--- title: "From €246/mo – retiree document checklist Ausländerbehörde" description: "Foreign retirees: the documents the German Ausländerbehörde commonly wants (passport, Anmeldung, pension proof, insurance) — cover from €246/mo (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": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de", "alternateName": [ "Krankenversicherung Ausländer Deutschland", "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "Health insurance for foreigners in Germany", "Insurance for expats in Germany", "Insurance for international students in Germany" ], "logo": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/logo.jpg", "image": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/og/og-krankenversicherung-auslaender.webp", "areaServed": [ "DE", "AT", "EU" ], "audience": { "@type": "Audience", "audienceType": "Foreigners, expats, international students and visa applicants in Germany", "geographicArea": { "@type": "Country", "name": "DE" } }, "knowsAbout": [ "Krankenversicherung Ausländer Deutschland", "Schengen-Visum Krankenversicherung", "Studentische Krankenversicherung", "Expat Krankenversicherung", "Incoming-Versicherung", "Sperrkonto Deutschland" ], "contactPoint": { "@type": "ContactPoint", "telephone": "+49 228 97735-44", "contactType": "customer service", "availableLanguage": [ "German", "English" ] }, "sameAs": [ "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q316831", "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krankenversicherung", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_insurance" ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "jobTitle": "Versicherungsexperte für Krankenversicherung Ausländer", "knowsAbout": [ "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer in Deutschland", "Schengen-Visum Krankenversicherung", "GKV-Befreiung Studenten", "Aufenthaltstitel Krankenversicherung", "Incoming-Versicherung" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "InsuranceAgency", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de" }, "url": "/impressum/", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" ] }, [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Checklist — which documents foreign retirees commonly need at the German Ausländerbehörde", "description": "Foreign retirees: the documents the German Ausländerbehörde commonly wants (passport, Anmeldung, pension proof, insurance) — cover from €246/mo (61–74).", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" ] }, "reviewedBy": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" ] }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/logo.jpg" }, "sameAs": [ "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q316831", "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krankenversicherung", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_insurance" ] }, "datePublished": "2026-08-29", "dateModified": "2026-08-28", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/checklist-which-documents-retirees-at-application-authority-common-need-germany/" }, "image": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/og/og-krankenversicherung-auslaender.webp", "about": [], "mentions": [ { "@type": "Thing", "name": "European Health Insurance Card", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Health_Insurance_Card" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "GKV-Spitzenverband", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statutory_health_insurance" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Private Krankenversicherung (Private health insurance in Germany)", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_insurance_in_Germany" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "SGB V (German Social Code Book V)", "url": "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sozialgesetzbuch_(F%C3%BCnftes_Buch)" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Healthcare in Germany", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Healthcare_in_Germany" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "HanseMerkur", "url": "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/HanseMerkur" } ], "inLanguage": [ "en" ], "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "[data-aeo='answer-lead']", "[data-aeo='answer']", "h1" ] } } ], { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Guide to Health Insurance in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Foreign Retirees in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Document Checklist for Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/checklist-which-documents-retirees-at-application-authority-common-need-germany/" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "HowTo", "name": "Schengen-ready in 3 steps", "description": "Proof of insurance for Schengen visa applications, including the €30,000 minimum-coverage requirement.", "inLanguage": "en", "step": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 1, "name": "Pick the right plan", "text": "Care Visa Protect for short Schengen stays · Care Economy for the Opportunity Card or longer visitor stays." