---
title: "From €27.50/mo · Pre-Studies Internship Germany 2026"
description: "Pre-Studies Internship: Incoming Health Insurance What Accepted: practical guidance for foreigners in Germany."
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            "text": "Care College starts from €27.50/month (Basic, up to age 29) and is recognized by immigration offices and universities. If your employer does not register you for social insurance, you need private incoming insurance. The insurance certificate is available instantly via email."
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            "text": "€135.52/month at DAK-Gesundheit). Yes. Once you enroll at a German university (Immatrikulation), you can switch to the statutory student tariff (GKV, approx. Plan the transition in advance to avoid coverage gaps."
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            "text": "From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): In most cases, yes — provided the policy covers outpatient treatment, inpatient care, and medical repatriation. Care College meets these requirements and is frequently accepted by German immigration authorities for residence permit applications."
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          "text": "€135.52/month at DAK-Gesundheit). Yes. Once you enroll at a German university (Immatrikulation), you can switch to the statutory student tariff (GKV, approx. Plan the transition in advance to avoid coverage gaps.",
          "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/pre-studies-internship-incoming-health-insurance-accepted-germany/",
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          "text": "From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): In most cases, yes — provided the policy covers outpatient treatment, inpatient care, and medical repatriation. Care College meets these requirements and is frequently accepted by German immigration authorities for residence permit applications.",
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          "text": "Below the threshold, private Care College from €27.50/month remains valid. Yes — if the internship is paid above €538/month (Minijob threshold 2026) and lasts more than 3 months, the employer must register you in GKV (DAK-Gesundheit ~17.8% of gross, split 8.9%/8.9%).",
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          "text": "Typically § 17 AufenthG (Praktikum) for short pre-study internships or § 16f AufenthG (Sprachkurs/Studienbewerbung). Both require health insurance from entry day — Care College (from €27.50/month) is the recognised private option; embassies also accept Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) for short internships up to 92 days.",
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---

EN [+49 228 97735-44](tel:+4922897735-44)· German & English spoken 

[Health Insurance for Foreigners in Germany ](/en/)

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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/)

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[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 College — recognised for § 17 AufenthG internship visa from €27.50/month (up to 5 years) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/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.  Internship Before Studies in Germany 

A 90-day Schengen policy is invalid the day your national D-visa starts — the Ausländerbehörde will refuse the residence permit 

# Internship before the Studies (Incoming) in Germany

4.9/5 · 10,000+ policies since 2009 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) 

![Pre-studies internship in Germany — health-insurance proof accepted by the embassy and the Ausländerbehörde](/assets/schloss-neuschwanstein-rentner-deutschland-BUe6CLV2.jpg)

-   [≤ 90 days Schengen: Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) (30,000 € cover · EU 810/2009 compliant · vs. visa refusal) 
-   [National D-visa § 17: Care College from €27.50/month](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) (1–60 months, age 12–29 · vs. ~€830/day uninsured ER) 
-   [Age 30+ / longer stay: Care Expatriate from €58/month](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) (up to 5 years · recognised globally incl. home country) 

Schengen ≤ 90d

€0.85/day

D-visa § 17

€27.50/mo

Age 30+

€58/mo

Pre-studies = no GKV student tariff yet . The legal frame is the visa, not the university — three recognised routes:

1.  A **≤ 90 days, Schengen visa (§ 6 AufenthG, EU Reg. 810/2009):** [Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days)](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) — 30,000 € medical cover, repatriation, all 27,50 €/MonatSchengen states. PDF certificate by email in minutes; the exact wording the embassy looks for. 
2.  B **National D-visa for internship (§ 17 AufenthG, 3–12 months):** [Care College from €27.50/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/) — Incoming-Versicherung (Privat) for students, language students and pre-studies interns under 30, 1–60 months, recognised by every Ausländerbehörde. 
3.  C **Age 30+ / unclear duration / freelance gap:** [Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) — recognised globally incl. home country, up to 5 years, no excess. The standard fallback when Care College is closed by age. 

