---
title: "From €0.85/day – Travel vs. residence insurance Germany"
description: "Travel insurance vs. residence insurance in Germany: which proof embassies and the Ausländerbehörde accept, plus recognised lanes from €0.85/day."
lang: en
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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/)

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Language 

🇩🇪 Deutsch 🇺🇸 English 🇸🇦 العربية 

Main areas 

🌍 Foreigners in Germany 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — all foreigners in GermanyThe umbrella hub: every visa, every audience, recognised cover under § 5 AufenthG — start here. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Visa & SchengenFast insurance proof for embassy/foreigners' authority — short stays, Schengen visa, family visit. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Studies & Language SchoolAffordable long-term health insurance for international students, Studienkolleg, German courses, exchange students and PhD candidates. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Expats (long-term)Affordable long-term health insurance for expats, international skilled workers, freelancers and their families. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Employees (job start)Foreign employees, skilled workers with work visa, seasonal workers and people in the recognition procedure. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Retirees / parent reunificationAffordable long-term health insurance for foreign retirees, seniors and their partners, family visits. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)

More topics [Blocked account & visaAccepted for visa, Opportunity Card and university enrolment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[AustriaAffordable long-term health insurance for Austria. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Au-pair health insuranceAffordable health insurance for au-pairs in Germany, Austria & Switzerland — from €21/month. ](/en/au-pair-health-insurance-germany/)[Guides & FAQThe most common mistakes — and how to avoid them in 2 minutes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat does it really cost? Compare tariffs, prices and benefits. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

✈️ Visa & Schengen 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — visa & SchengenThe visa umbrella hub: Schengen, national D-visa, short stay and family reunification at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Schengen visa (up to 90 days)Fast health insurance proof for the Schengen visa — meet embassy requirements and avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/schengen-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Short stay without visaAffordable health insurance for tourist and visa-free stays — easy, flexible and quick to apply online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/short-stay-health-insurance-germany/)[Visitors & parent visits (3 months to 5 years)Cover for visitors and parents — for stays from 3 months to 5 years, affordable and online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/foreign-visitors-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Family reunificationFamily reunification: the right insurance proof for partner & children — so the application doesn't fail on missing documents. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/family-reunification-which-health-insurance-is-commonly-required-germany/)

Info & requirements [Insurance proof for the visaWhich insurance proofs embassies and immigration offices actually require. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/insurance-proof-visa-germany/)[Schengen insurance requirementsMinimum coverage, repatriation and validity area — so your proof doesn't fail on formalities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/requirements-schengen-health-insurance-germany/)[Documents & checklistWhich documents to prepare before the visa application — to avoid delays. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejectionThe most common mistakes with visa, proof and insurance — and what embassies pay particular attention to. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🎓 Studies & Language School 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — students & language schoolThe student umbrella hub: GKV, private student insurance, language course, Studienkolleg, exchange and PhD at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[International studentsAffordable health insurance for international students — with quick proof for enrolment, visa and study start. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Language school & German courseThe right insurance proof for language school & German course — so visa, embassy appointment and course start don't fail. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-language-course-before-study-differences-typical-mistakes-germany/)[StudienkollegAffordable health insurance for Studienkolleg — with quick proof for embassy, immigration office and course start, plus online application. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/preparatory-college-health-insurance-proof-registration-residence-germany/)[Exchange students & PhD candidatesSuitable health insurance for foreign exchange students & PhD candidates — for studies, exchange programmes, research and PhDs, with online application incl. insurance proof. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exchange-students-phd-students-health-insurance-germany/)

Info & decisions [Statutory or private student insurance?Statutory health insurance or private student insurance? Find out what really fits your status and study path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/statutory-or-private-student-health-insurance-germany/)[Student visa & proofWhich insurance proofs really count for visa, university enrolment and authorities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-proof-enrollment-university-germany/)[GKV exemptionExemption from statutory insurance: what to know before deciding — so it doesn't become a problem later. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exemption-from-statutory-health-insurance-students-key-points-germany/)[Blocked account & study startHow blocked account, university enrolment and health insurance interact — so your study start isn't delayed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🏠 Expats 

