--- title: "From €135.52/mo · Semester Break Insurance · Germany 2026" description: "Semester break in Germany: health insurance is mandatory for 12 months — no pause possible (§ 5 SGB V). DAK-Studenten ~€135.52/month continues, Care Economy from ~€1/day for non-EU home trips." 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": "Semester Break in Germany: Must Health Insurance Run Continuously — or Is a Pause Possible?", "description": "Semester break in Germany: health insurance is mandatory for 12 months — no pause possible (§ 5 SGB V). DAK-Studenten ~€135.52/month continues, Care Economy from ~€1/day for non-EU home trips.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" ] }, "reviewedBy": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" ] }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/logo.jpg" }, "sameAs": [ "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q316831", "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krankenversicherung", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_insurance" ] }, "datePublished": "2026-08-30", "dateModified": "2026-09-10", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-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": "Semester Break Insurance in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-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": "Does student health insurance continue during a semester break in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) and Care Student (€101.54/month) both continue seamlessly through the semester break as long as you remain matriculated at a German university — no separate booking or pause is needed." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I pause student health insurance during holidays in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No — under § 5 SGB V and § 8 SGB V, student health insurance cannot be paused while you are enrolled. DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) or Care Student (€101.54/month) run continuously — Krankenversicherungspflicht applies for the residence permit under § 5 AufenthG." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Am I still insured if I travel home during semester break as a student in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — DAK-Studenten covers EU/EEA travel via EHIC; Care Student includes worldwide emergency cover." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What insurance covers a full-time job during the semester break in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Full-time work is allowed during semester break under § 16b AufenthG without losing DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) status, provided you stay within the 140-full / 280-half day cap per calendar year. Contributions to DAK-Studenten remain unchanged." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need travel insurance if I leave Germany during semester break?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For non-EU destinations or stays over 6 weeks, add Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) or a private travel add-on to cover the gaps. For short EU trips, the EHIC included with DAK-Studenten is typically enough." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need health insurance during semester breaks in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Health insurance is mandatory in Germany year-round, including during the lecture-free period (vorlesungsfreie Zeit). Your GKV student tariff at DAK-Gesundheit (~€135.52/month) continues without interruption. Cancelling or pausing is not legally possible and would jeopardise your enrolment and residence permit. → DAK student health insurance — instant M10" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Am I covered by German health insurance when traveling home during breaks?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In EU/EEA countries, Switzerland and the UK, your GKV provides basic emergency coverage via the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card). For non-EU countries (USA, India, China, Brazil, most African states) there is NO GKV coverage — you need an additional travel health insurance such as Care Economy from ~€30 per 30 days (≈ €1.00/day for visitors up to age 64). → Care Economy — Reise-Brücke" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if I cancel my German health insurance during the semester break?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Re-entry into the GKV is not guaranteed, and any gap in coverage will be reported to the university and immigration office, jeopardising both enrolment and your residence permit. If you no longer qualify for the DAK student tariff (over 30, exempted, PhD), the official alternative is Care Student at €101.54/month (12–29 yrs) or €127.60/month (30–39 yrs) — recognised as GKV-equivalent under § 8 SGB V. → Care Student — for 30+ and PhD" } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does student health insurance continue during a semester break in Germany?", "text": "Does student health insurance continue during a semester break in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) and Care Student (€101.54/month) both continue seamlessly through the semester break as long as you remain matriculated at a German university — no separate booking or pause is needed.