Visa appointment already booked?  [30-second tariff finder →](/en/tariffinder-germany/)

Inside:  the three exact phrases the embassy looks for in the PDF  ·  why a Schengen policy expires the day the D-visa starts  ·  the Care College age cap that catches 30-year-old interns 

Sources:  § 6 AufenthG (Schengen visa) · § 17 AufenthG (internship) · EU Regulation 810/2009 (Schengen Visa Code, 30 000 € minimum) · HanseMerkur Care Visa Protect / Care College / Care Expatriate AVB · Auswärtiges Amt visa requirements 2026 

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 4, 2026**  Sources§ 6 / § 17 AufenthG · EU Reg. 810/2009 · HanseMerkur Care Visa Protect / Care College / Care Expatriate AVB · Auswärtiges Amt 2026 

4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) 

Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009

## Visa appointment booked? Take out Care College the same day so the embassy sees the recognised PDF certificate at the counter.

[Care College — § 17 AufenthG internship visa (PDF in minutes) from €27.50/month (up to 5 years) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/)[Care Visa Protect — Schengen ≤ 90 days from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/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

-   A pre-studies internship in Germany happens BEFORE university enrollment — meaning no GKV student tariff is available yet. The Ausländerbehörde and the embassy require proof of German-recognised health insurance for the entire stay. Three standard routes: (1) ≤ 90 days on a Schengen visa → Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (min €8.50, 30,000 € medical cover, EU Reg. 810/2009 compliant); (2) longer national D-visa for the internship (§ 17 AufenthG) → Care College from €27.50/month (up to age 29) or €33.50/month (age 30+, Basic months 1–24), recognised for 1–60 months; (3) age 30+ or unclear duration → Care Expatriate from €58/month, recognised globally for up to 5 years. 
-   What the embassy will reject in the visa appointment: travel insurance bought from a non-EU provider, single-trip cards without repatriation, and any policy that excludes pre-existing complaints without naming the German legal framework. Care Visa Protect, Care College and Care Expatriate are issued by HanseMerkur (German insurer, EU-regulated) and deliver the recognised PDF certificate by email in minutes. The certificate explicitly references § 17 AufenthG / EU 810/2009 and states a 30,000 € minimum medical cover plus repatriation — the three exact phrases the embassy looks for. 
-   The most expensive mistake pre-studies interns make: buying a 90-day Schengen policy and then extending the stay with the same Schengen tariff. A Schengen tariff is legally invalid the moment a national D-visa or residence permit is issued. From day 1 of the longer stay the cover must be Care College (Incoming for students, Sprachschüler, internship under § 17) or Care Expatriate. The host company's invitation letter does NOT replace this — the Ausländerbehörde checks the insurance separately. 

Key facts at a glance Reviewed September 4, 2026

-   **Schengen Visa Code: minimum 30 000 € medical cover plus repatriation:** EU Regulation 810/2009 (Schengen Visa Code) requires every short-stay (≤ 90 days) visa applicant to prove travel medical insurance with at least 30 000 € cover, valid in all 27,50 €/MonatSchengen states. Below this threshold the consulate must refuse the visa. (Source: EU Reg. 810/2009 Art. 15).
-   **National D-visa for pre-studies internship: § 17 AufenthG, up to 12 months:** An internship that is part of a study preparation, recognised academic exchange or company training programme is granted under § 17 AufenthG. The Ausländerbehörde requires recognised health insurance for the entire stay — Care College from €27.50/month is the standard for this case. (Source: § 17 AufenthG · HanseMerkur Care College AVB).
-   **Care College closes at age 39 — Care Expatriate covers older interns:** Care College is open from age 12 to 39 (entry age). For pre-studies interns aged 30 and older the standard recognised replacement is Care Expatriate from €58/month (Basic, entry age 13–40) up to €432/month (Premium, entry age 61–74), with cover up to 60 months. (Source: HanseMerkur Care College / Care Expatriate AVB 2026).
-   **Average uninsured emergency-room visit in Germany: ~€830 per day:** The Statistisches Bundesamt's DRG data shows an average inpatient day rate of around €830 (basic ward) — without recognised health insurance the foreign intern pays this in cash before discharge. A €27.50 monthly premium prevents this risk completely. (Source: Statistisches Bundesamt DRG 2024).

