--- title: "From €0.85/day · Insurance Before Study Start 2026" description: "Three start dates: visa (Care Visa Protect €0.85/day), arrival (Care College from €27.50/mo) and enrolment (DAK ~€135/mo or Care Student €101.54/mo) — no gap." 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": "Health Insurance before Study Start in Germany: Visa Date, Entry Date and Enrolment Date — How to Avoid Coverage Gaps", "description": "Three start dates: visa (Care Visa Protect €0.85/day), arrival (Care College from €27.50/mo) and enrolment (DAK ~€135/mo or Care Student €101.54/mo) — no gap.", "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": "2026-09-02", "dateModified": "2026-09-05", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/" }, "image": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/og/og-krankenversicherung-auslaender.webp", "about": [], "mentions": [ { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Healthcare in Germany", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Healthcare_in_Germany" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "GKV-Spitzenverband", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statutory_health_insurance" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Aufenthaltsgesetz (AufenthG)", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Residence_Act" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge (BAMF)", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Office_for_Migration_and_Refugees" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "HanseMerkur", "url": "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/HanseMerkur" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Schengen Area", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schengen_Area" } ], "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 Students in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Before Study Start in Germany: Pick a Date", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "HowTo", "name": "Ready for university enrollment in 3 steps", "description": "DAK Student or Care Student for university enrollment, M10 notification and proof of coverage.", "inLanguage": "en", "step": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 1, "name": "Choose your student plan", "text": "DAK statutory student cover up to age 29 · Care Student private student cover up to age 39. For language school or Studienkolleg, use Care College." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 2, "name": "Complete the application", "text": "Enter your passport, university/program and stay details. M10 applies to DAK Student and Care Student university enrollment flows." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 3, "name": "Receive your proof", "text": "Receive visa or insurance proof after application; where applicable, the electronic M10 notification can be sent to the university." } ], "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": "When should I take out health insurance before studying in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): Book Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) at least 4 weeks before the visa appointment; add Care College (from €27.50/month) or DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) with a start date matching your planned entry or enrolment date." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What start date should German student health insurance use?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Use the entry date on your D visa for Care College (from €27.50/month) or the first day of the semester for DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month). Both certificates can be pre-dated online at booking." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I avoid a coverage gap between visa, entry and enrolment in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): Chain the three tariffs without overlap: Care Visa Protect until landing in Germany, then Care College (or DAK) from the entry date through enrolment. Cancellations align to the day, so premiums are only paid for the days you actually need." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I switch from Care Visa Protect to DAK when I enrol at a German university?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — Care Visa Protect is a short-term Schengen tariff (max 92 days). Once you receive the university admission letter you switch to DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month, under 30) or Care Student (€101.54/month, 30+) from day 1 of enrolment via the M10 electronic notification." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is health insurance required before the German student visa is issued?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "German embassies require Schengen-compliant health insurance (typically Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day, €30,000 cover under EU Reg. 810/2009) as part of the visa file, plus a plan for statutory or recognised private cover from arrival — such as Care College (€27.50/month) or DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When should my health insurance start as an international student?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Your insurance must be valid from your date of entry into Germany — not from the semester start. Many embassies require proof of insurance already when applying for a student visa. For the gap between arrival and university enrollment, incoming insurance like Care College (from €27.50/month) is the standard solution." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need separate insurance before and after enrollment?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Often yes. The statutory health insurance (GKV) student tariff typically starts with enrollment (Immatrikulation). For the weeks between arrival and enrollment, you need private incoming insurance to bridge the gap. DAK-Gesundheit student tariff starts from €135.52/month." