citizen back from abroad, age 67+) [Care Expatriate (KVdR usually blocked)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) from €246/mo Not sure which fits? [Try the 30-second tariff finder](/en/tariffinder-germany/). Foreign retirees relocating to Germany from the United States (Florida, California, Texas, New York), Canada (Toronto, Vancouver), the United Kingdom (London, Manchester), Ireland (Dublin), France (Paris, Lyon), Spain (Madrid, Barcelona), Italy (Rome, Milan), Portugal (Lisbon), the Netherlands (Amsterdam), Switzerland (Zurich, Geneva), Australia (Sydney, Melbourne), New Zealand (Auckland), Israel (Tel Aviv), India (Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru), Pakistan (Karachi, Lahore), Turkey (Istanbul, Izmir), Russia (Moscow), Ukraine (Kyiv), Brazil (São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro), Argentina (Buenos Aires), Mexico (Mexico City), Iran (Tehran), Egypt (Cairo), Morocco (Casablanca), Nigeria (Lagos), Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City), China (Shanghai, Beijing), the Philippines (Manila), Japan (Tokyo), South Korea (Seoul), Thailand (Bangkok), Indonesia (Jakarta) and South Africa (Cape Town) regularly use [Care Expatriate](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) for the senior Aufenthaltstitel and for parent reunification under § 36 AufenthG. Pricing is age-based, not nationality-based; the same monthly premium applies worldwide. ## Step-by-step: from pension proof to senior Aufenthaltstitel ## Family visit or longer stay in 3 steps Options for short visits or longer family stays up to entry age 74. 1. 1 🎯 Choose your plan Care Economy for visits up to 2 years · Care Expatriate for longer stays or family-reunification scenarios up to 5 years. 2. 2 📝 Complete the application Enter passport, travel/stay and visa or residence details online. Additional information may be required depending on the plan. 3. 3 ✅ Receive your proof Receive insurance proof after successful application and submit it with your visa or residence documents. **Quick answer:** The clean foreign-retiree flow runs from the pension proof to the residence permit in five steps — pick the cover, apply online, fly in, register at the Bürgeramt, hand the bilingual certificate to the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. 1. **Identify your retiree path.** Senior residence permit, parent reunification (§ 36 AufenthG), short Schengen visit or EU pensioner with S1 — the choice of product follows directly. 2. **Apply online.** 5 minutes — name, date of birth, planned entry date, requested duration. No upfront medical exam within policy terms. 3. **Receive the bilingual certificate.** The Krankenversicherungsnachweis (German + English) arrives by email within minutes. 4. **Submit at the German embassy.** Upload in the visa portal or hand in at the senior D-visa appointment, together with pension proof and address documents. 5. **Anmeldung within 14 days.** Register the German address at the Bürgeramt — book the slot the same day you sign the lease. This step unlocks the residence-permit appointment and any S1 enrolment. 6. **Ausländerbehörde appointment.** Hand the same bilingual certificate under § 5 AufenthG — the senior Aufenthaltstitel is issued for up to 5 years. 7. **EU pensioner only — S1 enrolment.** EU/EEA retirees forward the S1 form to a German Krankenkasse (TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK-Gesundheit) and have the home country reimburse the cost; Pflegeversicherung becomes mandatory in parallel. ## All foreign-retiree guides — 21 deep dives The complete library on every retiree-insurance question — grouped by topic so you can jump straight to the one that matches your file. ### Residence permit, immigration office & embassy proofs - → [Residence permit for retirees — when health insurance matters](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/residence-permit-retirees-when-health-insurance-matters-germany/)Why § 5 AufenthG makes the Krankenversicherungsnachweis the single gate to the senior Aufenthaltstitel. - → [Which proofs are commonly required for retirees abroad](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-retirees-abroad-which-proofs-common-required-germany/)What the German embassy and the Ausländerbehörde typically check before the senior visa or residence permit is issued. - → [Immigration office — which details should appear on the certificate](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/immigration-office-insurance-proof-which-details-should-appear-germany/)Validity area, duration, repatriation, deductible — the fields a caseworker reads first. - → [Document checklist retirees commonly need at the