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 2, "name": "Apply online", "text": "Enter passport, travel dates and destination. For Care Visa Protect, purchase before entry when required." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 3, "name": "Submit your proof", "text": "Receive the PDF certificate after successful online application and submit it with your visa or authority documents." } ], "totalTime": "PT10M", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "[data-howto='step']", "[data-aeo='answer']", "h1" ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "[data-aeo=\"answer\"]", ".faq-answer" ] }, "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which documents do foreign retirees need at the Ausländerbehörde?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. 10–12 items: valid passport, biometric photo, Anmeldebestätigung (§ 17 BMG), tenancy contract, pension proof, bank statement, marriage/birth certificates with apostille, health-insurance certificate (Care Expatriate from €246/month age 61–74, or GKV/KVdR), fee €100, application form and — for § 36 AufenthG — the sponsor's Verpflichtungserklärung (§ 68 AufenthG)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How recent must pension and bank proofs be?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Under 3 months old, ideally under 30 days. The Ausländerbehörde needs proof of ongoing means of subsistence (§ 5 (1) Nr. 1 AufenthG) at ≥ €1,120/month per person (Regelsatz + rent). Older statements are commonly rejected." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What insurance certificate is accepted for the retiree residence permit?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate from €246/month (age 61–74) is the standard — PDF issued same day, accepted at every Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. A German-language private Incoming certificate covering the full permit duration. Travel policies and low-cap tourist tariffs are refused." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do documents from outside Germany need an apostille?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Translations must be by a court-sworn translator (§ 142 ZPO) — otherwise the § 36 AufenthG file is returned incomplete. Yes for civil-status papers (marriage, birth, divorce) under the Hague Apostille Convention. Non-apostille countries need consular legalisation." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can Care Economy bridge the wait for a Fiktionsbescheinigung?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — if the permit decision is pending, Care Economy (from about €88.50/30 days, ages 65 and over) covers gaps up to 24 months while the Fiktionsbescheinigung is in force. Upgrade to Care Expatriate (from €246/month) once the § 7 or § 36 AufenthG permit is issued." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What documents do retirees need for German authorities?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Key documents include: valid passport, health insurance proof (like Care Expatriate instant PDF), pension certificate, registration certificate, biometric photos, and proof of sufficient living space." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I get health insurance proof for the German immigration office?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Incoming insurance providers like Care Expatriate issue instant PDF certificates containing all required details: name, coverage amount, validity period, and territorial scope. No appointment needed." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if the Ausländerbehörde rejects a document?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "You'll receive a written request listing exactly which documents are missing or non-compliant. Most offices give you 2–4 weeks to resubmit. Using an instant PDF certificate avoids the most common rejection reason: incomplete insurance proof." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which documents do foreign retirees need at the Ausländerbehörde?", "text": "Which documents do foreign retirees need at the Ausländerbehörde?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. 10–12 items: valid passport, biometric photo, Anmeldebestätigung (§ 17 BMG), tenancy contract, pension proof, bank statement, marriage/birth certificates with apostille, health-insurance certificate (Care Expatriate from €246/month age 61–74, or GKV/KVdR), fee €100, application form and — for § 36 AufenthG — the sponsor's Verpflichtungserklärung (§ 68 AufenthG).", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How recent must pension and bank proofs be?", "text": "How recent must pension and bank proofs be?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Under 3 months old, ideally under 30 days. The Ausländerbehörde needs proof of ongoing means of subsistence (§ 5 (1) Nr. 1 AufenthG) at ≥ €1,120/month per person (Regelsatz + rent). Older statements are commonly rejected.", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What insurance certificate is accepted for the retiree residence permit?", "text": "What insurance certificate is accepted for the retiree residence permit?