[Overview →](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — expats long-termAffordable & long-term: 6–60 months, family, freelancers, GKV vs private. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Long-term expats in Germany (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Germany — with accepted proof. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/long-term-health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Long-term expats in Austria (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Austria — accepted by MA 35. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Expats with family (partner & children)Affordable long-term cover for partner & children — no surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-with-family-joint-planning-partner-children-typical-questions-and-mistakes-germany/)[Freelancers & self-employed without an employerNo employer? Affordable long-term option — GKV or private, clarified fast. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-foreign-self-employed-germany/)[Transition without a job (job search / change / termination)Job change or termination: affordable bridge — long-term cover continues. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-without-employer-during-job-search-how-to-stay-insured-germany/)

Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits expats?Which health insurance fits as a long-term expat? Avoid mistakes — so registration works and you can see a doctor when needed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[GKV obligation or private solution? (quick check)Clear in 2 minutes: statutory obligation or private — so you don't commit to the wrong path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/private-vs-statutory-health-insurance-expats-which-factors-typically-matter-germany/)[Proofs for authorities (residence permit, registration, etc.)Get authority proofs right: avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/checklist-documents-immigration-office-expat-insurance-proof-deadlines-germany/)[Family & pregnancy: what to watch forAlready pregnant or planning? Common pitfalls in tariffs (waiting periods/benefits) — so there are no nasty surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/pregnancy-health-insurance-expats-proofs-costs-doctor-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

Other groups 

💼 Employees 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — employees & job startThe employee umbrella hub: job start, Blue Card, job change, GKV obligation and employer proof. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Job start in GermanySo your job start works: the right health insurance + proof, fast and easy. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/)[Blue Card & skilled workersBlue Card & skilled workers: get insured properly, avoid mistakes — proof for employer and registration. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/bluecard-skilled-workers-health-insurance-proof-employer-registration-germany/)[Job change / new positionJob change made easy: stay insured, avoid mistakes, done quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/job-change-health-insurance-what-happens-with-insurance-and-prove-germany/)[Part-time, mini-job & probationPart-time/mini-job/probation: find the right health insurance — without a wrong decision. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/mini-job-midi-job-full-time-health-insurance-differences-germany/)

Info & decisions [GKV registration step by stepGKV in 3 steps: error-free, step by step — so you finish quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-registration-step-by-step-employees-germany/)[What certificate does the employer need?Employer proof: which certificate is really required — explained quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/employer-asks-insurance-proof-what-must-one-submit-germany/)[GKV obligation: who must, who may choose?Who must join statutory insurance — and who may choose? Without mistakes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-requirement-who-must-who-may-foreigners-germany/)[Documents & checklist for the job startJob start checklist: documents, deadlines, next steps — so you don't forget anything. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🧓 Retirees 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — retirees & parentsThe retiree umbrella hub: parent reunification, seniors 60+, short visits and pre-existing conditions at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Parent reunification / bringing parents to Germany permanentlyBringing parents to Germany permanently: find the right health insurance — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-health-insurance-germany/)[Foreign retirees/parents 60+ in Germany (6 months to 5 years)For parents 60+: find the right long-term cover — so doctor, hospital and authority proofs don't become a problem. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/long-term-health-insurance-seniors-germany/)[Short stay / visiting children (up to 90 days)For parent visits up to 90 days: affordable health insurance for doctor & emergency — incl. proof, quick to apply online. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/short-visit-seniors-health-insurance-which-coverage-commonly-required-germany/)[Retirees with pre-existing conditions & medication (special cases)Pre-existing conditions or medication? We show what's possible — clearly explained, no false promises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/)

Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits retirees? (quick overview)Find the right solution quickly for age, stay and proof — before you choose wrong. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[Statutory possible for retirees? Or rather private? (quick check)Statutory or private as a retiree? Clear in 2 minutes — so you don't decide wrongly. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/statutory-or-private-health-fund-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Proof for foreigners' authority & residence permit (checklist)Foreigners' authority: submit the proof correctly — avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/immigration-office-insurance-proof-which-details-should-appear-germany/)[Costs in old age: contributions, deductibles, typical pitfallsWhat does it really cost in old age? Contributions, deductibles and typical cost traps — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/costs-in-age-premiums-deductible-cost-traps-germany/)[Acceptance, exclusions & waiting periods (age/pre-existing)Age/pre-existing conditions: what's possible, what's excluded, what waiting periods apply — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🏦 Blocked Account 