authority](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/checklist-which-documents-retirees-at-application-authority-common-need-germany/)Pension proof, address, passport, insurance certificate — the file the Ausländerbehörde wants to see. - → [Retirees without a permanent residence — proof at authority and embassy](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-without-permanent-residence-health-insurance-proof-authority-embassy-germany/)How to evidence cover when the address line is still pending or when living between two countries. ### Moving to Germany, Anmeldung & timing - → [Retirees moving to Germany — when cover must already exist](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-moving-to-germany-when-insurance-cover-must-exist-germany/)The day-zero rule: cover starts on the date of entry, not on the date of the residence-permit appointment. - → [After entry — must one prove insurance again at registration?](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-after-entry-must-one-prove-again-at-registration-germany/)What the Bürgeramt and the Ausländerbehörde each check after the 14-day Anmeldung window. - → [Return to Germany as a retiree — typical insurance steps](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/return-to-germany-retirees-health-insurance-typical-steps-germany/)Long-time emigrants coming home — KVdR test, voluntary GKV, Care Expatriate fallback in three steps. - → [Long-stay senior insurance — typical pitfalls checklist](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/long-stay-senior-health-insurance-typical-pitfalls-checklist-germany/)Travel policy submitted instead of an Incoming product, end date too early, missing repatriation clause. - → [Common mistakes — proofs, deadlines, overview](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/common-mistakes-retirees-health-insurance-proofs-deadlines-overview-germany/)Eight typical retiree-file mistakes — and the clean version the immigration office expects. ### Short visits vs permanent residence - → [Short visit by seniors — which coverage is commonly required](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/short-visit-seniors-health-insurance-which-coverage-commonly-required-germany/)Schengen visit, family stay, holiday — Care Visa Protect vs Care Economy at a glance. - → [Visiting family vs permanent residence — differences and proofs](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/visiting-family-parents-vs-permanent-residence-health-insurance-differences-proofs-germany/)How the proof requirement changes from the 90-day visit to the long-stay Aufenthaltstitel. ### GKV vs PKV — statutory or private for foreign retirees - → [Retirees residing in Germany — when statutory vs private is typical](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-residence-germany-when-statutory-vs-private-typical-germany/)Why the KVdR 9/10 rule usually blocks foreign retirees from GKV — and what fills the gap. - → [Costs in old age — premiums, deductible, cost traps](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/costs-in-age-premiums-deductible-cost-traps-germany/)Why senior premiums rise with age, how the deductible works, and how to avoid the classic cost traps. ### Spouse, family & parent reunification - → [Retiree spouse — family insurance or own contract](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-spouse-health-insurance-family-insurance-or-own-contract-germany/)When the spouse can join free of charge via Familienversicherung and when an own contract is required. - → [Retiree spouse relocation — jointly or separately solution](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-spouse-relocation-health-insurance-jointly-or-separately-solution-germany/)How to plan the move and the insurance file when one partner follows months later. - → [Parent reunification — parents as retirees, typical requirements & proofs](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-parents-as-retirees-health-insurance-typical-requirements-proofs-germany/)§ 36 AufenthG family reunification of elderly parents — recognised Incoming cover and pension proof. ### Pre-existing conditions, chronic illness & medication - → [Pre-existing conditions — what is commonly checked when taking out cover](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/)How insurers typically handle declared diseases and what the AVB say about waiting periods. - → [Retirees with chronic conditions — typical misconceptions to avoid](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-chronic-conditions-health-insurance-typical-misconceptions-avoid-germany/)Diabetes, heart disease, oncology follow-up — what is generally covered, what is not. - → [Care need — health insurance vs care insurance, differences