## Five typical mistakes with pre-studies internship insurance

**Quick answer:** "Which insurance does the German embassy accept for my pre-studies internship?" — most foreign interns run into one of five issues: buying a home-country travel policy the embassy won't recognise; assuming the Schengen tariff covers the longer D-visa stay; choosing Care College above age 39; missing the 30 000 € minimum cover for Schengen; or expecting the host company's invitation letter to replace the insurance certificate.

## 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 an uninsured day during a pre-studies internship 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 in the next 14 days? Care College delivers the recognised PDF in minutes

## 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.

## From application to visa-appointment certificate — in 3 steps

10 minutes online, certificate by email, accepted by every German embassy and Ausländerbehörde for § 17 AufenthG. The same Care College policy stays valid into the studies if you continue at a German university — see also the [study-preparation visa guide](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/study-preparation-visa-language-college-health-insurance-germany/).

## 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 pre-studies interns say about Care College for the § 17 AufenthG internship visa 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/) 

## The 2 products that cover pre-studies interns in Germany

🎓 § 17 AufenthG D-visa internship

### 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

✈️ Schengen ≤ 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

Age 30+ or longer than 12 months? [Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) is the standard recognised replacement (up to 5 years, recognised globally). Compare all 11 tariffs in the [foreign-students hub](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/).

## Full price tables — Schengen, D-visa internship and 30+ bridge

**Quick answer:** Three recognised products cover the entire pre-studies spectrum: Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day for the Schengen short-stay, Care College from €27.50/month for the § 17 AufenthG D-visa, and Care Expatriate from €58/month (ages 13–40) for applicants aged 30 or older, or stays longer than 12 months.

### ≤ 90 days Schengen — Care Visa Protect

Daily premium, EU Reg. 810/2009 compliant, 30 000 € medical cover plus repatriation, valid in all 27,50 €/MonatSchengen states:

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/)

### § 17 AufenthG D-visa internship — Care College

Three tiers (Basic / Comfort / Premium), 1–60 months, ages 12–40 (entry), recognised by every German Ausländerbehörde for the residence permit during the internship:

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/)

### Age 30+ or longer stay — Care Expatriate

Three tiers (Basic / Comfort / Premium), 1–60 months, recognised globally incl. home country, no excess — the standard fallback when Care College is closed by age:

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/)

Sources: HanseMerkur Care Visa Protect / Care College / Care Expatriate AVB 2026, EU Reg. 810/2009, § 6 / § 17 AufenthG, Auswärtiges Amt visa requirements 2026. The exact price is calculated in the online application.

[Care College](/en/insurance-plans/care-college/overview/)[Care Visa Protect](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) [Care Expatriate (30+)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)

## Frequently Asked Questions

What health insurance do I need for a pre-study internship in Germany? 

Care College starts from €27.50/month (Basic, up to age 29) and is recognized by immigration offices and universities. If your employer does not register you for social insurance, you need private incoming insurance. The insurance certificate is available instantly via email.

Can I switch from internship insurance to student insurance later? 

€135.52/month at DAK-Gesundheit). Yes. Once you enroll at a German university (Immatrikulation), you can switch to the statutory student tariff (GKV, approx. Plan the transition in advance to avoid coverage gaps.

Is incoming insurance accepted by the Ausländerbehörde for an internship visa? 

From €27.50/month (Care College) or €101.54/month (Care Student under § 5 SGB V): In most cases, yes — provided the policy covers outpatient treatment, inpatient care, and medical repatriation. Care College meets these requirements and is frequently accepted by German immigration authorities for residence permit applications.

Does a paid pre-study internship trigger GKV in Germany? 

Below the threshold, private Care College from €27.50/month remains valid. Yes — if the internship is paid above €538/month (Minijob threshold 2026) and lasts more than 3 months, the employer must register you in GKV (DAK-Gesundheit ~17.8% of gross, split 8.9%/8.9%).

Which visa applies to an internship before studies in Germany? 

Typically § 17 AufenthG (Praktikum) for short pre-study internships or § 16f AufenthG (Sprachkurs/Studienbewerbung). Both require health insurance from entry day — Care College (from €27.50/month) is the recognised private option; embassies also accept Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) for short internships up to 92 days.

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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 4, 2026.