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate from €246/month (age 61–74) is the standard — PDF issued same day, accepted at every Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. A German-language private Incoming certificate covering the full permit duration. Travel policies and low-cap tourist tariffs are refused.", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do documents from outside Germany need an apostille?", "text": "Do documents from outside Germany need an apostille?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Translations must be by a court-sworn translator (§ 142 ZPO) — otherwise the § 36 AufenthG file is returned incomplete. Yes for civil-status papers (marriage, birth, divorce) under the Hague Apostille Convention. Non-apostille countries need consular legalisation.", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can Care Economy bridge the wait for a Fiktionsbescheinigung?", "text": "Can Care Economy bridge the wait for a Fiktionsbescheinigung?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — if the permit decision is pending, Care Economy (from about €88.50/30 days, ages 65 and over) covers gaps up to 24 months while the Fiktionsbescheinigung is in force. Upgrade to Care Expatriate (from €246/month) once the § 7 or § 36 AufenthG permit is issued.", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What documents do retirees need for German authorities?", "text": "What documents do retirees need for German authorities?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Key documents include: valid passport, health insurance proof (like Care Expatriate instant PDF), pension certificate, registration certificate, biometric photos, and proof of sufficient living space.", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I get health insurance proof for the German immigration office?", "text": "How do I get health insurance proof for the German immigration office?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Incoming insurance providers like Care Expatriate issue instant PDF certificates containing all required details: name, coverage amount, validity period, and territorial scope. No appointment needed.", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if the Ausländerbehörde rejects a document?", "text": "What happens if the Ausländerbehörde rejects a document?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "You'll receive a written request listing exactly which documents are missing or non-compliant. Most offices give you 2–4 weeks to resubmit. Using an instant PDF certificate avoids the most common rejection reason: incomplete insurance proof.", "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/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-08-28", "upvoteCount": 0 } } } ] --- 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/) [Care Expatriate — recognised insurance proof for the Ausländerbehörde folder (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. [Foreign Retirees in Germany](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/) 4. Document Checklist for Germany Insurance proof is the most rejected single item in the residence-permit folder under § 5 AufenthG. Travel insurance and home-country policies are refused. Bring a recognised Incoming certificate with a German insurer address. # Checklist — which documents foreign retirees commonly need at the German Ausländerbehörde 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/) ![Foreign retiree document checklist for the German Ausländerbehörde — passport, Anmeldung, pension proof, recognised health insurance](/assets/krankenversicherung-auslaendische-rentner-deutschland-B5fD_4wQ.jpg) - [Long-stay permit insurance: Care Expatriate from €68/mo (41–60) · €246/mo (61–74)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) (§ 5 AufenthG · up to 5 years) - [Fiktionsbescheinigung bridge: Care Economy from €1.00/day (up to age 64) · €2.95/day (age 65 and over)](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) (with deductible · ≤ 2 years · min. €10) - [Pre-application visit: Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to age 64) · €2.60/day (65–74)](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) (EU Reg. 810/2009 · min. €8.50) 10–12 items Full folder Originals \+ copies Insurance Day-1 cover Three rules for the residence-permit document folder at the German Ausländerbehörde : 1. 1 **Insurance proof from day 1 of the permit:** Recognised long-term Incoming — [Care Expatriate from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/), up to 5 years per contract, accepted under § 5 AufenthG. 2. 2 **Anmeldung first, then Ausländerbehörde:** The Bürgeramt issues the Meldebescheinigung within 1–2 weeks of arrival; the Ausländerbehörde processes the permit only with the Anmeldung in the folder. Book both appointments back-to-back. 3. 