--- title: "From €246/mo · Retiree Health Insurance Germany: Cost Guide" description: "What retiree health cover costs in Germany at each age band — €246/month from 61–74, €68 from 41–60 — plus deductibles, pre-existing conditions and country notes." 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": 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by age band, deductibles and pre-existing conditions", "description": "What retiree health cover costs in Germany at each age band — €246/month from 61–74, €68 from 41–60 — plus deductibles, pre-existing conditions and country notes.", "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": "2026-09-05", "dateModified": "2026-09-09", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": 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"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": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "jobTitle": "Insurance specialist — health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany", "knowsAbout": [ "Health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany", "Care Expatriate", "Care Economy", "KVdR 9/10 rule (§ 5 SGB V)", "EU Form S1 (EU Regulation 883/2004)", "Residence permit insurance proof (§ 5 AufenthG)" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "InsuranceAgency", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de" }, "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/", "sameAs": [ "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/", "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/ueber-uns/" ] }, { "@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": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Foreign Retirees in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Health Insurance for Foreign Retirees in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.deundefined" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "HowTo", "name": "How to get recognised health insurance for a foreign retiree moving to Germany", "description": "Three-step process to obtain a residence-permit-ready health insurance certificate for the German Ausländerbehörde.", "inLanguage": "en", "step": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 1, "name": "Pick the right entry-age band", "text": "Choose Care Expatriate for long stays (1–60 months, entry ages 0–74) or Care Economy for short family visits up to 2 years. Premium depends on the entry-age band and stays fixed for the contract." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 2, "name": "Enter retiree details and pay online", "text": "Provide name, date of birth and stay dates. No medical exam is required for long-stay incoming cover; pre-existing conditions are excluded per AVB." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 3, "name": "Present the bilingual PDF at the embassy or Ausländerbehörde", "text": "The certificate arrives by email, typically within minutes, in the wording the consulate and Ausländerbehörde expect under § 5 AufenthG." } ], "totalTime": "PT10M", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "[data-howto='step']", "[data-aeo='answer']", "h1" ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "DefinedTermSet", "name": "Foreign-retiree health insurance glossary", "inLanguage": "en", "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Krankenversicherung für Ausländer", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de" }, "hasDefinedTerm": [ { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "KVdR 9/10 rule", "description": "Statutory pensioner health insurance (Krankenversicherung der Rentner) under § 5 (1) No. 11 SGB V requires the applicant to have been a member of the statutory GKV for 9 out of the last 10 years of their working life — a condition most foreign retirees cannot meet.", "inDefinedTermSet": "Foreign-retiree health insurance glossary" }, { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Form S1", "description": "EU portable document under Regulation (EC) 883/2004 that allows pensioners drawing a pension from one EU/EEA state to register for statutory healthcare in another member state at the cost of the paying state.", "sameAs": "https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32004R0883", "inDefinedTermSet": "Foreign-retiree health insurance glossary" }, { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "§ 5 AufenthG insurance proof", "description": "German Residence Act requirement that any residence permit (including senior reunification) is normally granted only if the applicant proves sufficient health insurance cover for the entire stay.", "inDefinedTermSet": "Foreign-retiree health insurance glossary" }, { "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Elternnachzug (parent reunification visa)", "description": "German family-reunification route under § 36 AufenthG for parents and parents-in-law joining adult children — frequently used by foreign retirees moving to Germany. Requires recognised long-term health insurance for the full stay.", "inDefinedTermSet": "Foreign-retiree health insurance glossary" } ] }, { "@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": "Foreign Retirees in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Health Insurance for Foreign Retirees in Germany", "item": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "HowTo", "name": "Family visit or longer stay in 3 steps", "description": "Options for short visits or longer family stays up to entry age 74.", "inLanguage": "en", "step": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 1, "name": "Choose your plan", "text": "Care Economy for visits up to 2 years · Care Expatriate for longer stays or family-reunification scenarios up to 5 years." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 2, "name": "Complete the application", "text": "Enter passport, travel/stay and visa or residence details online. Additional information may be required depending on the plan." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 3, "name": "Receive your proof", "text": "Receive insurance proof after successful application and submit it with your visa or residence documents." } ], "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": "Can foreign retirees join statutory GKV in Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Usually not. The KVdR 9/10 rule under § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V normally requires that the pensioner spent 90% of the second half of their working life insured in German statutory insurance. Most foreign retirees do not meet this rule, so the practical long-stay route is private long-term cover such as Care Expatriate from €68/month (ages 41–60) or €246/month (61–74)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the Form S1 and who can use it?