--- title: "From €27.50/mo · Working Student Mini Job Germany 2026" description: "Working Student Mini Job Internship Differences Health Insurance Short Explained: practical guidance for foreigners in Germany." 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": "Working Student, Mini-Job, Internship in Germany", "description": "Working Student Mini Job Internship Differences Health Insurance Short Explained: practical guidance for foreigners in Germany.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" ] }, "reviewedBy": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" ] }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/logo.jpg" }, "sameAs": [ "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q316831", "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krankenversicherung", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_insurance" ] }, "datePublished": "2026-09-03", "dateModified": "2026-09-08", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/" }, "image": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/images/og/og-krankenversicherung-auslaender.webp", "about": [], "mentions": [ { "@type": "Thing", "name": "DAK-Gesundheit", "url": "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/DAK-Gesundheit" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Techniker Krankenkasse", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Techniker_Krankenkasse" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "AOK", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AOK" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "SGB V (German Social Code Book V)", "url": "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sozialgesetzbuch_(F%C3%BCnftes_Buch)" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "Healthcare in Germany", "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Healthcare_in_Germany" }, { "@type": "Thing", "name": "HanseMerkur", "url": "https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/HanseMerkur" } ], "inLanguage": [ "en" ], "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "[data-aeo='answer-lead']", "[data-aeo='answer']", "h1" ] } } ], { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Guide to Health Insurance in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Foreign Students in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Working Student & Mini-Job in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-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": "Working student vs mini-job — which one changes German student health insurance?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Werkstudent status (up to 20h/week during lectures) keeps you on DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month). A pure mini-job up to €538/month stays under the marginal-employment threshold and also leaves the student tariff intact — full-time work above 20h triggers regular GKV." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is a mini-job allowed on a German student residence permit?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — under § 16b AufenthG international students may work 140 full or 280 half days per year plus unlimited hours during semester break. A €538/month mini-job counts inside that quota and does not affect the DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) tariff." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens to health insurance during a paid internship in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A mandatory internship (Pflichtpraktikum) during studies is insurance-free — DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) continues. A voluntary paid internship over 20h/week triggers regular GKV via the employer (~17.8% of gross, split 50/50)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do Werkstudent contributions replace DAK-Studenten in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No — GKV, unemployment and long-term care contributions are waived." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does a mini-job count towards the 140/280-day rule for international students in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — all employment — Werkstudent, mini-job or internship — counts against the 140 full / 280 half days per calendar year cap under § 16b AufenthG. Exceeding it can affect the student residence permit; DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) coverage itself is unchanged." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I keep my student health insurance as a working student in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, as long as you work no more than 20 hours per week during lecture periods (the 'Werkstudentenprivileg'). Your GKV student rate (~€135/month) remains unchanged. During semester breaks, you can work more hours without losing this status — up to 27,50 €/Monatweeks per year." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does a minijob affect my health insurance as an international student?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No, a minijob up to €556/month typically has no impact on your GKV student rate. However, if you exceed the income limit, the job becomes a 'Midijob' with mandatory social insurance contributions. Always check your total income across all jobs." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens to my insurance during an internship in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For mandatory internships (required by your study program), your student health insurance remains unaffected regardless of pay. Voluntary internships over 3 months with pay above €556/month may trigger social insurance obligations. For more details, see the DAK student rate." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Working student vs mini-job — which one changes German student health insurance?", "text": "Working student vs mini-job — which one changes German student health insurance?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Werkstudent status (up to 20h/week during lectures) keeps you on DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month). A pure mini-job up to €538/month stays under the marginal-employment threshold and also leaves the student tariff intact — full-time work above 20h triggers regular GKV.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is a mini-job allowed on a German student residence permit?", "text": "Is a mini-job allowed on a German student residence permit?