3 **If the decision is delayed → Fiktion bridge:** The provisional Fiktionsbescheinigung still requires recognised cover. Bridge with [Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) for up to 2 years. Long-stay permit, Schengen visit or Fiktion bridge — which lane fits your case? [30-second tariff finder →](/en/tariffinder-germany/) Inside: the 10–12 items every Ausländerbehörde folder needs · why insurance is the most-rejected single document · how the Anmeldung sequence saves a second appointment Sources: § 5 AufenthG · § 7 AufenthG · § 36 AufenthG · § 68 AufenthG · Bundesmeldegesetz (BMG) · HanseMerkur Care Expatriate AVB · HanseMerkur Care Economy AVB · BAMF Anwendungshinweise 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 ![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **August 28, 2026** Sources§ 5 AufenthG · § 7 AufenthG · § 36 AufenthG · § 68 AufenthG · Bundesmeldegesetz · HanseMerkur Care Expatriate AVB · HanseMerkur Care Economy AVB · BAMF · DKG-Krankenhausstatistik 2024 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Care Expatriate is the standard long-stay insurance line in the residence-permit folder — accepted by every Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG, up to 5 years per contract. [Care Expatriate (long-stay permit insurance) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)[Care Economy (Fiktion / S1 bridge) 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/) ## 📌 TL;DR — at a glance - Foreign retirees applying at the German Ausländerbehörde for a residence permit (typically § 7 AufenthG general purpose, § 36 AufenthG family reunion or § 38a AufenthG long-term EU resident) need a complete document folder — recognised insurance proof is just one of about a dozen items. The full folder usually contains: valid passport with at least one year remaining, biometric passport photo (35 × 45 mm), Anmeldung from the Bürgeramt (Meldebescheinigung), proof of secured livelihood (pension certificate, bank statements), tenancy contract, marriage / birth certificates with apostille and certified German translation, and recognised health insurance from day 1 of the permit. - The single most rejected document at the appointment: insurance proof. Travel insurance, home-country policies, and certificates without a German address on the insurer line are routinely refused under § 5 AufenthG. The recognised long-term lane is Care Expatriate from €68/month (entry age 41–60) and €246/month (61–74) — PDF certificate in German + English by email within minutes, accepted by every Ausländerbehörde for up to 5 years per contract. - Sequencing matters. Bürgeramt issues the Anmeldung within 1–2 weeks of arrival; the Ausländerbehörde then needs the Anmeldung BEFORE it processes the residence permit; the recognised health-insurance certificate must already cover the stay from day 1. Bring originals AND copies of every document — the case officer keeps the copies and stamps the originals on the spot. Key facts at a glance Reviewed August 28, 2026 - **§ 5 AufenthG — recognised insurance is a general issuance condition:** Section 5 of the German Residence Act lists secured livelihood AND recognised health insurance among the general conditions for issuing any residence permit. Travel insurance, home-country policies, and certificates without a German insurer address are routinely refused. (Source: Aufenthaltsgesetz § 5 · BAMF Anwendungshinweise). - **Bundesmeldegesetz — Anmeldung within 14 days:** Federal Registration Act (§ 17 BMG) requires every person moving into a German residence to register at the Bürgeramt within 14 days. The resulting Meldebescheinigung is a hard prerequisite for the Ausländerbehörde appointment and for the GKV / DAK-Gesundheit / Familienversicherung application. (Source: Bundesmeldegesetz § 17 · Bundesministerium des Innern). - **Cost without recognised cover — German hospital day rate:** A standard inpatient day in Germany averages €830 (DKG 2024). For a retiree without recognised cover a one-week hospital stay can exceed €5,800 out of pocket. Care Expatriate at €68/month (ages 41–60) or €246/month (ages 61–74) removes that risk and is the standard line on the residence-permit folder. (Source: DKG-Krankenhausstatistik 2024 · Statistisches Bundesamt). ## Document folder for the Ausländerbehörde — the six concrete rules **Quick answer:** "What documents does a foreign retiree need at the Ausländerbehörde?" — Roughly 10–12 items: passport, biometric photo, Anmeldung, tenancy contract, pension / income proof, marriage certificate (if family reunion), application form, fee, and recognised health insurance from day 1. The standard long-stay insurance line is Care Expatriate from €68/month (ages 41–60) or €246/month (ages 61–74), accepted under § 5 AufenthG, up to 5 years. - Passport: ≥ 1 year remaining validity, plus the visa page if entry was on a D-visa - Anmeldung (Meldebescheinigung) from the Bürgeramt — usually issued within 1–2 weeks - One biometric passport photo (35 × 45 mm, current EU standard) - Proof of secured livelihood: pension certificate + 6 months of bank statements (or Verpflichtungserklärung § 68 AufenthG) - Recognised