short-explained](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/care-need-health-insurance-vs-care-insurance-differences-short-explained-germany/)Krankenversicherung pays the doctor; Pflegeversicherung pays the carer. Why both matter at 65+. - → [Health insurance and medication — what to watch out for](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-and-medication-what-to-watch-out-for-neutral-overview-germany/)Neutral overview of the Zuzahlung, the e-prescription and the import rules for foreign drugs. ## Glossary — retiree insurance terms **Quick answer:** Eight terms appear in nearly every senior Ausländerbehörde appointment, parent-reunification file and Krankenkasse letter. Mastering them shortens the paperwork from days to one afternoon. Aufenthaltstitel for retirees (§ 7 AufenthG) Residence permit granted to non-EU retirees with a secure pension, adequate housing and recognised health insurance for the entire requested permit period. The Ausländerbehörde reads the Krankenversicherungsnachweis first. KVdR — Krankenversicherung der Rentner (9/10 rule) Statutory pensioner health insurance under § 5 SGB V. Foreign retirees moving to Germany typically fail the 9/10 test — they must have spent at least 9 out of the last 10 working years insured in the German GKV. When the test fails, voluntary GKV is usually not possible and a recognised Incoming product such as Care Expatriate takes over. S1 form (EU Regulation 883/2004) Portable document issued by an EU/EEA pension authority that lets retirees with an EU state pension register with a German Krankenkasse and have their home country reimburse the cost. Only relevant for retirees drawing an EU/EEA/Switzerland pension; non-EU retirees use Care Expatriate. Krankenversicherungsnachweis German-language proof of health insurance — the single document the Ausländerbehörde checks before deciding on the senior residence permit. Bilingual PDF (German + English) is the standard format that caseworkers accept on the day of the appointment. Parent reunification (§ 36 AufenthG) Family reunification of elderly parents of an adult child living in Germany. Granted in cases of hardship; the application requires recognised health insurance, secure housing and proof of subsistence. Care Expatriate per parent is the standard cover route until any GKV path is confirmed. Pflegeversicherung (long-term care insurance) Mandatory long-term care insurance under SGB XI — runs in parallel with GKV or PKV. For foreign retirees on a German Incoming product the long-term care benefit set is typically not included to the same extent; private supplementary cover (Pflegezusatzversicherung) closes the gap. Familienversicherung (family co-insurance) Statutory family co-insurance under § 10 SGB V: spouse and children without their own income are co-insured free of charge — only available when the main insured retiree is statutorily insured in the GKV, which most foreign retirees are not after failing the 9/10 KVdR rule. EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) Card issued by an EU/EEA sickness fund that covers medically necessary treatment during short visits — does NOT count as proof for the long-stay residence permit. Useful only for the 90-day visit, not for permanent relocation. ## Retiring to Germany — what foreign retirees actually need to plan for **Quick answer:** Moving to Germany as a retiree means lining up four pieces in parallel — a residence-permit pathway, a recognised health-insurance certificate, a German address for the Anmeldung, and a realistic monthly budget. The standard retirement age in Germany is 67 (lower for long-insured employees under Deutsche Rentenversicherung rules), but the German Aufenthaltsgesetz does not set a minimum or maximum age for the long-stay senior residence permit under § 7 AufenthG — what matters is a secure pension, adequate housing and health-insurance proof that the Ausländerbehörde recognises. ### Pathways and residency Most non-EU readers asking how to move to Germany as a retiree arrive on a national long-stay D-visa from the German embassy in their home country and then convert it to a residence permit at the local Ausländerbehörde. There is no dedicated German retirement visa, so the file is built around § 7 AufenthG (general residence permit) or § 36 AufenthG (parent reunification when an adult child already lives in Germany). Americans, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders, South Africans and Israelis can typically enter visa-free and apply for the residence permit from inside Germany; British, Brazilian, Mexican and Japanese citizens follow similar entry rules. EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners do not need a residence permit at all — they relocate