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Form S1 is the portable EU/EEA/Swiss document that lets pensioners receiving a state pension from one EU country register their statutory cover in another. If you receive an EU pension and move to Germany, your home statutory fund typically pays for treatment in the German statutory system. Non-EU pensioners cannot use S1." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees aged 65 or 70?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate Basic with €150 deductible costs from €246/month for ages 61–74. Comfort tier from €248/month, Premium with zero deductible from €432/month — all three tiers cover up to 5 years. The premium is locked at the entry-age band for the full contract length and does not increase annually." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is travel or visitor insurance enough for retirees moving to Germany?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Short visits up to 2 years can use Care Economy as a bridge. Usually not for a long-term move. Travel and visitor insurance (including Schengen-style policies and EHIC) is designed for short stays. For a national D-visa or Aufenthaltserlaubnis, German missions and the Ausländerbehörde typically require ongoing private cover comparable to SGB V — for example Care Expatriate." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are pre-existing conditions covered?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Coverage of pre-existing conditions depends on tariff terms and individual medical review. We do not give medical advice and cannot promise acceptance for any specific condition. For retirees with diabetes, heart conditions, cancer history or other chronic illness, we recommend checking insurance options early so there is time for underwriting questions or alternative tariff choices." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What insurance proof does the Ausländerbehörde require for the residence permit?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Authorities typically expect proof of valid health insurance for the entire planned stay, comparable to SGB V — full name and date of birth, insurer and policy number, start and end date, Germany validity, outpatient and inpatient benefits, hospital and emergency cover, repatriation where applicable, deductible, and a statement that the policy is suitable for a long-term stay. The exact checklist varies by Ausländerbehörde; final acceptance is at their discretion." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long can a Care Expatriate contract run?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate contracts can run for up to 5 years (60 months) per contract. The monthly premium is fixed at the entry-age band on contract start, so the total cost is predictable from day one." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can Americans or US citizens retire in Germany and get health insurance?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — US citizens, Canadians, Australians, Brits and other non-EU pensioners can retire in Germany on a residence permit, but they cannot normally join statutory GKV (KVdR 9/10 rule). The standard route is private long-stay incoming cover — Care Expatriate from €68/month (entry age 41–60) or €246/month (61–74) — issued by HanseMerkur, German + English certificate, accepted in practice at the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG (final acceptance at the authority's discretion)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does private health insurance for retirees in Germany cost per month?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Short-visit Care Economy starts at €30 per 30 days (ages up to 64) and from about €88.50 per 30 days (ages 65 and over). Indicative monthly costs for retire-in-Germany private cover: Care Expatriate Basic from €68/month (ages 41–60) and from €246/month (ages 61–74); Comfort tier from €248/month; Premium with zero deductible from €432/month for the senior band. Prices are locked at entry-age band for the full contract length." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do EU pensioners with Form S1 still need Care Expatriate?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Usually no. EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners drawing a state pension can normally register with a German statutory fund using Form S1 (EU Reg. 883/2004) — the home statutory fund pays for German treatment. Care Expatriate is the standard route only when Form S1 is not available (non-EU retirement, private-pension-only retirees, or before the S1 paperwork lands). Always confirm S1 status with the Deutsche Rentenversicherung and the home fund before the embassy appointment." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I bring my parents to Germany with family reunification?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — § 36 AufenthG (Elternnachzug / parent reunification) requires each parent to have their own valid health insurance for the residence permit. Care Expatriate from €246/month (ages 61–74, Basic tier, SB €150) is the standard private Incoming route because most foreign parents cannot enter GKV via the KVdR 9/10 rule (§ 5 SGB V). The PDF certificate is typically accepted by the German mission and the Ausländerbehörde as BAMF-recognised proof for the reunification application." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can foreign retirees join statutory GKV in Germany?", "text": "Can foreign retirees join statutory GKV in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Usually not. The KVdR 9/10 rule under § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V normally requires that the pensioner spent 90% of the second half of their working life insured in German statutory insurance. Most foreign retirees do not meet this rule, so the practical long-stay route is private long-term cover such as Care Expatriate from €68/month (ages 41–60) or €246/month (61–74).", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the Form S1 and who can use it?", "text": "What is the Form S1 and who can use it?