health insurance from day 1 of the permit (Care Expatriate is the standard long-stay lane) - Originals AND copies of every document — case officer stamps and keeps copies on the spot ## Three insurance lanes for the document folder — long-stay, Fiktion bridge, or pre-application visit Path 1 / 3 ### Path 1 — Long-stay residence permit (§ 7 / § 36 AufenthG): Care Expatriate For a residence permit longer than 90 days the Ausländerbehörde requires recognised insurance covering the whole permit period. Care Expatriate is the standard long-term Incoming product: from €68/month at entry age 41–60 and €246/month at 61–74 (Basic, €150 deductible), up to 5 years per contract. Insurer is HanseMerkur Reiseversicherung AG (Hamburg) — accepted at every German Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. **Need:** Care Expatriate · § 5 AufenthG · up to 5 years [Care Expatriate from €68/month →](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) Path 2 / 3 ### Path 2 — Short pending decision / Fiktion: Care Economy bridge When the Ausländerbehörde cannot issue the permit on the day of the appointment it hands out a Fiktionsbescheinigung (provisional certificate). Care Economy bridges 1 day to 2 years with per-day pricing by age — from €1.00/day for ages up to 64 (with deductible) and €2.95/day for age 65 and over (with deductible), minimum €10 premium. Switchable to GKV / S1 the day the long-term decision arrives. **Need:** Care Economy · ≤ 2 years · Fiktion / S1 bridge [Care Economy from €1.00/day (up to age 64) · €2.95/day (age 65 and over) →](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) Path 3 / 3 ### Path 3 — Short visit before permit application: Care Visa Protect For relatives or pre-application visits up to 90 days the Schengen lane applies. Care Visa Protect meets EU Reg. 810/2009 at €0.85/day for ages up to 64 and €2.60/day for 65–74 (minimum €8.50 premium). Single PDF certificate accepted at every German consulate and at the Schengen border. **Need:** Care Visa Protect · EU Reg. 810/2009 · ≤ 92 days [Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to age 64) · €2.60/day (65–74) →](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) ## 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. ## What happens when the folder is incomplete — second appointment, expired visa, €830/day hospital risk ## 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. ## Ausländerbehörde appointment booked? Lock the insurance line of the folder first ## 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. ## From contract to authority-ready certificate — in 3 steps 10 minutes online. No medical exam, no health questions for standard tier cover. PDF certificate in German + English by email within minutes — accepted by every German embassy and Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. ## Schengen-ready in 3 steps Proof of insurance for Schengen visa applications, including the €30,000 minimum-coverage requirement. 1. 1 🎯 Pick the right plan Care Visa Protect for short Schengen stays · Care Economy for the Opportunity Card or longer visitor stays. 2. 2 📝 Apply online Enter passport, travel dates and destination. For Care Visa Protect, purchase before entry when required. 3. 3 ✅ Submit your proof Receive the PDF certificate after successful online application and submit it with your visa or authority documents. ## What foreign retirees say about Care Expatriate as the insurance line of their Ausländerbehörde folder 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 insurance line for the folder — long-stay (primary), Fiktion bridge, and Schengen visit 🎯 Long-stay permit · up to 5 years ### Care Expatriate from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) — up to 5 years 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 🛟 Fiktion / S1 wait bridge ### 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 🛂 Schengen visit · ≤ 90 days ### Care Visa Protect from only €0.85 / day (1–92 days possible) For Schengen visas, tourists, family visits & business travel - Proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities quickly available (PDF) - Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements - Affordable coverage from €0.85/day (minimum premium applies) - Doctor, hospital, prescription medication & dental emergency coverage - For Germany, Austria, the EU/Schengen Area, Liechtenstein or Switzerland - Ideal for short stays, family visits, tourists & business travelers - Multiple-visa option: several trips up to a total of 92 days/year - Must be purchased before entry - Age-based rates: from €0.85/day up to age 64 · from €2.60/day for ages 65–74 - Coverage term: 1–92 days · entry age 0–74 Why Care Visa Protect? For foreign visitors with a Schengen visa who need fast, affordable proof of insurance for an embassy, visa office or immigration authority — suitable for tourists, family visits and short business trips. Why a 92-day coverage term? Ideal for typical short stays and Schengen trips: enough coverage for a visit, vacation or business trip — without buying long-term