freely and enrol via the S1 form. The German residence permit for retirees is usually issued for one year initially, extendable in three- or five-year blocks (caseworker discretion applies). ### Cost of living and pension proof For the cost of living a useful Richtwert is roughly 1,500 to 2,500 EUR per month for a single retiree in mid-sized German cities, and 2,500 to 3,500 EUR in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Frankfurt — rent dominates that range. Embassies and the Ausländerbehörde often look for around 1,000 to 1,500 EUR of net pension per person as a starting reference, plus the monthly Krankenversicherung premium in the senior age bands referenced above. Foreign pensions are typically taxable in Germany once you become a tax resident, but the relevant Doppelbesteuerungsabkommen (double taxation agreement) — for example the US–Germany, UK–Germany or Canada–Germany DBA — decides which country taxes which slice. Not tax advice; speak to a Steuerberater (German tax adviser) for your file. ### Retirement age in Germany — at a glance (2026) Pathway Standard age Note Standard old-age pension (Regelaltersrente) 67 Born from 1964 onward — full statutory retirement age in Germany. Early retirement (Altersrente für langjährig Versicherte) 63 Deductions of roughly 0.3 % per month brought forward. Long-insured (45 contribution years) 65 No deductions — Deutsche Rentenversicherung rule for very long careers. Source: Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV). Indicative figures; individual case review applies — not pension or legal advice. ### First weeks in Germany — practical checklist The first weeks after moving to Germany run on a fixed sequence: sign the rental contract, register the address at the Bürgeramt within 14 days (Anmeldung), open a German bank account once the Meldebescheinigung is in hand, request the Rentenversicherungsnummer (pension number) and the Steuer-ID, then book the Ausländerbehörde appointment with the Care Expatriate bilingual certificate, pension proof and rental contract. EU/EEA pensioners use the same Bürgeramt step and then forward the S1 form to a Krankenkasse (TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK-Gesundheit) for an eGK — the electronic health card the Hausarzt (family doctor) and Facharzt (specialist) scan at every visit. Bürgergeld (basic income support) is not available to non-EU retirees on a § 7 AufenthG permit, so the pension proof must be self-sustaining. ## How German health insurance works for foreign retirees — KVdR, S1 and Incoming **Quick answer:** Healthcare in Germany is not free — every resident, including retirees, is required by law to carry health insurance. For most foreign retirees the entry product is a German Incoming policy such as Care Expatriate, because the statutory pensioner fund (KVdR) requires 9 out of the last 10 working years inside the German GKV — a test that arriving retirees almost never meet. Individual case review applies; not legal or insurance advice. On the statutory side, the KVdR sits inside the gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) under § 5 SGB V. Contributions are calculated on the pension and any additional income; long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung) runs on top under SGB XI at roughly 3.4 % to 4.0 %. Spouse and children without their own income can be co-insured free of charge under family co-insurance (Familienversicherung, § 10 SGB V) — but only if the retiree is statutorily insured in the first place, which the 9/10 rule usually prevents for foreign arrivals. On the private side, Care Expatriate and similar German Incoming products price by age band, not by income. The senior premium grows in two steps: from €68/month at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at entry age 61–74. There is no deductible in the standard tier; repatriation in case of serious illness or death is included within the policy terms — one of the wording items the German embassy specifically checks for the senior visa file. EU/EEA/Swiss retirees have a third route: the **S1 form** under EU Regulation 883/2004. Issued by the home pension authority (CPAM in France, INPS in Italy, INSS in Spain, ZUS in Poland, EFKA in Greece, etc.), it lets the retiree register with a German Krankenkasse such as Techniker Krankenkasse, AOK, Barmer or DAK-Gesundheit, while the home country reimburses the cost. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does NOT replace this — EHIC covers short visits only and is never enough proof for the long-stay residence permit. ### Which sickness fund for S1 retirees — TK vs AOK vs Barmer vs DAK-Gesundheit All statutory sickness funds offer the same legally defined benefit package — for EU pensioners using the S1 route the choice is about service, language and onboarding speed. The table below is a neutral overview. For non-EU foreign retirees the typical answer is Care Expatriate, not a Krankenkasse. Krankenkasse English service S1 / EU pensioner Notes for retirees Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) Yes — English app and hotline Yes Most-chosen fund among English-speaking EU pensioners; broad doctor network. AOK (regional) Limited — region-dependent Yes Strong regional branch network — useful for retirees in smaller German towns. Barmer Partial English Yes Popular with retiree couples; well-known telemedicine partner. DAK-Gesundheit Yes — dedicated international desk Yes Standard pick for S1 retirees moving to Berlin, Munich, Hamburg or Frankfurt. Other names you may encounter while comparing the German private health insurance market for foreign retirees include HanseMerkur, Allianz, ARAG, Mawista, Feather and Hallesche — neutral mentions, not recommendations. The bilingual Incoming products listed on this hub (Care Expatriate, Care Economy, Care Visa Protect) are issued by HanseMerkur and Care Concept AG. ## Frequently asked questions — health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany ## Frequently Asked Questions How much does health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany typically cost? As a rule, from €68/month for Care Expatriate at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at entry age 61–74. The senior premium follows age, not nationality. For short visits (up to 92 days, Schengen) Care Visa Protect starts at €0.85/day; for medium bridges Care Economy applies on a per-day, per-age-band basis (see the price table below). Statutory pensioner cover (KVdR) is generally not available to foreign retirees who fail the 9/10 rule — Care Expatriate is the standard long-term answer. Individual case review applies; not legal or insurance advice. Can foreign retirees join the German statutory health fund (GKV / KVdR)? Voluntary GKV membership after age 55 is also restricted under § 9 SGB V. Usually not. The KVdR (Krankenversicherung der Rentner) requires that the pensioner spent at least 9 out of the last 10 working years insured in the German statutory system — a test most foreign retirees fail. The standard fallback that the Ausländerbehörde recognises is Care Expatriate as a long-stay Incoming product. Retirees drawing an EU/EEA pension can use the S1 form under EU Regulation 883/2004 to register with a Krankenkasse and have the home country reimburse the cost. Does the Ausländerbehörde accept Care Expatriate for the retiree residence permit? Care Expatriate is regularly recognised under § 5 AufenthG as proof of health insurance for the Aufenthaltstitel granted to foreign retirees and for parent reunification under § 36 AufenthG. Yes — as a rule. The bilingual certificate (German + English) issued after the online application is the document caseworkers expect to see. Individual case review applies; not legal advice. When must the cover already exist for the retiree moving to Germany? Care Expatriate and Care Economy issue the bilingual certificate by email within minutes after the online application — most retirees book the cover 2 to 4 weeks before the flight. From the date of entry. The Ausländerbehörde, the German embassy and the Bürgeramt all expect the start date on the Krankenversicherungsnachweis to be no later than the day the retiree crosses the German border. What about pre-existing conditions — are diabetes, hypertension or cancer follow-up covered? Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Care Expatriate covers acute, unforeseen treatment within the policy terms. Chronic and pre-existing conditions are generally subject to AVB exclusions and waiting periods — the binding answer is the official insurance terms (AVB / GTC) issued with the bilingual certificate. For complex case histories we recommend a personal pre-check before applying. Not medical advice; individual case review applies. Does Care Expatriate cover long-term care (Pflegebedürftigkeit)? Once a foreign retiree manages to enter GKV via the S1 form (EU pensioners), Pflegeversicherung is mandatory and runs alongside. The standard Incoming product covers acute medical treatment, not the long-term care benefits of the German Pflegeversicherung (SGB XI). For retirees with a high probability of care needs we recommend reviewing a private supplementary care policy (Pflegezusatzversicherung) in parallel. How long can a foreign retiree stay on Care Expatriate? Up to 60 months (5 years) on a single contract — the longest single-policy duration on the German Incoming market. The cover renews on the same terms within the age