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I pause student health insurance during holidays in Germany?", "text": "Can I pause student health insurance during holidays in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No — under § 5 SGB V and § 8 SGB V, student health insurance cannot be paused while you are enrolled. DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) or Care Student (€101.54/month) run continuously — Krankenversicherungspflicht applies for the residence permit under § 5 AufenthG.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Am I still insured if I travel home during semester break as a student in Germany?", "text": "Am I still insured if I travel home during semester break as a student in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — DAK-Studenten covers EU/EEA travel via EHIC; Care Student includes worldwide emergency cover.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What insurance covers a full-time job during the semester break in Germany?", "text": "What insurance covers a full-time job during the semester break in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Full-time work is allowed during semester break under § 16b AufenthG without losing DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) status, provided you stay within the 140-full / 280-half day cap per calendar year. Contributions to DAK-Studenten remain unchanged.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need travel insurance if I leave Germany during semester break?", "text": "Do I need travel insurance if I leave Germany during semester break?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For non-EU destinations or stays over 6 weeks, add Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) or a private travel add-on to cover the gaps. For short EU trips, the EHIC included with DAK-Studenten is typically enough.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need health insurance during semester breaks in Germany?", "text": "Do I need health insurance during semester breaks in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Health insurance is mandatory in Germany year-round, including during the lecture-free period (vorlesungsfreie Zeit). Your GKV student tariff at DAK-Gesundheit (~€135.52/month) continues without interruption. Cancelling or pausing is not legally possible and would jeopardise your enrolment and residence permit. → DAK student health insurance — instant M10", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Am I covered by German health insurance when traveling home during breaks?", "text": "Am I covered by German health insurance when traveling home during breaks?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In EU/EEA countries, Switzerland and the UK, your GKV provides basic emergency coverage via the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card). For non-EU countries (USA, India, China, Brazil, most African states) there is NO GKV coverage — you need an additional travel health insurance such as Care Economy from ~€30 per 30 days (≈ €1.00/day for visitors up to age 64). → Care Economy — Reise-Brücke", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if I cancel my German health insurance during the semester break?", "text": "What happens if I cancel my German health insurance during the semester break?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Re-entry into the GKV is not guaranteed, and any gap in coverage will be reported to the university and immigration office, jeopardising both enrolment and your residence permit. If you no longer qualify for the DAK student tariff (over 30, exempted, PhD), the official alternative is Care Student at €101.54/month (12–29 yrs) or €127.60/month (30–39 yrs) — recognised as GKV-equivalent under § 8 SGB V. → Care Student — for 30+ and PhD", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/semester-break-health-insurance-continuous-or-pause-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-10", "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/) [DAK-Gesundheit (continuous, 12 months a year) ab nur ca. 135,52 € / Monat (unbegrenzt) ](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/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. Semester Break Insurance in Germany # Semester Break in Germany: Must Health Insurance Run Continuously — or Is a Pause Possible? - [DAK-Gesundheit: from €135.52/month](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) (continuous, 12 months a year — no pause) - [Care Student: from €101.54/month](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) (over 30 / GKV-exempt / PhD, also continuous) - [Care Economy: from €30 / 30 days](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) (≈ €1/day, non-EU home trip top-up) 12 months/year no pause possible EHIC inside EU on the back of eGK 1 % per month Säumniszuschlag if you stop Sources: § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V (12-month obligation) · § 24 SGB IV (Säumniszuschlag 1 %/Mo) · EU Reg. 883/2004 (EHIC) · § 5 AufenthG · DAK-Gesundheit contribution statement 2025 · HanseMerkur Care Economy AVB **Health insurance in Germany is mandatory 12 months a year — also during the lecture-free period (§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V).