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if I have a gap in health insurance coverage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A coverage gap can cause problems with your residence registration (Anmeldung), residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), and university enrollment. During this time, you pay all medical costs out of pocket — a single doctor visit costs €200–500, a hospital stay around €830/day (Destatis 2024)." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "When should I take out health insurance before studying in Germany?", "text": "When should I take out health insurance before studying in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): Book Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) at least 4 weeks before the visa appointment; add Care College (from €27.50/month) or DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) with a start date matching your planned entry or enrolment date.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What start date should German student health insurance use?", "text": "What start date should German student health insurance use?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Use the entry date on your D visa for Care College (from €27.50/month) or the first day of the semester for DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month). Both certificates can be pre-dated online at booking.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I avoid a coverage gap between visa, entry and enrolment in Germany?", "text": "How do I avoid a coverage gap between visa, entry and enrolment in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): Chain the three tariffs without overlap: Care Visa Protect until landing in Germany, then Care College (or DAK) from the entry date through enrolment. Cancellations align to the day, so premiums are only paid for the days you actually need.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I switch from Care Visa Protect to DAK when I enrol at a German university?", "text": "Can I switch from Care Visa Protect to DAK when I enrol at a German university?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — Care Visa Protect is a short-term Schengen tariff (max 92 days). Once you receive the university admission letter you switch to DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month, under 30) or Care Student (€101.54/month, 30+) from day 1 of enrolment via the M10 electronic notification.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is health insurance required before the German student visa is issued?", "text": "Is health insurance required before the German student visa is issued?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "German embassies require Schengen-compliant health insurance (typically Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day, €30,000 cover under EU Reg. 810/2009) as part of the visa file, plus a plan for statutory or recognised private cover from arrival — such as Care College (€27.50/month) or DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month).", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "When should my health insurance start as an international student?", "text": "When should my health insurance start as an international student?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Your insurance must be valid from your date of entry into Germany — not from the semester start. Many embassies require proof of insurance already when applying for a student visa. For the gap between arrival and university enrollment, incoming insurance like Care College (from €27.50/month) is the standard solution.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need separate insurance before and after enrollment?", "text": "Do I need separate insurance before and after enrollment?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Often yes. The statutory health insurance (GKV) student tariff typically starts with enrollment (Immatrikulation). For the weeks between arrival and enrollment, you need private incoming insurance to bridge the gap. DAK-Gesundheit student tariff starts from €135.52/month.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if I have a gap in health insurance coverage?", "text": "What happens if I have a gap in health insurance coverage?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A coverage gap can cause problems with your residence registration (Anmeldung), residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), and university enrollment. During this time, you pay all medical costs out of pocket — a single doctor visit costs €200–500, a hospital stay around €830/day (Destatis 2024).", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-before-study-start-taking-out-start-date-entry-enrollment-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "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 Visa Protect (visa appointment, embassy phase) from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) 1. [Home](/en/) 2. [Guide to Health Insurance in Germany](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/) 3. [Foreign Students in Germany](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/) 4. Before Study Start in Germany: Pick a Date # Health Insurance before Study Start in Germany: Visa Date, Entry Date and Enrolment Date — How to Avoid Coverage Gaps - [Care Visa Protect: from €0.85/day](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) (visa application phase) - [Care College: from €27.50/month](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) (entry → enrolment bridge) - [DAK-Gesundheit: from €135.52/month](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) (after immatriculation, under 30) Sources: EU-VO 810/2009 Art. 15 · § 5 AufenthG · § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 13 SGB V · § 199a SGB V (M10) · DAK-Gesundheit · HanseMerkur AVB **A foreign student in Germany has to coordinate three different start dates: the visa-application date, the entry / arrival date and the immatriculation date. Each one needs a different recognised tariff — getting the handover wrong is the most expensive mistake foreign students make.