[Overview →](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — blocked accountThe blocked account umbrella hub: student visa, application, timing and Opportunity Card at a glance. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Blocked account for the student visa (national visa D)Combine blocked account + health insurance correctly — so the visa appointment doesn't fail. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-student-visa-monthly-rate-logic-and-health-insurance-proof-germany/)[Blocked account + visa applicationWhich proofs belong together (blocked account, KV, documents) — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-and-health-insurance-for-visa-application-germany/)[Documents & checklist (blocked account)Which documents you really need — so nothing gets delayed. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-documents-checklist-providers-mistakes-the-delay-germany/)[Timing: when to open, when to take out insurance?Order & timing: blocked account + KV in time before the visa appointment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-timing-opening-and-health-insurance-taking-out-before-visa-appointment-germany/)[Opportunity Card / stay without studiesWhen the blocked account is used for other purposes: what to watch for. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/opportunity-card-residence-without-study-blocked-account-health-insurance-proofs-germany/)

Info & decisions [Blocked account explained in 2 minutesWhat it is, what it's needed for, common misunderstandings. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Health insurance as proof for the visa (checklist)Which information must be on the proof — so the embassy/authority accepts it. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejection (queries / proof errors)Top mistakes + quick fix — so you don't have to resubmit. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/)[Which insurance fits at study start?How blocked account, university enrolment & health insurance interact. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/)[Blocked Account productIf you want to open the account directly: overview + application. ](/en/insurance-plans/blocked-account/overview/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

📚 Guides 

[Overview →](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — guides & FAQThe guides umbrella hub: all topics, FAQs and checklists on health insurance in Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Visa & residenceAvoid common mistakes before applying. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/)[StudentsWhich insurance fits enrolment and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/)[FAQShort answers to the most common questions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat to look out for in affordable tariffs. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/)

More topics [ExpatsWhat matters during a longer stay. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[EmployeesHow employees avoid expensive wrong decisions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/)[Language course / German courseWhich insurance is needed for language course and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-language-course-german-course-germany/)[RetireesWhat retirees should watch for when moving to Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[StudienkollegSuitable cover for the time at Studienkolleg. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-preparatory-college-germany/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

[All tariffs](/en/product-overview-germany/)[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/)

[Care Visa Protect — Schengen-compliant bilingual PDF from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/)

1.  [Home](/en/)
2.  [Guide to Health Insurance in Germany](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)
3.  [Visa & Residence Germany](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/)
4.  Travel vs. residence insurance (Germany) 

Travel insurance and residence insurance are not interchangeable in Germany. Embassies accept travel insurance for Schengen — but the Ausländerbehörde refuses it for a residence permit. Match the product to the visa type. 

# Travel insurance vs. residence insurance: which one German authorities accept

Practical guide for foreigners: when a travel health insurance (Reisekrankenversicherung) is enough for a Schengen visa, and when the German embassy or Ausländerbehörde requires a residence/incoming insurance (Aufenthaltsversicherung) instead.

Three options — Schengen travel insurance ≤ 92 days, D-visa bridge ≤ 2 years, long-stay residence insurance up to 5 years — match the three German visa categories the authorities check at intake.

A bilingual PDF (German + English) from a recognised option is delivered by email within minutes — re-issuable at no extra cost as long as the policy has not started yet.

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

![Travel insurance vs. residence insurance — bilingual certificates side by side: Schengen visa option (Care Visa Protect) and residence permit option (Care Expatriate) accepted by the Ausländerbehörde](/assets/visum-fuer-deutschland-schengen-BlAIXY3l.jpg)

-   [Schengen travel option: Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days)](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) (≤ 92 days · embassy accepted) 
-   [D-visa bridge product: Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) (national D-visa · ≤ 2 years) 
-   [Long-stay residence option: Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) (Aufenthaltstitel · up to 5 years) 

Schengen

travel route

D-visa

bridge route

Long-stay

residence route

Three rules for picking the right insurance category  — what authorities actually check:

1.  1 **Match the visa type to the option** — Schengen ≤ 92 days = travel insurance; D-visa or Aufenthaltstitel = residence/incoming insurance. 
2.  2 **The certificate must cover the whole period:** [Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days)](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) ships a bilingual PDF with all required fields by default — by email within minutes. 
3.  3 **Outpatient + inpatient + repatriation in plain text:** the consulate or Ausländerbehörde must see the benefit list on the certificate, not just an AVB reference. 