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Form S1 is the portable EU/EEA/Swiss document that lets pensioners receiving a state pension from one EU country register their statutory cover in another. If you receive an EU pension and move to Germany, your home statutory fund typically pays for treatment in the German statutory system. Non-EU pensioners cannot use S1.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees aged 65 or 70?", "text": "How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees aged 65 or 70?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate Basic with €150 deductible costs from €246/month for ages 61–74. Comfort tier from €248/month, Premium with zero deductible from €432/month — all three tiers cover up to 5 years. The premium is locked at the entry-age band for the full contract length and does not increase annually.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is travel or visitor insurance enough for retirees moving to Germany?", "text": "Is travel or visitor insurance enough for retirees moving to Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Short visits up to 2 years can use Care Economy as a bridge. Usually not for a long-term move. Travel and visitor insurance (including Schengen-style policies and EHIC) is designed for short stays. For a national D-visa or Aufenthaltserlaubnis, German missions and the Ausländerbehörde typically require ongoing private cover comparable to SGB V — for example Care Expatriate.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are pre-existing conditions covered?", "text": "Are pre-existing conditions covered?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Coverage of pre-existing conditions depends on tariff terms and individual medical review. We do not give medical advice and cannot promise acceptance for any specific condition. For retirees with diabetes, heart conditions, cancer history or other chronic illness, we recommend checking insurance options early so there is time for underwriting questions or alternative tariff choices.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What insurance proof does the Ausländerbehörde require for the residence permit?", "text": "What insurance proof does the Ausländerbehörde require for the residence permit?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Authorities typically expect proof of valid health insurance for the entire planned stay, comparable to SGB V — full name and date of birth, insurer and policy number, start and end date, Germany validity, outpatient and inpatient benefits, hospital and emergency cover, repatriation where applicable, deductible, and a statement that the policy is suitable for a long-term stay. The exact checklist varies by Ausländerbehörde; final acceptance is at their discretion.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long can a Care Expatriate contract run?", "text": "How long can a Care Expatriate contract run?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate contracts can run for up to 5 years (60 months) per contract. The monthly premium is fixed at the entry-age band on contract start, so the total cost is predictable from day one.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can Americans or US citizens retire in Germany and get health insurance?", "text": "Can Americans or US citizens retire in Germany and get health insurance?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — US citizens, Canadians, Australians, Brits and other non-EU pensioners can retire in Germany on a residence permit, but they cannot normally join statutory GKV (KVdR 9/10 rule). The standard route is private long-stay incoming cover — Care Expatriate from €68/month (entry age 41–60) or €246/month (61–74) — issued by HanseMerkur, German + English certificate, accepted in practice at the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG (final acceptance at the authority's discretion).", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does private health insurance for retirees in Germany cost per month?", "text": "How much does private health insurance for retirees in Germany cost per month?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Short-visit Care Economy starts at €30 per 30 days (ages up to 64) and from about €88.50 per 30 days (ages 65 and over). Indicative monthly costs for retire-in-Germany private cover: Care Expatriate Basic from €68/month (ages 41–60) and from €246/month (ages 61–74); Comfort tier from €248/month; Premium with zero deductible from €432/month for the senior band. Prices are locked at entry-age band for the full contract length.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do EU pensioners with Form S1 still need Care Expatriate?", "text": "Do EU pensioners with Form S1 still need Care Expatriate?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Usually no. EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners drawing a state pension can normally register with a German statutory fund using Form S1 (EU Reg. 883/2004) — the home statutory fund pays for German treatment. Care Expatriate is the standard route only when Form S1 is not available (non-EU retirement, private-pension-only retirees, or before the S1 paperwork lands). Always confirm S1 status with the Deutsche Rentenversicherung and the home fund before the embassy appointment.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I bring my parents to Germany with family reunification?", "text": "Can I bring my parents to Germany with family reunification?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes — § 36 AufenthG (Elternnachzug / parent reunification) requires each parent to have their own valid health insurance for the residence permit. Care Expatriate from €246/month (ages 61–74, Basic tier, SB €150) is the standard private Incoming route because most foreign parents cannot enter GKV via the KVdR 9/10 rule (§ 5 SGB V). The PDF certificate is typically accepted by the German mission and the Ausländerbehörde as BAMF-recognised proof for the reunification application.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-09", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can foreign retirees join statutory GKV in Germany?", "text": "Can foreign retirees join statutory GKV in Germany?