insurance. - 🏛️ HanseMerkur Travel Insurance AG, Hamburg - 📄 Instant proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities (PDF) - 🔒 Doctor, clinic, dental emergency & repatriation coverage - 🏷️ From €0.85 / day · coverage up to 92 days [Care Visa Protect – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/apply/) → Complete the application, receive your instant PDF, submit your proof What insurance proof is accepted before any German address exists? [Insurance proof without permanent residence](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/retirees-without-permanent-residence-health-insurance-proof-authority-embassy-germany/). Which exact certificate fields does the Ausländerbehörde verify? [Ausländerbehörde insurance-proof fields](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/immigration-office-insurance-proof-which-details-should-appear-germany/). For the full overview see the [foreign-retirees hub](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/). ## Full price tables — Care Expatriate (long-stay), Care Economy (bridge), Care Visa Protect (visit) **Quick answer:** Care Expatriate is the standard long-stay insurance line: ages 41–60 from €68/month (Basic, €150 deductible); ages 61–74 from €246/month — up to 5 years per contract. Care Economy bridges 1 day to 2 years with per-day pricing by age (€1.00/day for up to age 64, €2.95/day for 65–74, both with deductible). Care Visa Protect covers a Schengen visit at €0.85/day (0–64) and €2.60/day (65–74). ### Long-stay permit insurance — Care Expatriate (ages 0–74, up to 5 years) 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/) ### Fiktionsbescheinigung bridge — Care Economy (1 day–2 years) 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/) ### Pre-application visit — Care Visa Protect (Schengen ≤ 92 days) Care Visa Protect Daily premium Multiple Visa (annual contract) up to age 64 €0.85/day €110/year 65 – 74 years €2.60/day €215/year Prices per person. Minimum premium €8.50 per trip. Maximum benefit €50,000 (well above the Schengen minimum of €30,000). Deductible €0. Must be purchased before travel. As of 2026. [Care Visa Protect — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) ## FAQ — Document folder for retirees at the Ausländerbehörde ## Frequently Asked Questions Which documents do foreign retirees need at the Ausländerbehörde? Retirees aged 61–74 pay from €126/month via Care Expatriate under § 36 AufenthG. 10–12 items: valid passport, biometric photo, Anmeldebestätigung (§ 17 BMG), tenancy contract, pension proof, bank statement, marriage/birth certificates with apostille, health-insurance certificate (Care Expatriate from €246/month age 61–74, or GKV/KVdR), fee €100, application form and — for § 36 AufenthG — the sponsor's Verpflichtungserklärung (§ 68 AufenthG). How recent must pension and bank proofs be? Under 3 months old, ideally under 30 days. The Ausländerbehörde needs proof of ongoing means of subsistence (§ 5 (1) Nr. 1 AufenthG) at ≥ €1,120/month per person (Regelsatz + rent). Older statements are commonly rejected. What insurance certificate is accepted for the retiree residence permit? Care Expatriate from €246/month (age 61–74) is the standard — PDF issued same day, accepted at every Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. A German-language private Incoming certificate covering the full permit duration. Travel policies and low-cap tourist tariffs are refused. Do documents from outside Germany need an apostille? Translations must be by a court-sworn translator (§ 142 ZPO) — otherwise the § 36 AufenthG file is returned incomplete. Yes for civil-status papers (marriage, birth, divorce) under the Hague Apostille Convention. Non-apostille countries need consular legalisation. Can Care Economy bridge the wait for a Fiktionsbescheinigung? Yes — if the permit decision is pending, Care Economy (from about €88.50/30 days, ages 65 and over) covers gaps up to 24 months while the Fiktionsbescheinigung is in force. Upgrade to Care Expatriate (from €246/month) once the § 7 or § 36 AufenthG permit is issued. What documents do retirees need for German authorities? Key documents include: valid passport, health insurance proof (like [Care Expatriate](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) instant PDF), pension certificate, registration certificate, biometric photos, and proof of sufficient living space. How do I get health insurance proof for the German immigration office? Incoming insurance providers like Care Expatriate issue instant PDF certificates containing all required details: name, coverage amount, validity period, and territorial scope. No appointment needed. What happens if the Ausländerbehörde rejects a document? You'll receive a written request listing exactly which documents are missing or non-compliant. Most offices give you 2–4 weeks to resubmit. Using an [instant PDF certificate](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) avoids the most common rejection reason: incomplete insurance proof. [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: August 28, 2026.