** The embassy phase is covered by [Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days)](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) (EU-VO 810/2009 Art. 15-compliant, min €30,000 cover, up to 92 days, PDF certificate within minutes). On the day of entry, switch to [Care College from €27.50/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) — the recognised tariff for the Anmeldung at the Bürgeramt, language school and Studienkolleg. On the day the university confirms the study place, switch again to [DAK-Studenten](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) (under 30, statutory) or [Care Student from €101.54/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) (over 30 / GKV-exempt) — the M10 notification then starts under § 199a SGB V (full workflow in the [M10 enrolment proof guide](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-proof-enrollment-university-germany/)). Below: the three-date timeline (visa → entry → immatriculation), the most common gap-day mistakes that trigger Ausländerbehörde rejection or retroactive GKV charges under § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 13 SGB V, the cover-handover checklist, the Sprachkurs / Studienkolleg bridge and the full Care Visa Protect price table. Student Coverage DAK-Gesundheit or HanseMerkur student options Enrollment Proof M10 notification for eligible university enrollment flows Visa & University Documents Receive confirmation for visa or enrollment steps where applicable ![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **September 5, 2026** SourcesEU-VO 810/2009 Art. 15 (Schengen) · § 5 AufenthG (residence permit) · § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 13 SGB V (auffangpflicht) · § 199a SGB V (M10) · DAK-Gesundheit · HanseMerkur AVB 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Embassy appointment booked? Get Care Visa Protect in 5 minutes — PDF certificate within seconds. [Care Visa Protect (visa, embassy, arrival window) from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/)[Care College (entry day, Sprachkurs, Studienkolleg) from €27.50/month (up to 5 years) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/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 - Three different start dates need to line up for a foreign student: the visa-application date (Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day, EU-VO 810/2009 Art. 15-compliant, valid up to 92 days), the entry / arrival date in Germany (Care College from €27.50/month up to age 29 and from €33.50/month for age 30+), and the immatriculation date when M10 starts (DAK-Studenten ~€135.52/month with Garantietarif 120 if under 30, or Care Student €101.54/month if over 30 / GKV-exempt). - Setting the tariff start date one day after entry is the most expensive mistake: every day without recognised cover after registration in Germany can be billed retroactively by GKV (§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 13 SGB V) or trigger an Ausländerbehörde rejection of the residence permit. The safe rule: long-stay tariff starts on the day of entry, not on the first day of the semester. - Recommended sequence: book Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day for the embassy appointment (PDF certificate within minutes); switch to Care College from €27.50/month on the day of entry (covers visa, Anmeldung, language school and Studienkolleg); finally switch to DAK-Studenten or Care Student on the day the university confirms the study place — the M10 electronic notification then starts automatically. Key facts at a glance Reviewed September 5, 2026 - **Date 1 — visa application → Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day:** EU-VO 810/2009 Art. 15-compliant: min €30,000 medical cover, repatriation, valid in all 29 Schengen states. Up to 92 days, min premium €8.50, PDF certificate within minutes — accepted at every German embassy. (Source: EU-VO 810/2009 Art. 15 · HanseMerkur Reise AVB). - **Date 2 — entry / arrival → Care College from €27.50/month:** Up to age 29: €27.50/month; 30+: from €33.50/month Basic, up to €99/month Premium (months 25+). Recognised by Ausländerbehörde for the Anmeldung at the Bürgeramt and by every German language school and Studienkolleg. Up to 60 months — no GKV access required. (Source: HanseMerkur Care College AVB · § 5 AufenthG). - **Date 3 — immatriculation → DAK ~€135.52/month or Care Student €101.54/month:** Under 30 enrolled students: DAK-Studenten (statutory, with Garantietarif 120 ~€135.52/month, otherwise ~€145.52/month), M10 filed electronically by DAK. Over 30 / GKV-exempt: Care Student €101.54/month total (CCS €35 + PVN €58.04 + Pflege €8.50), GKV-gleichwertig under § 257 SGB V. (Source: § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V · § 257 SGB V · § 199a SGB V). - **Cover gap = retroactive GKV charges + residence-permit rejection:** Every day without recognised cover after the Anmeldung can be billed retroactively under § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 13 SGB V (auffangpflicht), and the Ausländerbehörde can reject the residence permit under § 5 AufenthG. The long-stay tariff must start on the day of entry, not on the first day of the semester. (Source: § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 13 SGB V · § 5 AufenthG). ## Four start-date mistakes that block the visa or trigger retroactive GKV charges **Quick answer:** "Why was my visa rejected / why did I get a GKV bill for months