Not sure which option fits your visa type?  [30-second tariff finder →](/en/tariffinder-germany/)

Inside:  why the same word 'health insurance' means three completely different products to a German embassy clerk  ·  how a Schengen travel policy can fail at the Ausländerbehörde even when the cover amount is well above the minimum  ·  the one wording line that separates a residence-insurance certificate from a travel-insurance certificate 

Sources:  EU Regulation 810/2009 (Art. 15) · Auswärtiges Amt · BAMF · HanseMerkur Care Visa Protect AVB · HanseMerkur Care Economy AVB · HanseMerkur Care Expatriate AVB · Care Concept AG 

Trusted Providers

Care Concept · HanseMerkur · DAK where applicable

Visa Proof

Proof of insurance for embassy or consulate documents

Fast Online Process

Receive the available confirmation after successful application

![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **August 26, 2026**  SourcesEU Regulation 810/2009 (Art. 15) · § 5 AufenthG · Auswärtiges Amt · BAMF · HanseMerkur Care Visa Protect AVB · HanseMerkur Care Economy AVB · HanseMerkur Care Expatriate AVB · Care Concept AG 

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

Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009

## Travel vs. residence insurance? Match the option to your visa with Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) (Schengen) or Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) (D-visa bridge).

[Care Visa Protect (Schengen travel insurance) from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/)[Care Economy (D-visa bridge · ≤ 2 years) 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

-   Travel insurance (Reisekrankenversicherung) and residence insurance (Aufenthaltsversicherung / incoming insurance) are not interchangeable — embassies and the Ausländerbehörde accept different products for different visa types. The product label is not the criterion; cover amount, period and scope are. 
-   Recognised products that pass the field-by-field check by default: Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) for Schengen (≤ 92 days), Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) for the D-visa bridge (≤ 2 years), Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years) for long-stay residence permits (up to 5 years). 
-   Three rules: match the visa type to the product, make sure the certificate covers the entire requested period, and bring a bilingual PDF that lists outpatient + inpatient + medical repatriation in plain text — not just an AVB reference. 

Key facts at a glance Reviewed August 26, 2026

-   **Schengen visa: travel insurance is the standard option.** EU Reg. 810/2009 Art. 15 sets the minimum: €30,000 medical cover, valid in all Schengen states, medical repatriation in plain text on the certificate. Travel insurance is the option embassies accept by default for visits up to 92 days. (Source: EU Regulation 810/2009 Art. 15 · Auswärtiges Amt).
-   **D-visa or residence permit: residence/incoming insurance is the standard option.** The Ausländerbehörde checks period, scope and benefit list against the requested residence window. A Schengen travel policy is refused because the period is too short and the option does not match a multi-year permit. (Source: § 5 AufenthG · BAMF · Auswärtiges Amt).
-   **Bilingual PDF re-issued by email:** Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days), Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) and Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years) ship a single bilingual certificate (German + English) by email within minutes — re-issuable before the start at no extra cost. Full age brackets are shown in the official tables below. (Source: HanseMerkur AVB · Care Concept AG).

## 7-step checklist — pick the option the German authority accepts

**Quick answer:** "Do I need a travel insurance or a residence insurance for my German visa?" — These seven steps cover the standard flow embassies and the Ausländerbehörde expect at intake.

-   **Step 1.** Identify the visa type — Schengen visa (≤ 90 days), national D-visa (multi-month bridge), or residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) for a long stay 
-   **Step 2.** Read the embassy or Ausländerbehörde requirements — the product label is not the criterion; cover amount, period, scope and benefit list are 
-   **Step 3.** Pick the option that fits the visa: travel insurance for Schengen, residence/incoming insurance for D-visa or Aufenthaltstitel — never use a Schengen travel policy for a multi-year permit 
-   **Step 4.** Check the bilingual certificate covers the entire requested period — outpatient, inpatient and medical repatriation must appear in plain text 
-   **Step 5.** Bring the printed bilingual PDF to the appointment — the certificate must list name, period, cover amount and territorial scope on a single page 
-   **Step 6.** If the visa type changes after issue (e.g. Schengen → D-visa), re-issue from the matching option — Care Visa Protect refunds unused days on no-show, Care Economy bridges the new period 
-   **Step 7.** Keep the rebooking confirmation and the new certificate together — it speeds up the next intake at the embassy or the Ausländerbehörde 

## Three options — Schengen travel, D-visa bridge, long-stay residence

Option 1 / 3

### Option 1 — Schengen visa (≤ 92 days)

Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days); full age and duration rates are shown in the official table below. EU Reg. 810/2009 compliant, bilingual PDF, day-precise start date, no-show refund — the standard travel insurance product embassies accept for Schengen.