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — under § 16b AufenthG international students may work 140 full or 280 half days per year plus unlimited hours during semester break. A €538/month mini-job counts inside that quota and does not affect the DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) tariff.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens to health insurance during a paid internship in Germany?", "text": "What happens to health insurance during a paid internship in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A mandatory internship (Pflichtpraktikum) during studies is insurance-free — DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) continues. A voluntary paid internship over 20h/week triggers regular GKV via the employer (~17.8% of gross, split 50/50).", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do Werkstudent contributions replace DAK-Studenten in Germany?", "text": "Do Werkstudent contributions replace DAK-Studenten in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No — GKV, unemployment and long-term care contributions are waived.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does a mini-job count towards the 140/280-day rule for international students in Germany?", "text": "Does a mini-job count towards the 140/280-day rule for international students in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — all employment — Werkstudent, mini-job or internship — counts against the 140 full / 280 half days per calendar year cap under § 16b AufenthG. Exceeding it can affect the student residence permit; DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) coverage itself is unchanged.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I keep my student health insurance as a working student in Germany?", "text": "Do I keep my student health insurance as a working student in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, as long as you work no more than 20 hours per week during lecture periods (the 'Werkstudentenprivileg'). Your GKV student rate (~€135/month) remains unchanged. During semester breaks, you can work more hours without losing this status — up to 27,50 €/Monatweeks per year.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does a minijob affect my health insurance as an international student?", "text": "Does a minijob affect my health insurance as an international student?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No, a minijob up to €556/month typically has no impact on your GKV student rate. However, if you exceed the income limit, the job becomes a 'Midijob' with mandatory social insurance contributions. Always check your total income across all jobs.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens to my insurance during an internship in Germany?", "text": "What happens to my insurance during an internship in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For mandatory internships (required by your study program), your student health insurance remains unaffected regardless of pay. Voluntary internships over 3 months with pay above €556/month may trigger social insurance obligations. For more details, see the DAK student rate.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/working-student-mini-job-internship-health-insurance-differences-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-08", "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 student tariff — works with Werkstudent / Minijob from €135.52/month (open-ended) ](/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. Working Student & Mini-Job in Germany One hour over the 20h/week limit during semester can lose you the cheap GKV student tariff for the rest of your studies # Working Student, Mini-Job, Internship in Germany 4.9/5 · 10,000+ policies since 2009 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) ![Working student, mini-job and internship — health-insurance differences for foreign students in Germany](/assets/schloss-neuschwanstein-rentner-deutschland-BUe6CLV2.jpg) - [Werkstudent ≤ 20h/wk: DAK student tariff stays from €135.52/mo](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) (Werkstudentenprivileg · vs. ~17.8% gross as employee) - [Minijob ≤ €538/mo: GKV-neutral, student tariff unchanged](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) (§ 8 SGB IV · vs. losing student tariff for good) - [Voluntary Praktikum > limits: DAK employees ~17.8% of gross](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/overview/) (employer pays half · student tariff irreversibly lost) Werkstudent ≤ 20h/wk · safe Minijob ≤ €538/mo · safe Praktikum Pflicht ≠ freiwillig All three formats can be combined with the cheap GKV student tariff — but each has one specific limit that, once crossed, ends the student status: 1. 1 **Werkstudent (working student):** max 20 hours per week during the lecture period (Werkstudentenprivileg, § 6 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 SGB V). Salary is irrelevant. Outside the semester you may work full-time. Cheap [DAK-Gesundheit student tariff from €135.52/month (open-ended)](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/) stays in place — only the pension contribution (~9.3%) is deducted. 2. 2 **Minijob (geringfügige Beschäftigung):** max €538/month per § 8 SGB IV — GKV-neutral. The student tariff stays unchanged at the same price. Pension contribution (~3.6%) can be opted out of. Combining several Minijobs above €538 in total triggers full social insurance. 3. 