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Usually not. The KVdR 9/10 rule under § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V normally requires that the pensioner spent 90% of the second half of their working life insured in German statutory insurance. Most foreign retirees do not meet this rule, so the practical long-stay route is private long-term cover such as Care Expatriate from €68/month (ages 41–60) or €246/month (61–74).", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the Form S1 and who can use it?", "text": "What is the Form S1 and who can use it?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Form S1 is the portable EU/EEA/Swiss document that lets pensioners receiving a state pension from one EU country register their statutory cover in another. If you receive an EU pension and move to Germany, your home statutory fund typically pays for treatment in the German statutory system. Non-EU pensioners cannot use S1.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees aged 65 or 70?", "text": "How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees aged 65 or 70?", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0, "answerCount": 1, "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Care Expatriate Basic with €150 deductible costs from €246/month for ages 61–74. Comfort tier from €248/month, Premium with zero deductible from €432/month — all three tiers cover up to 5 years. The premium is locked at the entry-age band for the full contract length and does not increase annually.", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/health-insurance-for-foreign-retirees-in-germany/", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Steffan Grund", "url": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/impressum/" }, "datePublished": "2026-09-05", "upvoteCount": 0 } } } ] --- EN [+49 228 97735-44](tel:+4922897735-44)· German & English spoken [Health Insurance for Foreigners in Germany ](/en/) - Foreigners in Germany - Visa & Schengen - Studies & Language School - Expats - Employees - Retirees - Blocked Account - Guides [All tariffs](/en/product-overview-germany/)[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/) [Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/) Language 🇩🇪 Deutsch 🇺🇸 English 🇸🇦 العربية Main areas 🌍 Foreigners in Germany [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — all foreigners in GermanyThe umbrella hub: every visa, every audience, recognised cover under § 5 AufenthG — start here. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Visa & SchengenFast insurance proof for embassy/foreigners' authority — short stays, Schengen visa, family visit. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Studies & Language SchoolAffordable long-term health insurance for international students, Studienkolleg, German courses, exchange students and PhD candidates. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Expats (long-term)Affordable long-term health insurance for expats, international skilled workers, freelancers and their families. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Employees (job start)Foreign employees, skilled workers with work visa, seasonal workers and people in the recognition procedure. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Retirees / parent reunificationAffordable long-term health insurance for foreign retirees, seniors and their partners, family visits. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/) More topics [Blocked account & visaAccepted for visa, Opportunity Card and university enrolment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[AustriaAffordable long-term health insurance for Austria. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Au-pair health insuranceAffordable health insurance for au-pairs in Germany, Austria & Switzerland — from €21/month. ](/en/au-pair-health-insurance-germany/)[Guides & FAQThe most common mistakes — and how to avoid them in 2 minutes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat does it really cost? Compare tariffs, prices and benefits. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) ✈️ Visa & Schengen [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — visa & SchengenThe visa umbrella hub: Schengen, national D-visa, short stay and family reunification at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Schengen visa (up to 90 days)Fast health insurance proof for the Schengen visa — meet embassy requirements and avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/schengen-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Short stay without visaAffordable health insurance for tourist and visa-free stays — easy, flexible and quick to apply online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/short-stay-health-insurance-germany/)[Visitors & parent visits (3 months to 5 years)Cover for visitors and parents — for stays from 3 months to 5 years, affordable and online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/foreign-visitors-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Family reunificationFamily reunification: the right insurance proof for partner & children — so the application doesn't fail on missing documents. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/family-reunification-which-health-insurance-is-commonly-required-germany/) Info & requirements [Insurance proof for the visaWhich insurance proofs embassies and immigration offices actually require. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/insurance-proof-visa-germany/)[Schengen insurance requirementsMinimum coverage, repatriation and validity area — so your proof doesn't fail on formalities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/requirements-schengen-health-insurance-germany/)[Documents & checklistWhich documents to prepare before the visa application — to avoid delays. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejectionThe most common mistakes with visa, proof and insurance — and what embassies pay particular attention to. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🎓 Studies & Language School [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — students & language schoolThe student umbrella hub: GKV, private student insurance, language course, Studienkolleg, exchange and PhD at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[International studentsAffordable health insurance for international students — with quick proof for enrolment, visa and study start. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Language school & German courseThe right insurance proof for language school & German course — so visa, embassy appointment and course start don't fail. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-language-course-before-study-differences-typical-mistakes-germany/)[StudienkollegAffordable health insurance for Studienkolleg — with quick proof for embassy, immigration office and course start, plus online application. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/preparatory-college-health-insurance-proof-registration-residence-germany/)[Exchange students & PhD candidatesSuitable health insurance for foreign exchange students & PhD candidates — for studies, exchange programmes, research and PhDs, with online application incl. insurance proof. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exchange-students-phd-students-health-insurance-germany/) Info & decisions [Statutory or private student insurance?Statutory health insurance or private student insurance? Find out what really fits your status and study path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/statutory-or-private-student-health-insurance-germany/)[Student visa & proofWhich insurance proofs really count for visa, university enrolment and authorities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-proof-enrollment-university-germany/)[GKV exemptionExemption from statutory insurance: what to know before deciding — so it doesn't become a problem later. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exemption-from-statutory-health-insurance-students-key-points-germany/)[Blocked account & study startHow blocked account, university enrolment and health insurance interact — so your study start isn't delayed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🏠 Expats [Overview →](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — expats long-termAffordable & long-term: 6–60 months, family, freelancers, GKV vs private. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Long-term expats in Germany (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Germany — with accepted proof. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/long-term-health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Long-term expats in Austria (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Austria — accepted by MA 35. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Expats with family (partner & children)Affordable long-term cover for partner & children — no surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-with-family-joint-planning-partner-children-typical-questions-and-mistakes-germany/)[Freelancers & self-employed without an employerNo employer? Affordable long-term option — GKV or private, clarified fast. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-foreign-self-employed-germany/)[Transition without a job (job search / change / termination)Job change or termination: affordable bridge — long-term cover continues. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-without-employer-during-job-search-how-to-stay-insured-germany/) Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits expats?Which health insurance fits as a long-term expat? Avoid mistakes — so registration works and you can see a doctor when needed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[GKV obligation or private solution? (quick check)Clear in 2 minutes: statutory obligation or private — so you don't commit to the wrong path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/private-vs-statutory-health-insurance-expats-which-factors-typically-matter-germany/)[Proofs for authorities (residence permit, registration, etc.)Get authority proofs right: avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/checklist-documents-immigration-office-expat-insurance-proof-deadlines-germany/)[Family & pregnancy: what to watch forAlready pregnant or planning? Common pitfalls in tariffs (waiting periods/benefits) — so there are no nasty surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/pregnancy-health-insurance-expats-proofs-costs-doctor-germany/) Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) Other groups 💼 Employees [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — employees & job startThe employee umbrella hub: job start, Blue Card, job change, GKV obligation and employer proof. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Job start in GermanySo your job start works: the right health insurance + proof, fast and easy. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/)[Blue Card & skilled workersBlue Card & skilled workers: get insured properly, avoid mistakes — proof for employer and registration. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/bluecard-skilled-workers-health-insurance-proof-employer-registration-germany/)[Job change / new positionJob change made easy: stay insured, avoid mistakes, done quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/job-change-health-insurance-what-happens-with-insurance-and-prove-germany/)[Part-time, mini-job & probationPart-time/mini-job/probation: find the right health insurance — without a wrong decision. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/mini-job-midi-job-full-time-health-insurance-differences-germany/) Info & decisions [GKV registration step by stepGKV in 3 steps: error-free, step by step — so you finish quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-registration-step-by-step-employees-germany/)[What certificate does the employer need?Employer proof: which certificate is really required — explained quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/employer-asks-insurance-proof-what-must-one-submit-germany/)[GKV obligation: who must, who may choose?Who must join statutory insurance — and who may choose? Without mistakes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-requirement-who-must-who-may-foreigners-germany/)[Documents & checklist for the job startJob start checklist: documents, deadlines, next steps — so you don't forget anything. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🧓 Retirees [Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — retirees & parentsThe retiree umbrella hub: parent reunification, seniors 60+, short visits and pre-existing conditions at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Parent reunification / bringing parents to Germany permanentlyBringing parents to Germany permanently: find the right health insurance — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-health-insurance-germany/)[Foreign retirees/parents 60+ in Germany (6 months to 5 years)For parents 60+: find the right long-term cover — so doctor, hospital and authority proofs don't become a problem. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/long-term-health-insurance-seniors-germany/)[Short stay / visiting children (up to 90 days)For parent visits up to 90 days: affordable health insurance for doctor & emergency — incl. proof, quick to apply online. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/short-visit-seniors-health-insurance-which-coverage-commonly-required-germany/)[Retirees with pre-existing conditions & medication (special cases)Pre-existing conditions or medication? We show what's possible — clearly explained, no false promises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/) Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits retirees? (quick overview)Find the right solution quickly for age, stay and proof — before you choose wrong. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[Statutory possible for retirees? Or rather private? (quick check)Statutory or private as a retiree? Clear in 2 minutes — so you don't decide wrongly. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/statutory-or-private-health-fund-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Proof for foreigners' authority & residence permit (checklist)Foreigners' authority: submit the proof correctly — avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/immigration-office-insurance-proof-which-details-should-appear-germany/)[Costs in old age: contributions, deductibles, typical pitfallsWhat does it really cost in old age? Contributions, deductibles and typical cost traps — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/costs-in-age-premiums-deductible-cost-traps-germany/)[Acceptance, exclusions & waiting periods (age/pre-existing)Age/pre-existing conditions: what's possible, what's excluded, what waiting periods apply — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 🏦 Blocked Account [Overview →](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — blocked accountThe blocked account umbrella hub: student visa, application, timing and Opportunity Card at a glance. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Blocked account for the student visa (national visa D)Combine blocked account + health insurance correctly — so the visa appointment doesn't fail. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-student-visa-monthly-rate-logic-and-health-insurance-proof-germany/)[Blocked account + visa applicationWhich proofs belong together (blocked account, KV, documents) — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-and-health-insurance-for-visa-application-germany/)[Documents & checklist (blocked account)Which documents you really need — so nothing gets delayed. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-documents-checklist-providers-mistakes-the-delay-germany/)[Timing: when to open, when to take out insurance?Order & timing: blocked account + KV in time before the visa appointment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-timing-opening-and-health-insurance-taking-out-before-visa-appointment-germany/)[Opportunity Card / stay without studiesWhen the blocked account is used for other purposes: what to watch for. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/opportunity-card-residence-without-study-blocked-account-health-insurance-proofs-germany/) Info & decisions [Blocked account explained in 2 minutesWhat it is, what it's needed for, common misunderstandings. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Health insurance as proof for the visa (checklist)Which information must be on the proof — so the embassy/authority accepts it. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejection (queries / proof errors)Top mistakes + quick fix — so you don't have to resubmit. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/)[Which insurance fits at study start?How blocked account, university enrolment & health insurance interact. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/)[Blocked Account productIf you want to open the account directly: overview + application. ](/en/insurance-plans/blocked-account/overview/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) 📚 Guides [Overview →](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/) Audiences & situations [Overview — guides & FAQThe guides umbrella hub: all topics, FAQs and checklists on health insurance in Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Visa & residenceAvoid common mistakes before applying. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/)[StudentsWhich insurance fits enrolment and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/)[FAQShort answers to the most common questions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat to look out for in affordable tariffs. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/) More topics [ExpatsWhat matters during a longer stay. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[EmployeesHow employees avoid expensive wrong decisions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/)[Language course / German courseWhich insurance is needed for language course and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-language-course-german-course-germany/)[RetireesWhat retirees should watch for when moving to Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[StudienkollegSuitable cover for the time at Studienkolleg. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-preparatory-college-germany/) [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/) [All tariffs](/en/product-overview-germany/)[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/) 1 Step 1/3: Check plan (you are here) › 2 Step 2/3: Get PDF proof › 3 Step 3/3: Submit to authority [Compare Plans & Proof →](#recommended) [Care Expatriate (up to 5 years) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) [ Price From €246/month Care Expatriate · entry age 61–74 ](#tarife)[ Speed PDF in minutes Bilingual certificate by email ](#tarife)[ Acceptance Embassy & ABH § 5 AufenthG · senior residence permit ](#tarife) 1. [Home](/en/) 2. [Foreign Retirees in Germany](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/) 3. Health Insurance for Foreign Retirees in Germany No recognised insurance certificate — no residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel). The foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde) refuses incomplete files. ![Foreign retiree couple preparing residence-permit paperwork and health-insurance certificate for the German Ausländerbehörde](/assets/rentner-krankenversicherung-visum-gesundheitskarte-DxMEevBW.webp) # Retiree health insurance in Germany — costs by age band, deductibles and pre-existing conditions **Quick answer:** **Foreigners who cannot join the statutory system (GKV) usually take private health insurance in Germany — for a residence permit it must cover the whole requested stay.