** A pause is not legally possible. [DAK-Studenten](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) runs automatically through the semester break, also during a home trip. For over-30 / GKV-exempt / PhD students [Care Student from €101.54/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) is the GKV-equivalent continuous alternative. Inside the EU/EEA the EHIC card on the back of the eGK covers acute care. For non-EU home trips (Turkey, India, Russia, Brazil, China, USA…) the EHIC is invalid — close the gap with [Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) (≈ €1/day, Care Economy ages up to 64). DAK keeps running in parallel so the German cover stays unbroken on return. Working more than 20 h/week during the break is allowed with a written limitation — see the [part-time job guide](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/part-time-job-student-health-insurance-what-changes-self-germany/). Below: why a pause is legally impossible, what the 1 % Säumniszuschlag actually costs after a single missed month, when EHIC is enough and when Care Economy is mandatory, why a SEPA standing order from a German account beats a transfer from home, the four typical mistakes that block the next Rückmeldung at the university, and the full DAK / Care Student / Care Economy price tables. 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 10, 2026** Sources§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V (12-month obligation) · § 24 SGB IV (1 % Säumniszuschlag) · EU Reg. 883/2004 (EHIC) · § 5 AufenthG · DAK-Gesundheit contribution statement 2025 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Semester break ahead? Keep DAK running automatically — and add Care Economy for non-EU home trips in 5 minutes. [DAK-Gesundheit (continuous, 12 months/year) ab nur ca. 135,52 € / Monat (unbegrenzt) ](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/)[Care Economy (non-EU travel top-up) from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) [🔍 Plan Finder](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[📋 All Plans](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🏛️ Authority-approved 📄 Instant proof 🔒 DAK / HanseMerkur 🏷️ Transparent pricing 4.9/5 · Over 10,000 policies placed since 2009 from 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/), not independently verified · [How this rating works](/en/review-methodology/) ## 📌 TL;DR — at a glance - Health insurance in Germany is mandatory 12 months a year — also during the semester break (§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V). There is NO legal pause, not during the lecture-free period and not during a home trip. DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month with Garantietarif 120 saving €120/year) keeps running automatically; for over-30 / GKV-exempt / PhD it is Care Student (€101.54/month). - Inside the EU/EEA the EHIC card on the back of the eGK covers acute, medically necessary care. For non-EU home trips (Turkey, India, Russia, Brazil, China, USA…) the EHIC is invalid — close the gap with Care Economy from ~€30/30 days (≈ €1/day for ages up to 64). DAK-Gesundheit keeps running in parallel so the German cover stays unbroken on return. - Stopping the contribution is risky: 1 % Säumniszuschlag per month, re-registration block at the university (Rückmeldesperre), and on the next residence-permit renewal the Ausländerbehörde can refuse the extension because of a coverage gap (§ 5 AufenthG). Set up a SEPA standing order so the German account never falls into arrears while you are abroad. Key facts at a glance Reviewed September 10, 2026 - **12-month insurance obligation (§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V):** Statutory student insurance applies 12 months a year — also during the lecture-free period and also during a home trip. There is no legal pause. DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) keeps running automatically; for over 30 / GKV-exempt / PhD it is Care Student (€101.54/month). (Source: § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V). - **EHIC inside EU/EEA — Care Economy (~€1/day) for non-EU home trips:** Inside the EU/EEA the EHIC card on the back of the eGK covers acute care. For non-EU countries (Turkey, India, Russia, Brazil, China, USA…) the EHIC is invalid; the standard top-up is Care Economy from ~€30/30 days (~€1/day for ages up to 64) — DAK keeps running in parallel. (Source: EU Reg. 883/2004 · HanseMerkur Care Economy AVB). - **Säumniszuschlag 1 % per month + Rückmeldesperre if you stop paying:** Stopping the DAK contribution triggers 1 % Säumniszuschlag per month (§ 24 SGB IV), a re-registration block at the university for the next semester, and on the next residence-permit renewal the Ausländerbehörde can refuse the extension because of a coverage gap (§ 5 AufenthG). (Source: § 24 SGB