I was not insured?" — most cases share one of four issues: the long-stay tariff starts only on the first day of the semester, leaving the entry-to-semester window uninsured; only Care Visa Protect is bought for the whole study; the embassy tariff ends before the long-stay tariff begins; or DAK is taken before immatriculation, before M10 applies. ## Avoid the mistakes that can delay your application ### Enrollment can stall without M10 DAK Student and Care Student support electronic M10 notification for eligible university enrollment flows. ### Under 30 or over 30? DAK Student fits many students up to age 29; Care Student can fit private student coverage up to age 39. ### Private or statutory confusion Choosing the wrong route can create extra steps. Check statutory, private and exemption rules before applying. ### Language school is different Care College is better for language school, Studienkolleg, DSH and educational stays — not M10 university enrollment. ## What a single uninsured day after entry actually costs ## 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. 🎓 1 missed M10 Enrollment can get stuck For university enrollment, the wrong insurance route can delay the electronic M10 notification to your university. - 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. ## Visa appointment fixed — get the certificate before the deadline ## Why act before university enrollment University enrollment can depend on the right insurance route. Waiting too long can delay M10 notification or create extra steps. 🎓 M10 timing matters DAK Student and Care Student can support M10 university enrollment flows where applicable. 📄 Wrong route creates delays Language school, Studienkolleg and DSH usually need Care College, not the university M10 route. ⚡ Apply before enrollment pressure Prepare insurance proof before the university or visa office asks for it urgently. ✅ Under 30 or over 30? DAK Student and Care Student serve different student situations. Check age and eligibility before applying. ## Three handovers, zero gap days — in 3 steps 10 minutes online. Care Visa Protect issues the PDF certificate within minutes for the embassy. Care College takes over on the day of entry. DAK-Studenten or Care Student starts on the day of immatriculation — and the M10 notification is filed automatically. ## Ready for university enrollment in 3 steps DAK Student or Care Student for university enrollment, M10 notification and proof of coverage. 1. 1 🎯 Choose your student plan DAK statutory student cover up to age 29 · Care Student private student cover up to age 39. For language school or Studienkolleg, use Care College. 2. 2 📝 Complete the application Enter your passport, university/program and stay details. M10 applies to DAK Student and Care Student university enrollment flows. 3. 3 ✅ Receive your proof Receive visa or insurance proof after application; where applicable, the electronic M10 notification can be sent to the university. ## What students say about Care Visa Protect for the embassy phase before study start in Germany 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 tariffs by start date and study phase 🎯 Date 1 · visa appointment + embassy ### 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 🛟 Date 2 · entry + Sprachkurs / Studienkolleg ### Care College from only €27.50 / month (coverage up to 5 years) For language schools, Studienkolleg, DSH, continuing education, visiting researchers & educational stays - Proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities quickly available (PDF) - Affordable health insurance from €27.50 / month - Doctor, hospital, prescription medication & dental treatment coverage - For educational stays in Germany or the EU/Schengen Area — except Austria - Suitable for language students, Studienkolleg, DSH, continuing education & visiting researchers - Coverage up to 5 years – less renewal stress - 3 plan levels available: Basic, Comfort & Premium - 24/7 assistance + digital insurance card - Coverage term: 1 month to 5 years · entry age up to 40 - Reputable insurance carrier Why Care College? For foreign nationals with an educational stay who need affordable health insurance and proof of coverage for authorities — suitable for language school, Studienkolleg, DSH, continuing education or visiting researchers. Why a 5-year coverage term? More planning security during training, language courses or study preparation: less renewal stress and a lower risk of a coverage gap. - 🏛️ HanseMerkur Insurance Group Hamburg – Advigon Insurance AG - 📄 Instant proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities (PDF) - 🔒 Doctor, clinic, dental treatment & repatriation coverage - 🏷️ From €27.50 / month · coverage up to 5 years [Care College – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/apply/) → Complete the application, receive your instant PDF, submit your proof For Date 3 (immatriculation), routing depends on age and GKV status — the full decision matrix is in the [GKV vs. private student guide](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/statutory-or-private-health-insurance-foreign-students-options-germany/), and the full DAK / Care Student / Care College comparison is in the [foreign-students hub](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/). ## Full price tables — all brackets across the three start dates **Quick answer:** Three start dates, three recognised tariffs: Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) for the visa application, Care College (from €27.50/month) from arrival until the study place is confirmed, then DAK-Gesundheit (~€135.52/month) for under-30s or Care Student (€101.54/month) for over-30s and GKV-exempt students from immatriculation. ### Care Visa Protect — visa-application phase (1–92 days) EU-VO 810/2009 Art. 15-compliant with €30,000 medical cover and repatriation — accepted at every German embassy: 