band; once the retiree changes age band (e.g. 60 → 61), the new entry-age premium applies at renewal. The bilingual certificate is reissued for every extension at the Ausländerbehörde. What insurance proof does parent reunification (§ 36 AufenthG) require? Care Expatriate per parent is the standard product because it scales to 5 years, is recognised by the Ausländerbehörde and requires no German bank account at policy start. An individual Krankenversicherungsnachweis per parent that covers the entire requested permit period — same standard as for the regular senior Aufenthaltstitel. The application file usually also includes pension proof, adequate housing and a declaration of subsistence by the resident child. Is the EHIC card from my home country enough for the residence permit? The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers medically necessary treatment during a short visit but does not satisfy § 5 AufenthG for the long-stay senior residence permit. Generally no. The Ausländerbehörde expects either a recognised Incoming product (Care Expatriate) or a German Krankenkasse Mitgliedsbescheinigung issued under the S1 form for EU pensioners. Does the foreign spouse get free family co-insurance once the retiree is in Germany? Only when the retiree is statutorily insured in the German GKV — which most foreign retirees are not after failing the KVdR 9/10 rule. In the typical case the foreign retiree couple holds two individual Care Expatriate contracts; the premium is age-based per person. Free Familienversicherung (§ 10 SGB V) becomes available only via an S1 form (EU pensioners) or via the spouse being on a German payroll. What if the retiree is over 74 — can they still get Care Expatriate? Care Expatriate accepts new applicants up to entry age 74. Retirees aged 75 and above typically need a personal pre-check — possible alternatives include continued cover with an existing foreign insurer, narrower bridge cover (Care Economy or Care Visa Protect for short visits up to 92 days) or specialised senior policies on the German market. Personal advice is strongly recommended in this age band. Does Care Expatriate include repatriation in case of serious illness or death? Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Yes, within the policy terms. Medically necessary repatriation to the home country and, in case of death, transfer of the deceased are part of the AVB. This is also one of the wording items the German embassy specifically checks for the retiree visa — short travel insurance policies often fail exactly this point. Travel insurance bought in my home country — is it enough for the retiree visa file? Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Generally no. Travel insurance (Reisekrankenversicherung) bought in the home country usually fails the § 5 AufenthG test because the validity area, the duration and the repatriation wording do not match what the Ausländerbehörde expects. Care Expatriate (long-stay residence permit) and Care Economy (medium bridge) are the standard German-side substitutes — the bilingual certificate clears both the embassy visa portal and the immigration office counter. How fast does the bilingual Krankenversicherungsnachweis arrive after the online application? Typically within minutes — 3 to 7 minutes for Care Expatriate, Care Economy and Care Visa Protect. The PDF is in German and English, ready to upload to the embassy visa portal, to print for the airport or to hand in at the Ausländerbehörde counter. No upfront medical exam within policy terms; no German bank account required to start the policy. Is healthcare in Germany free for retirees? Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. No. Healthcare in Germany is not free — every resident, including retirees, must carry health insurance, either statutory (GKV/KVdR) or private (PKV/Incoming). Once insured, most everyday treatment feels close to free because the sickness fund or insurer pays the doctor directly and the patient only sees a small copayment (Zuzahlung) for prescriptions and a few hospital days per year. Foreign retirees without GKV access typically rely on Care Expatriate as the recognised long-term answer. How does German health insurance work for foreign retirees arriving from abroad? (1) EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners can use the S1 form (EU Regulation 883/2004) to enrol with a German Krankenkasse (TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK-Gesundheit) and have their home country reimburse the cost. Three pathways exist. (2) Non-EU retirees almost always fail the KVdR 9/10 rule and the voluntary GKV is restricted after age 55 (§ 9 SGB V) — Care Expatriate is the standard recognised Incoming product, from €68/month