IV · § 5 AufenthG). - **Working > 20 h/week during the break: allowed if limited in writing:** During the lecture-free period a Werkstudent may work more than 20 h/week — provided the contract limits the higher hours in writing to the semester break only. The DAK student tariff stays unchanged. Without the written limitation the Werkstudent privilege can be revoked retroactively for the lecture period too. (Source: § 6 SGB V · DAK-Gesundheit operations 2025). ## Four typical mistakes around the semester break **Quick answer:** "Why was my Rückmeldung blocked at the start of the new semester?" — most cases share one of four issues: assuming insurance can be paused for a few weeks at home; relying on EHIC for a non-EU home country; stopping the SEPA standing order during the break and collecting Säumniszuschläge; or missing the M10 confirmation before the Rückmeldung deadline at the university. ## 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 stopping the GKV contribution 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. ## Travelling outside the EU? Add Care Economy before departure — booked in 5 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. ## Stay covered through the semester break — in 3 steps 10 minutes online. Set up the SEPA standing order so DAK keeps collecting; add Care Economy for non-EU home trips; keep the M10 confirmation in your email so the university Rückmeldung is not blocked when the new semester starts. ## 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 staying covered through the German semester break 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 for the semester break 🎯 Continuous · under 30 · M10 included ### DAK-Gesundheit Students from €145.52 / month (effectively from €135.52 with DAK Garantietarif 120 possible) For international students in Germany up to age 29 - Accepted for university enrollment – electronic M10 notification - Visa confirmation directly after application - Statutory health insurance + mandatory long-term care insurance included - Doctor, dentist, hospital, pharmacy & prescription medication coverage - Health insurance card for medical treatment in Germany - Apply online from your home country – no German address required - Save €120 per year with DAK Garantietarif 120 possible - Alternative: DAK Fit & Travel with additional benefits - 2026 contributions: from €145.52 · effectively from €135.52 possible - Reputable statutory health insurance provider Why DAK-Gesundheit? For international students in Germany who need statutory health insurance for a visa, university and enrollment — including M10 notification and a health insurance card. Why statutory student health insurance? More security for your studies and enrollment: full statutory health coverage, electronic notification to the university and clear acceptance for enrollment. - 🏛️ DAK-Gesundheit - 📄 M10 notification + visa confirmation after application - 🔒 Doctor, dentist, clinic, pharmacy & prescription medication - 🏷️ From €145.52 / month · effectively from €135.52 possible [DAK-Gesundheit – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/apply/) → Complete the application, receive visa confirmation, secure your M10 notification ✈️ Non-EU home trip top-up ### Care Economy from only €30.00 / 30 days (coverage up to 2 years) For guests, tourists, family visits, job seekers & the German Opportunity Card - Proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities within minutes - Affordable coverage from €1.00 per day - Doctor, hospital & dental emergency coverage - Suitable for Schengen visas, the Opportunity Card & family visits - Flexible coverage from 1 day up to 2 years - Coverage in Germany, the EU & the Schengen Area - 24/7 assistance + digital insurance card - Age-based rates: from €1.00/day up to age 64 · from €2.95/day for ages 65–74 - Coverage term: 1 day to 2 years · entry age 0–74 - Reputable insurance carrier Why Care Economy? For anyone who needs fast, affordable proof of health insurance — ideal for guests, visitors, tourists, family visits or job seekers, with doctor/clinic coverage subject to the policy terms and benefits. Why a 2-year coverage term? More flexibility when plans are uncertain: if your visa, trip or stay is extended, you avoid last-minute renewal stress and reduce the risk of a coverage gap. - 🏛️ HanseMerkur Insurance Group Hamburg – Advigon Insurance AG - 📄 Instant proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities (PDF) - 🔒 Doctor, clinic, dental emergency & repatriation coverage - 🏷️ From €30 / 30 days · up to 2 years possible [Care Economy – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/apply/) → Complete the application, receive your instant PDF, submit your proof For over 30 / GKV-exempt / PhD students see the [age-30 / student tariff guide](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/student-tariff-age-limit-30-years-when-it-ends-germany/); the M10 workflow is in the [M10 enrolment proof guide](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-proof-enrollment-university-germany/). Compare all 11 tariffs in the [foreign-students hub](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/). ## Full