**Need:** Care Visa Protect · travel insurance · ≤ 92 days

[Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) →](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/)

Option 2 / 3

### Option 2 — D-visa bridge (multi-month residence)

Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years); exact daily rates depend on duration, entry age and deductible — shown in the official table below. Incoming insurance up to 2 years, bilingual PDF, outpatient + inpatient + repatriation — bridges between visa stamp and statutory cover (GKV) or a long-stay private product.

**Need:** Care Economy · incoming insurance · ≤ 2 years

[Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years) →](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/)

Option 3 / 3

### Option 3 — Aufenthaltstitel (long stay, up to 5 years)

Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years); exact age and tier prices are shown in the official table below. Worldwide scope including the home country, premium fixed at entry age, up to 5 years per contract — the standard residence-insurance product the Ausländerbehörde accepts for multi-year permits without GKV access.

**Need:** Care Expatriate · residence insurance · up to 5 years

[Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years) →](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)

## Avoid the mistakes that can delay your application

### Schengen proof missing?

For short Schengen stays, choose insurance that meets the €30,000 minimum-coverage requirement.

### Short stay or longer stay?

Care Visa Protect fits many 1–92 day Schengen visits; Care Economy may fit longer or more flexible stays.

### Wrong insurance can cost time

Before your embassy appointment, check that the proof matches your visa type, dates and destination.

### Multiple entries planned?

If you travel more than once, check the multiple-entry option and the annual day limit before applying.

## Three insurance categories — what each visa type requires, and which option fits

### Travel insurance — short-stay Schengen visa (≤ 92 days)

**Pattern:** Schengen visa for tourism, family visit, business, conference, language course up to 92 days.

**Risk:** Using a travel policy for a residence permit is refused — the period and scope do not match a multi-year stay.

**Fix option:** Care Visa Protect — EU Reg. 810/2009 compliant, bilingual PDF, day-precise start date, no-show refund.

### Residence/incoming insurance — D-visa bridge (multi-month)

**Pattern:** National D-visa for job seeker (Chancenkarte), family reunification, language school, longer visit beyond 90 days.

**Risk:** A Schengen travel policy expires too early — embassies refuse the file because the period does not cover the whole D-visa window.

**Fix option:** Care Economy — incoming insurance up to 2 years, bilingual PDF, outpatient + inpatient + repatriation.

### Long-stay residence insurance — Aufenthaltstitel (up to 5 years)

**Pattern:** Residence permit for work, freelance, self-employed, retiree without GKV access — multi-year stay.

**Risk:** Travel and short-period products are refused by the Ausländerbehörde for residence permits — the product must match the duration.

**Fix option:** Care Expatriate — worldwide scope including the home country, premium fixed at entry age, up to 5 years per contract.

## Wrong product chosen? Embassy refuses the file — next slot can be weeks away

## 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.

🇪🇺

€30,000 minimum

Schengen proof must be clear

Your certificate should clearly show the required coverage amount, Schengen validity, travel dates and repatriation benefits.

-   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.

## Embassy or Ausländerbehörde appointment soon? Pick the matching option today

## Why act before the embassy appointment

Schengen visa insurance is not just a formality. Your proof should clearly show the required coverage, dates, validity area and repatriation benefits.

📅 

Appointments can be limited

If the proof is missing or unsuitable, preparing corrected documents can cost valuable time.

⚡ 

PDF certificate after application

Care Visa Protect provides the certificate by email after successful online application.

🛡️ 

€30,000 minimum coverage

Schengen insurance should show at least €30,000 coverage plus medical repatriation for the Schengen Area.

💶 

From €0.85/day

Care Visa Protect starts from €0.85/day, with a minimum premium of €8.50 per trip.