** Care Expatriate starts at €68/month in the 41–60 age band and €246/month at 61–74 (example values, Basic). The foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde) typically checks the start date, duration and scope of cover. Entry age 41–60: from €68/month Entry age 61–74: from €246/month 4.9/5 · 10,000+ policies since 2009 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Care Expatriate is typically recognised by German consulates and the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG — final acceptance at the authority's discretion. Written by Steffan Grund · Insurance broker for foreign nationals in Germany · Reviewed September 5, 2026 “PDF in minutes, Ausländerbehörde accepted it on the spot.” — R. K. (Berlin), EU Blue Card Quotes from internal customer feedback, anonymised and shortened. Plan: pick the entry-age band → bilingual PDF by email in minutes → present at embassy or Ausländerbehörde. › **Popular with retiree families relocating from** — show country list Pakistan (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore), India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai), Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Türkiye, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, China, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Ukraine, Russia, Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia, North Macedonia and Albania. Used since 2009 by applicants worldwide — typically accepted nationwide in Germany by the Ausländerbehörden (incl. LEA Berlin, KVR Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf) and the German embassy network under § 5 AufenthG. Accepted: Ausländerbehörde (typically) Typically recognised in Germany Embassy practice GDPR/EU Typically accepted at the Ausländerbehörde appointment (§ 5 AufenthG, case-by-case) Bilingual policy DE/EN — for HR, hospital and authorities Cover starts immediately — no waiting period, no medical questionnaire (within policy terms) Pay by credit card from abroad — no German bank account, no SCHUFA needed [ Long-stay cover, entry age 61–74 (locked for the contract) Care Expatriate from €246/month ⟷ Out-of-pocket without recognised retiree cover German hospital: ~€830/night (Indicative ward rate, Destatis hospital statistics 2024) ](#tarife) No commitment · monthly cancellation · confirmation by email (typically immediate). Indicative: a single inpatient week in a German hospital without recognised cover commonly runs €5,000–€8,000 out-of-pocket; a planned senior operation can reach the five-figure range (source: Destatis hospital statistics 2024). Care Expatriate: from €246/month (entry age 61–74). **Without recognised health insurance, no residence permit — and without a residence permit, typically no right to stay long-term.** That is the working rule for most foreign retirees and seniors moving to Germany. The Ausländerbehörde (immigration office) in practice requires a recognised insurance certificate; without it, visas and residence permits are commonly refused under § 5 (1) No. 1 AufenthG (final decision rests with the responsible authority — no legal advice). The good news: long-stay cover for foreign retirees in Germany starts [from €246/month with Care Expatriate](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) for the 61–74 entry-age band (the 41–60 band starts from €68/month). For short family visits up to 2 years, parents typically use [Care Economy](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/) from €30 per 30 days. Both English + German certificates are typically accepted by German consulates and the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG (final acceptance at the authority's discretion) and arrive by email — usually within minutes. Below we explain why statutory GKV is closed to most foreign retirees (9/10 rule under § 5 SGB V) — and how to choose the right private long-stay tariff before the embassy appointment. Looking specifically at cover for a retiree or a parent joining you? [See our guide for foreign retirees in Germany](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/). Senior Stay Coverage Options for visitors and long-stay seniors up to entry age 74 Visa & Residence Proof Proof for embassy, consulate or residence documents Online Application Receive confirmation after successful application Typically accepted at the Ausländerbehörde appointment (§ 5 AufenthG, case-by-case) Bilingual policy DE/EN — for HR, hospital and authorities Cover starts immediately — no waiting period, no medical questionnaire (within policy terms) Pay by credit card from abroad — no German bank account, no SCHUFA needed › **Frequently used by retiree families relocating from** — show country list Pakistan (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore), India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai), Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Türkiye, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, China, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Ukraine, Russia, Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia, North Macedonia and Albania. Used since 2009 by applicants worldwide — typically accepted nationwide in Germany by the Ausländerbehörden (incl. LEA Berlin, KVR Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf) and the German embassy network under § 5 AufenthG. No commitment · monthly cancellation · confirmation by email (typically immediate). Sources: BAMF · § 5 AufenthG · § 193 VVG · § 5 SGB V (KVdR 9/10 rule) · EU Reg. 883/2004 (Form S1) · HanseMerkur AVB · Care Concept AG · Statistisches Bundesamt ![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **September 9, 2026** SourcesBAMF · § 5 