at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at 61–74. (3) Short visits up to 92 days use Care Visa Protect (Schengen) or Care Economy (medium bridge). Individual case review applies. What is the difference between health insurance and long-term care insurance for retirees? Long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung, SGB XI) pays for help with daily activities once a care level (Pflegegrad 1–5) is recognised — meals, hygiene, mobility, dementia support. Health insurance (Krankenversicherung) pays the doctor, the hospital and the prescription drug — Care Expatriate, GKV or PKV. For foreign retirees on Care Expatriate the long-term care benefit set is typically not included; private supplementary cover (Pflegezusatzversicherung) is the usual answer. Both insurances are mandatory once a retiree is enrolled in the German statutory system via the S1 form. Can Americans retire to Germany? Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. Yes — and Americans are one of the largest groups we see relocating to Germany as retirees. There is no dedicated US retirement visa, so most US citizens enter on a national long-stay D-visa and apply for a residence permit under § 7 AufenthG once registered at the Bürgeramt. The Ausländerbehörde expects three things in the file: a recognised health-insurance certificate (Care Expatriate is the standard answer because the KVdR 9/10 rule blocks the statutory route), proof of a secure pension or sufficient assets, and an adequate German address. The US–Germany double taxation agreement governs how a US pension is taxed once you become a German tax resident — speak to a qualified tax adviser; individual case review applies, not tax or legal advice. Does Germany have a retirement visa? Both routes require the same insurance proof — a Krankenversicherungsnachweis recognised under § 5 AufenthG that covers the full requested permit period. Germany does not issue a named retirement visa, but it does grant a long-stay residence permit for retirees under § 7 AufenthG (general residence permit for any non-listed purpose) and, where parents join an adult child, under § 36 AufenthG (parent reunification). For non-EU retirees Care Expatriate is the cover most caseworkers accept; for EU/EEA pensioners the S1 form under EU Regulation 883/2004 routes the file through a German Krankenkasse instead. Individual case review applies. How much money do I need to retire in Germany? For couples add roughly 50 to 70 percent on top. As a rule of thumb a single retiree budgets roughly 1,500 to 2,500 EUR per month in mid-sized German cities, and 2,500 to 3,500 EUR per month in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg or Frankfurt — covering rent, food, transport, leisure and the Krankenversicherung premium. Health insurance is a fixed line item: from €68/month for Care Expatriate at entry age 41–60 and from €246/month at 61–74. Pension proof for the residence permit is checked by the Ausländerbehörde against this expected cost of living; embassies often look for around 1,000 to 1,500 EUR of net pension per person as a starting reference. These are indicative figures (Richtwert) — not financial advice; individual case review applies. ![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **September 7, 2026** Sources§ 5 AufenthG · § 7 AufenthG · § 36 AufenthG · § 5 SGB V (KVdR 9/10) · § 9 SGB V · SGB XI (Pflegeversicherung) · EU Regulation 883/2004 (S1) · BAMF · Federal Foreign Office · HanseMerkur GTC · Care Concept AG 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Ready for the senior Ausländerbehörde appointment? Pick your plan. [Care Expatriate (up to 5 years) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)[Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) [🔍 Plan Finder](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[📋 All Plans](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🏛️ Authority-approved 📄 Instant proof 🔒 DAK / HanseMerkur 🏷️ Transparent pricing Editorial guidance only. Embassy and immigration-office requirements can vary by consulate, city and individual file; final acceptance always rests with the responsible authority. [Imprint (German)](/impressum/)[Privacy (German)](/datenschutz/)[Contact (German)](/kontakt/) Copyright © 2026 Health insurance for foreigners, foreign guests and visitors in Germany and the EU. All rights reserved. All information without guarantee, errors excepted. Note: The content of this site is for general information and orientation purposes only. It does not constitute legal or insurance advice. For binding information, please contact the responsible Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' authority) or a lawyer. Last updated: September 7, 2026.