3 **Praktikum (internship):** Pflichtpraktikum (mandatory by study regulation) is always insurance-neutral — the student tariff stays regardless of pay/hours. A freiwilliges Praktikum above 20h/wk or €538/mo flips you into a regular employee → [DAK-Gesundheit (employees) 17.8% of gross (open-ended)](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/overview/) and the cheap student tariff is irreversibly lost for the rest of the studies. Not sure which limit applies to your contract? [30-second tariff finder →](/en/tariffinder-germany/) Inside: the one-hour rule that quietly ends the Werkstudentenprivileg · why a Pflichtpraktikum at €4,000/month is still GKV-neutral · the multi-Minijob trap that triggers full social insurance Sources: § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V (student tariff) · § 6 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 SGB V (Werkstudentenprivileg) · § 8 SGB IV (geringfügige Beschäftigung / Minijob) · § 10 SGB V (Familienversicherung) · § 16b AufenthG (study residence permit) · DAK-Gesundheit Beitragssatzordnung 2025 · Minijob-Zentrale 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 8, 2026** Sources§ 5 / § 6 SGB V · § 8 SGB IV · § 10 SGB V · § 16b AufenthG · DAK-Gesundheit operations 2025 · Minijob-Zentrale 2026 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Already have a job offer? Confirm in 60 seconds whether your contract keeps the cheap GKV student tariff or switches you to ~17.8% of gross. [DAK-Gesundheit (students) — works with Werkstudent / Minijob from €135.52/month (open-ended) ](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/)[DAK-Gesundheit (employees) — when limits are exceeded 17.8% of gross (open-ended) ](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/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 - All three job formats — Werkstudent, Minijob, Praktikum — are compatible with the cheap GKV student tariff (~€135.52/month at DAK-Gesundheit) AS LONG AS specific limits are respected. Werkstudent: max 20 hours per week during the lecture period (Werkstudentenprivileg, § 6 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 SGB V). Minijob: max €538/month (geringfügig, § 8 SGB IV). Pflichtpraktikum (mandatory by study regulation): always insurance-neutral. Voluntary internship above 20h/week or €538/month flips the student into a regular employee — DAK-Gesundheit at ~17.8% of gross applies, and the cheap student tariff is lost for the rest of the studies. - The most expensive mistake foreign students make: a freiwilliges Praktikum (voluntary internship) outside the semester break with full hours and a normal salary. The Werkstudentenprivileg does NOT apply, the GKV reclassifies retroactively, and the student tariff cannot be reactivated until a clean re-enrollment in a new program. The 14-semester rule of § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 SGB V continues to count regardless. If the student tariff is lost and the student is 30+ or in PhD phase, the standard recognised replacement is Care Student at €101.54/month (HanseMerkur, M10 to the university). - Income tax thresholds (Werkstudenten ~€11,604/year tax-free, Minijob exempt up to €538/month) are independent of the GKV rules. Family insurance (Familienversicherung § 10 SGB V) for foreign students under 25 also has its own income limit (~€505/month in 2026) — exceeding it ends the free family cover. The €11,904 Sperrkonto limit and any Werkstudent salary do NOT count against the residence-permit study-progress check (§ 16b AufenthG) as long as the 20h/week limit is respected during the lecture period. Key facts at a glance Reviewed September 8, 2026 - **Werkstudent: max 20 hours per week during the lecture period:** The Werkstudentenprivileg (§ 6 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 SGB V) is attached to the 20h/week limit during the semester. Salary is irrelevant. During the semester break (vorlesungsfreie Zeit) full-time is allowed without losing the privilege. (Source: § 6 Abs. 1 Nr. 3 SGB V). - **Minijob: GKV-neutral up to €538/month (geringfügige Beschäftigung):** Below €538/month total (combined across all Minijobs) the cheap GKV student tariff stays in place. The employer pays a 13% flat-rate to the GKV; the student pays nothing extra. Pension contribution (~3.6%) can be opted out of via written declaration to the employer. (Source: § 8 SGB IV · Minijob-Zentrale 2026). - **Pflichtpraktikum: always insurance-neutral, regardless of pay or hours:** An internship that is a mandatory part of the study regulation (confirmed by the university) does not change the GKV status — the student tariff stays at €135.52/month even at full-time and high salary. The university's confirmation letter is the legal proof for the GKV. (Source: § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 10 SGB V). - **Voluntary internship > 20h/wk or > €538/mo: full employee, ~17.8% of gross:** A freiwilliges Praktikum that exceeds the Werkstudent limits during the lecture period flips the student into a regular employee. DAK-Gesundheit applies at ~17.8% of gross (half paid by the employer); the cheap student tariff is irreversibly lost for the rest of the studies. (Source: § 5 SGB V · DAK-Gesundheit operations 2025). ## Five typical mistakes with student jobs in Germany **Quick answer:** "Can I keep my cheap student insurance with this job?" — most foreign students run into one of five issues: working 21+ hours during the semester; combining two Minijobs above €538/month; signing a long voluntary internship without checking the regulation; assuming Familienversicherung still applies above ~€505/month income; or forgetting that the 14-semester rule keeps counting in the background. ## 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 losing the GKV student tariff actually costs over a 5-year degree ## 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. ## Job contract on the table? Lock in DAK student tariff before signing ## 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 on the cheap student tariff — in 3 steps Confirm the contract type, check the hour/salary limit, get the recognised proof. If a voluntary internship pushes you over the limit, the student tariff ends — see also the [de-enrollment timeline guide](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/de-enrollment-when-student-status-ends-what-happens-to-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 working students say about keeping the DAK student tariff during a Werkstudent contract 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 student jobs the right way 🎓 Werkstudent / Minijob / Pflichtpraktikum ### 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 💼 Limits exceeded — full employee ### DAK-Gesundheit Employees currently 17.8% of gross income (employer pays half · plus long-term care insurance) For foreign employees with a social-security-covered job in Germany - Statutory health insurance for employees in Germany - Employer pays half of the health insurance contribution - Family coverage for spouse & children may be possible under statutory rules - Doctor, dentist, hospital, pharmacy & prescription medication coverage - Health insurance card for medical treatment in Germany - EU/EEA coverage via the European Health Insurance Card - Save €120 per year with DAK Garantietarif 120 possible - Optional: DAK Fit & Travel with additional benefits up to age 39 - Mandatory long-term care insurance also applies - Reputable statutory health insurance provider Why DAK-Gesundheit? For foreign employees in Germany who need statutory health insurance with a health insurance card, employer contribution and possible family coverage. Why statutory health insurance as an employee? More security in everyday working life in Germany: the employer pays half, family members may be covered free of charge under certain conditions, and medical treatment is handled easily through the health insurance card. - 🏛️ DAK-Gesundheit - 📄 Membership certificate for employers & authorities - 🔒 Doctor, dentist, clinic, pharmacy & prescription medication - 🏷️ Currently 17.8% of gross income · employer pays half [DAK-Gesundheit – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/apply/) → Complete the application, start your membership, receive your health insurance card 30+, PhD or GKV-exempt? [Care Student from €101.54/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) is the recognised replacement (M10 to the university). Compare all 11 tariffs in the [foreign-students hub](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/). ## Full price tables — student tariff vs. employee tariff **Quick answer:** Two products cover the entire spectrum: DAK-Gesundheit (students) from €135.52/month for Werkstudent / Minijob / Pflichtpraktikum, and DAK-Gesundheit (employees) at ~17.8% of gross when limits are exceeded. ### Within limits — DAK-Gesundheit (students) Stays valid throughout Werkstudent contracts (≤ 20h/wk), Minijobs (≤ €538/month) and any Pflichtpraktikum: 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/) ### Limits exceeded — DAK-Gesundheit (employees) ~17.8% of gross income (half paid by the employer), automatic enrolment from day 1 of the contract — applies as soon as the Werkstudent / Minijob limits are crossed: DAK-Gesundheit for employees (statutory) General contribution rate 14.6 % of gross \+ 3.2 % DAK supplement = 17.8 % Employer / employee share 8.9 % each Paid 50/50 Compulsory long-term care approx. 3.6 % standard 4.2 % childless from age 23 · reductions depending on number of children Total (incl. care, childless) ≈ 22.0 % of gross Depending on long-term care variant Family co-insurance possible Spouse & children covered under statutory conditions Sickness pay (Krankengeld) from day 43 70 % of gross, max 78 weeks Compulsory insurance limit (JAEG) €77,400 / year \= €6,450 / month (as of 2026) Income-based No flat rate — contribution scales with gross salary Family covered free Spouse without income + children co-insured Mandatory under JAEG Gross < €77,400 / year → statutory insurance required 2026 contribution rates: 14.6 % general + 3.2 % DAK supplement = 17.8 %; split 50/50 between employer and employee (8.9 % each). Compulsory long-term care approx. 3.6 % standard, 4.2 % childless from age 23, reductions depending on number of children. Family co-insurance possible under statutory conditions. As of 2026. [DAK Employees — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/overview/) [Apply for membership](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/overview/) Sources: DAK-Gesundheit Beitragssatzordnung 2025, Minijob-Zentrale 2026, § 5 / § 6 / § 10 SGB V, § 8 SGB IV. The exact price is calculated in the online application. [DAK student tariff](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/overview/)[DAK (employees)](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit-angestellte/overview/) [Care Student (30+)](/en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/) ## Frequently Asked Questions Working student vs mini-job — which one changes German student health insurance? Werkstudent status (up to 20h/week during lectures) keeps you on DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month). A pure mini-job up to €538/month stays under the marginal-employment threshold and also leaves the student tariff intact — full-time work above 20h triggers regular GKV. Is a mini-job allowed on a German student residence permit? Yes — under § 16b AufenthG international students may work 140 full or 280 half days per year plus unlimited hours during semester break. A €538/month mini-job counts inside that quota and does not affect the DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) tariff. What happens to health insurance during a paid internship in Germany? A mandatory internship (Pflichtpraktikum) during studies is insurance-free — DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) continues. A voluntary paid internship over 20h/week triggers regular GKV via the employer (~17.8% of gross, split 50/50). Do Werkstudent contributions replace DAK-Studenten in Germany? No — GKV, unemployment and long-term care contributions are waived. Does a mini-job count towards the 140/280-day rule for international students in Germany? Yes — all employment — Werkstudent, mini-job or internship — counts against the 140 full / 280 half days per calendar year cap under § 16b AufenthG. Exceeding it can affect the student residence permit; DAK-Studenten (~€135.52/month) coverage itself is unchanged. Do I keep my student health insurance as a working student in Germany? Yes, as long as you work no more than 20 hours per week during lecture periods (the 'Werkstudentenprivileg'). Your GKV student rate (~€135/month) remains unchanged. During semester breaks, you can work more hours without losing this status — up to 27,50 €/Monatweeks per year. Does a minijob affect my health insurance as an international student? No, a minijob up to €556/month typically has no impact on your GKV student rate. However, if you exceed the income limit, the job becomes a 'Midijob' with mandatory social insurance contributions. Always check your total income across all jobs. What happens to my insurance during an internship in Germany? For mandatory internships (required by your study program), your student health insurance remains unaffected regardless of pay. Voluntary internships over 3 months with pay above €556/month may trigger social insurance obligations. For more details, see the [DAK student rate](/en/insurance-plans/dak-gesundheit/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 8, 2026.