## From visa type to bilingual certificate — in 3 steps

10 minutes online. Option (Schengen travel / D-visa bridge / long-stay residence) pre-filled. Bilingual PDF certificate (German + English) with all required fields by email within minutes — re-issuable at no extra cost while the policy has not started yet.

## Schengen-ready in 3 steps

Proof of insurance for Schengen visa applications, including the €30,000 minimum-coverage requirement.

1.  1 🎯 
    
    Pick the right plan
    
    Care Visa Protect for short Schengen stays · Care Economy for the Opportunity Card or longer visitor stays.
    
2.  2 📝 
    
    Apply online
    
    Enter passport, travel dates and destination. For Care Visa Protect, purchase before entry when required.
    
3.  3 ✅ 
    
    Submit your proof
    
    Receive the PDF certificate after successful online application and submit it with your visa or authority documents.
    

## What applicants say about Care Visa Protect for matching the right insurance category to their German visa

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/) 

## Recognised options — Schengen travel, D-visa bridge, long-stay residence

🇪🇺 Schengen travel · ≤ 92 days

### Care Visa Protect 

from only €0.85 / day (1–92 days possible)

For Schengen visas, tourists, family visits & business travel

-   Proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities quickly available (PDF) 
-   Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements 
-   Affordable coverage from €0.85/day (minimum premium applies) 
-   Doctor, hospital, prescription medication & dental emergency coverage 
-   For Germany, Austria, the EU/Schengen Area, Liechtenstein or Switzerland 
-   Ideal for short stays, family visits, tourists & business travelers 
-   Multiple-visa option: several trips up to a total of 92 days/year 
-   Must be purchased before entry 
-   Age-based rates: from €0.85/day up to age 64 · from €2.60/day for ages 65–74 
-   Coverage term: 1–92 days · entry age 0–74 

Why Care Visa Protect?

For foreign visitors with a Schengen visa who need fast, affordable proof of insurance for an embassy, visa office or immigration authority — suitable for tourists, family visits and short business trips.

Why a 92-day coverage term?

Ideal for typical short stays and Schengen trips: enough coverage for a visit, vacation or business trip — without buying long-term insurance.

-   🏛️ HanseMerkur Travel Insurance AG, Hamburg
-   📄 Instant proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities (PDF)
-   🔒 Doctor, clinic, dental emergency & repatriation coverage
-   🏷️ From €0.85 / day · coverage up to 92 days

[Care Visa Protect – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/apply/)

→ Complete the application, receive your instant PDF, submit your proof

📘 D-visa bridge · ≤ 2 years

### 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

🌐 Long-stay residence · up to 5 years

### Care Expatriate 

from only €58.00 / month (coverage up to 5 years)

For foreign nationals with longer stays: expats, self-employed professionals, freelancers, employees on assignment without German statutory insurance, retirees & seniors up to age 74

-   Proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities quickly available (PDF) 
-   Coverage up to 5 years – less renewal stress 
-   Doctor, hospital, prescription medication & dental treatment coverage 
-   For longer stays in Germany, Austria, the EU/Schengen Area, Liechtenstein or Switzerland 
-   Suitable for expats, self-employed professionals, freelancers, employees on assignment without German statutory insurance, retirees & seniors 
-   More planning security for residence permits, projects or jobs 
-   24/7 assistance + digital insurance card 
-   Age-based rates: from €58/month ages 13–40 · from €68 ages 41–60 · from €246 ages 61–74 
-   Coverage term: 3 months to 5 years · entry age 0–74 
-   Reputable insurance carrier 

Why Care Expatriate?

For foreign nationals with longer stays who need solid health insurance and proof of coverage for authorities — suitable for expats, freelancers, self-employed professionals, employees on assignment without German statutory insurance, retirees & seniors up to age 74.

Why a 5-year coverage term?

More planning security: less renewal stress and a lower risk of a coverage gap if your stay lasts longer.

-   🏛️ HanseMerkur Insurance Group Hamburg – Advigon Insurance AG
-   📄 Instant proof of insurance for visas & immigration authorities (PDF)
-   🔒 Doctor, clinic, dental treatment & repatriation coverage
-   🏷️ From €58 / month · coverage up to 5 years

[Care Expatriate – Quick Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/plan-details/) [Apply online now](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/apply/)

→ Complete the application, receive your instant PDF, submit your proof

For the full overview of visa & residence topics see the [visa & residence hub](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/).