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/) ### Care College — arrival phase (Sprachkurs / Studienkolleg) Bridges the gap from arrival until the university confirms the study place — from €27.50/month (up to age 29) and from €33.50/month (age 30+): Care College Basic Bestseller Comfort Premium Deductible / yr 120,– Deductible / yr 0,– Deductible / yr 0,– Months 1–24 month up to 29 yrs (€ / month) 27,50 34,– 48,– Months 1–24 month from 30 yrs (€ / month) 33,50 50,– 75,– From 25th month up to 29 yrs (€ / month) 49,50 57,– 73,– From 25th month from 30 yrs (€ / month) 55,– 73,– 99,– All prices per month/person in euros. Deductible applies per insurance year. Maximum entry age 40. As of 2026. [Care College — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) ### DAK-Gesundheit — from immatriculation (under-30s) All three GKV variants include automatic M10 notification — they only take effect from immatriculation: Insured benefits DAK-Gesundheit Bestseller DAK + Garantietarif 120 DAK + Fit & Travel up to age 23 €145.52 / month €145.52 €135.52 / month €145.52 / month up to age 29, childless €150.65 / month €150.65 €140.65 / month €150.65 / month up to age 29, with 1 child €145.52 / month €145.52 €135.52 / month €145.52 / month Bonus / extra benefit — saves €120/year free for under 39 Contribution incl. long-term care insurance (childless from age 23). Garantietarif 120: €120 contribution refund per year if no claims are filed. Fit & Travel: free for insured persons under 39. Entry age up to 29, term for the duration of studies (max. 14 specialist semesters / age 30). As of 2026. [DAK Students — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) ### Care Student — from immatriculation (over-30 / GKV-exempt / PhD) CCS €35 + PVN €58.04 + Pflege €8.50 = €101.54/month total — GKV-equivalent under § 257 SGB V: Care Student Health insurance for students Compulsory long-term care for students Total 12–29 years 69,62 € / month 31,92 € / month 101,54 € / month 30–39 years 95,68 € / month 31,92 € / month 127,60 € / month All prices per month/person in euros. Health insurance deductible: €300 per calendar year. Entry age 12–39, term up to 60 months. Premium guarantee for the full term. As of 2026. [Care Student — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) Sources: DAK-Gesundheit contribution statement 2025, Care Concept AG tariff tables 2024/25, HanseMerkur AVB. The exact price is calculated in the online application. [Care Visa Protect](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) [Care College](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) [DAK-Gesundheit](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/)[Care Student](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) ## Frequently Asked Questions When should I take out health insurance before studying in Germany? From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): Book Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) at least 4 weeks before the visa appointment; add Care College (from €27.50/month) or DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) with a start date matching your planned entry or enrolment date. What start date should German student health insurance use? Use the entry date on your D visa for Care College (from €27.50/month) or the first day of the semester for DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month). Both certificates can be pre-dated online at booking. How do I avoid a coverage gap between visa, entry and enrolment in Germany? From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): Chain the three tariffs without overlap: Care Visa Protect until landing in Germany, then Care College (or DAK) from the entry date through enrolment. Cancellations align to the day, so premiums are only paid for the days you actually need. Can I switch from Care Visa Protect to DAK when I enrol at a German university? Yes — Care Visa Protect is a short-term Schengen tariff (max 92 days). Once you receive the university admission letter you switch to DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month, under 30) or Care Student (€101.54/month, 30+) from day 1 of enrolment via the M10 electronic notification. Is health insurance required before the German student visa is issued? German embassies require Schengen-compliant health insurance (typically Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day, €30,000 cover under EU Reg. 810/2009) as part of the visa file, plus a plan for statutory or recognised private cover from arrival — such as Care College (€27.50/month) or DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month). When should my health insurance start as an international student? Your insurance must be valid from your **date of entry** into Germany — not from the semester start. Many embassies require proof of insurance already when applying for a student visa. For the gap between arrival and university enrollment, incoming insurance like [Care College (from €27.50/month)](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) is the standard solution. Do I need separate insurance before and after enrollment? Often yes. The statutory health insurance (GKV) student tariff typically starts with enrollment (Immatrikulation). For the weeks between arrival and enrollment, you need private incoming insurance to bridge the gap. [DAK-Gesundheit student tariff starts from €135.52/month](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/). What happens if I have a gap in health insurance coverage? A coverage gap can cause problems with your residence registration (Anmeldung), residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), and university enrollment. During this time, you pay all medical costs out of pocket — a single doctor visit costs €200–500, a hospital stay around €830/day (Destatis 2024). [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 5, 2026.