price tables — all brackets by age & duration **Quick answer:** The three tariffs that matter for the semester break: DAK-Gesundheit (~€135.52/month) continuous for under-30, Care Student (€101.54/month) continuous for over 30 / GKV-exempt / PhD, and Care Economy from ~€30/30 days as the non-EU home-trip top-up. ### DAK-Gesundheit — three statutory student tariffs Garantietarif 120 saves €120/year. Runs continuously through the lecture-free period and also during home trips. M10 notification filed automatically: 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 — GKV-equivalent (over 30 / GKV-exempt / PhD) Total €101.54/month: CCS €35 + PVN €58.04 + Pflege €8.50. Continuous cover, M10 notification included, accepted by the university after § 8 SGB V exemption: 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/) ### Care Economy — non-EU home-trip top-up ~€30/30 days for ages up to 64 (≈ €1/day); from about €88.50/30 days for ages 65 and over. Bookable per day, runs in parallel with DAK so the German cover stays unbroken: Care Economy Duration Bestseller up to 64 up to 64 Bestseller 65+ 65+ no deductible with deductible no deductible with deductible up to 90 days €1.18/day €1.00/day €3.48/day €2.95/day 91–180 days €1.59/day €1.35/day €4.37/day €3.70/day 181–365 days €2.30/day €1.95/day €5.84/day €4.95/day 366–730 days €2.83/day €2.40/day €9.32/day €7.90/day All prices per day/person in euros. Minimum premium €10 per person and term. Deductible is the share you pay yourself. Entry age 0–74. As of 2026. [Care Economy — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) Sources: DAK-Gesundheit contribution statement 2025, Care Concept AG tariff tables 2024/25, HanseMerkur AVB. The exact price is calculated in the online application. [DAK-Gesundheit](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/)[Care Student overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) [Care Economy (non-EU top-up)](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) ## Frequently Asked Questions Does student health insurance continue during a semester break in Germany? DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) and Care Student (€101.54/month) both continue seamlessly through the semester break as long as you remain matriculated at a German university — no separate booking or pause is needed. Can I pause student health insurance during holidays in Germany? No — under § 5 SGB V and § 8 SGB V, student health insurance cannot be paused while you are enrolled. DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) or Care Student (€101.54/month) run continuously — Krankenversicherungspflicht applies for the residence permit under § 5 AufenthG. Am I still insured if I travel home during semester break as a student in Germany? Yes — DAK-Studenten covers EU/EEA travel via EHIC; Care Student includes worldwide emergency cover. What insurance covers a full-time job during the semester break in Germany? Full-time work is allowed during semester break under § 16b AufenthG without losing DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) status, provided you stay within the 140-full / 280-half day cap per calendar year. Contributions to DAK-Studenten remain unchanged. Do I need travel insurance if I leave Germany during semester break? For non-EU destinations or stays over 6 weeks, add Care Visa Protect (from €0.85/day) or a private travel add-on to cover the gaps. For short EU trips, the EHIC included with DAK-Studenten is typically enough. Do I need health insurance during semester breaks in Germany? Yes. Health insurance is mandatory in Germany year-round, including during the lecture-free period (vorlesungsfreie Zeit). Your GKV student tariff at DAK-Gesundheit (~€135.52/month) continues without interruption. Cancelling or pausing is not legally possible and would jeopardise your enrolment and residence permit. → [DAK student health insurance — instant M10](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) Am I covered by German health insurance when traveling home during breaks? In EU/EEA countries, Switzerland and the UK, your GKV provides basic emergency coverage via the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card). For non-EU countries (USA, India, China, Brazil, most African states) there is NO GKV coverage — you need an additional travel health insurance such as Care Economy from ~€30 per 30 days (≈ €1.00/day for visitors up to age 64). → [Care Economy — Reise-Brücke](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) What happens if I cancel my German health insurance during the semester break? Re-entry into the GKV is not guaranteed, and any gap in coverage will be reported to the university and immigration office, jeopardising both enrolment and your residence permit. If you no longer qualify for the DAK student tariff (over 30, exempted, PhD), the official alternative is Care Student at €101.54/month (12–29 yrs) or €127.60/month (30–39 yrs) — recognised as GKV-equivalent under § 8 SGB V. → [Care Student — for 30+ and PhD](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) [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 10, 2026.