## Full price tables — Care Visa Protect, Care Economy, Care Expatriate

**Quick answer:** Summary CTAs show registry base prices only. Exact age, duration and deductible rates are shown in the official tables below.

### Schengen travel insurance (≤ 92 days) — Care Visa Protect

Care Visa Protect

Daily premium

Multiple Visa  
(annual contract) 

up to age 64

€0.85/day

€110/year

65 – 74 years

€2.60/day

€215/year

Prices per person. Minimum premium €8.50 per trip. Maximum benefit €50,000 (well above the Schengen minimum of €30,000). Deductible €0. Must be purchased before travel. As of 2026.

[Care Visa Protect — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/)

### National D-visa bridge — Care Economy (1 day–2 years)

Care Economy  
Duration 

Bestseller up to 64 

up to 64 

Bestseller 65+ 

65+ 

no deductible

with deductible

no deductible

with deductible

up to 90 days

€1.18/day

€1.00/day

€3.48/day

€2.95/day

91–180 days

€1.59/day

€1.35/day

€4.37/day

€3.70/day

181–365 days

€2.30/day

€1.95/day

€5.84/day

€4.95/day

366–730 days

€2.83/day

€2.40/day

€9.32/day

€7.90/day

All prices per day/person in euros. Minimum premium €10 per person and term. Deductible is the share you pay yourself. Entry age 0–74. As of 2026.

[Care Economy — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/)

### Long-stay residence insurance — Care Expatriate (up to 5 years)

Care Expatriate worldwide without USA, Canada and Mexico 

Basic 

Bestseller Comfort 

Premium 

Deductible / yr

150,–

Deductible / yr

150,–

Deductible / yr

500,–

Deductible / yr

0,–

Deductible / yr

500,–

Deductible / yr

1.000,–

Entry age: 0–12 (€ / month) 

64,–

104,–

81,–

191,–

149,–

117,–

Entry age: 13–40 (€ / month) 

58,–

84,–

63,–

181,–

141,–

109,–

Entry age: 41–60 (€ / month) 

68,–

103,–

77,–

256,–

201,–

156,–

Entry age: 61–74 (€ / month) 

246,–

322,–

248,–

432,–

336,–

263,–

All prices per month/person in euros. Deductible applies per insurance year. As of 2026.

[Care Expatriate — Overview](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) [Apply now](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)

## FAQ — Travel insurance vs. residence insurance for German visas

## Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between travel insurance and residence insurance in Germany? 

Travel health insurance (Reisekrankenversicherung) covers short stays — typical for Schengen visas up to ~90 days. Residence insurance, also called incoming insurance, covers longer stays up to 2–5 years. The criterion is not the product name but whether the cover amount, period and scope match what the embassy or Ausländerbehörde requires. [Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days)](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) for Schengen, [Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (up to 2 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) for the D-visa bridge.

Do German embassies accept any travel insurance for a Schengen visa? 

810/2009: at least €30,000 medical cover, valid in all Schengen states, with medical repatriation in plain text on the certificate. Not every travel policy is accepted. For a Schengen visa the policy must comply with EU Reg. [Care Visa Protect from €0.85/day (up to 92 days)](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/) ships a bilingual PDF that ticks every box by default.

Is a travel insurance enough for a German residence permit? 

[Care Expatriate from €58/month (up to 5 years)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) covers up to 5 years per contract on a single bilingual certificate. For a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) the Ausländerbehörde typically requires more than a Schengen travel policy — outpatient, inpatient and repatriation across the entire residence period. Not sure which option fits your visa type? Try the [30-second tariff finder](/en/tariffinder-germany/).

Editorial guidance only. Embassy and immigration-office requirements can vary by consulate, city and individual file; final acceptance always rests with the responsible authority.

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

Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009

## Pick the matching option today and walk in with a bilingual PDF that covers the full requested period.

[Care Visa Protect (Schengen travel insurance) from €0.85/day (up to 92 days) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-visa-protect/overview/)[Care Economy (D-visa bridge · ≤ 2 years) 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 

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All rights reserved. All information without guarantee, errors excepted.

Note: The content of this site is for general information and orientation purposes only. It does not constitute legal or insurance advice. For binding information, please contact the responsible Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' authority) or a lawyer. Last updated: August 26, 2026.