AufenthG · § 193 VVG · § 5 SGB V · EU Reg. 883/2004 · HanseMerkur Krankenversicherung AG · Care Concept AG · Statistisches Bundesamt 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Which health insurance do foreign retirees in Germany need? [Care Expatriate (long-stay) (up to 5 years) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)[Care Economy (short visit) 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 - Statutory GKV (KVdR) is closed to most foreign retirees because of the 9/10 rule (§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V) — pensioners who did not spend 90% of the second half of their working life in German statutory insurance normally cannot enter. - EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners can sometimes use a Form S1 (portable document) — their home statutory fund pays for German treatment. - For everyone else, Care Expatriate (HanseMerkur) from €68/month (ages 41–60) or €246/month (61–74) is the standard long-stay route, accepted by the Ausländerbehörde for the residence permit. - Short visits (up to 2 years) can use Care Economy from €30 / 30 days (ages up to 64) or from about €89 / 30 days (ages 65 and over). - Without insurance, a single hospital night in Germany costs around €830 — a full operation plus a few days inpatient care quickly reaches €5,000–€15,000 in private debt. Key facts at a glance Reviewed September 9, 2026 - **Care Expatriate (entry age 61–74):** from €246/month (Basic, deductible €150) up to €432/month (Premium, deductible €0) — lower deductible costs more. (Source: HanseMerkur AVB). - **Care Expatriate (entry age 61–74):** from €246/month (Basic, deductible €150) up to €432/month (Premium, deductible €0) — lower deductible costs more. (Source: HanseMerkur AVB). - **Care Economy (short visit):** from €30 per 30 days; the daily rate is age-graded — see the Care Economy price table below for the senior bracket. (Source: HanseMerkur AVB). - **Statutory GKV is closed to most foreign retirees** under the KVdR 9/10 rule (§ 5 SGB V) — only EU retirees with Form S1 (EU Reg. 883/2004) are an exception. ## Which cost traps catch foreign retirees most often? **Quick answer:** Four worries come up with almost every retiree-family case: the visa refused without a recognised certificate, fear of the 9/10 rule blocking GKV, uncertainty about pre-existing conditions, and the very real cost of a German hospital day (≈ €830, Statistisches Bundesamt 2024). Each can be solved with the right tariff (from €68/month long-stay or €30 per 30 days short-visit) and a digital certificate by email — typically within minutes. ## Avoid the mistakes that can delay your application ### Senior prices can surprise you Age matters. For seniors, rates can be much higher, so show age-based pricing before the visitor applies. ### Short visit or long stay? Care Visa Protect or Care Economy may fit visits; Care Expatriate may fit selected longer family-stay cases. ### Entry age limit matters Many options have an entry-age limit. Check eligibility before preparing visa or residence documents. ### Coverage gaps create stress Choose the coverage period carefully if travel dates, family visit length or residence timing are uncertain. ## What does a hospital stay in Germany cost without insurance? ## 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. 👴 Age changes everything Senior pricing and eligibility matter Older parents or seniors may face higher prices and entry-age limits, so the wrong choice can create surprises before applying. - 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. Once the cost picture is clear, the next question is timing — why most retiree families lock in cover before the embassy or Ausländerbehörde appointment, not after. ## Why act before the embassy appointment ## Why act before family visit or residence paperwork Older visitors often face age-based pricing and eligibility limits. Waiting too long can make the right option harder to choose. 👴 Age affects price Senior rates can be much higher, so check pricing before preparing documents. 📄 Entry-age limits matter Many incoming insurance options are only available up to a specific entry age. ⚡ Short visit or long stay? Care Visa Protect, Care Economy and Care Expatriate serve different stay lengths. ✅ Avoid coverage gaps Choose the coverage period carefully if family visit dates or residence timing are uncertain. ## Get insured in 3 steps 10 minutes of effort. Up to 5 years of cover. Zero paperwork. ## Family visit or longer stay in 3 steps Options for short visits or longer family stays up to entry age 74. 1. 1 🎯 Choose your plan Care Economy for visits up to 2 years · Care Expatriate for longer stays or family-reunification scenarios up to 5 years. 2. 2 📝 Complete the application Enter passport, travel/stay and visa or residence details online. Additional information may be required depending on the plan. 3. 3 ✅ Receive your proof Receive insurance proof after successful application and submit it with your visa or residence documents. ## What foreign-retiree families say about parent reunification (Elternnachzug), the Ausländerbehörde appointment and choosing Care Expatriate for long-stay cover 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/) ## Which retiree plan fits which situation? 🏛️ Long-stay · Residence permit · 1–60 months ### Care Expatriate from €246/month (ages 61–74) · from €68/month (ages 41–60) 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 ✈️ Short visits · Family reunification trip · up to 2 years ### Care Economy from only €30.00 / 30 days (coverage up to 2 years) Note: Care Economy is age-graded — visitors aged 65+ pay a higher daily rate (see price table below). 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 ## What does retiree cover cost in Germany by age band? **Quick answer:** Care Expatriate — the recommended private long-stay tariff for foreign retirees moving to Germany — starts at €68/month (entry age 41–60) and €246/month (entry age 61–74), with three tiers (Basic / Comfort / Premium) and a deductible (SB) range from €0 to €1,000. The certificate is typically accepted by the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG for parent-reunification (Elternnachzug) and senior residence permits. 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/) ### Care Economy — prices for short visits (up to 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/) Senior bracket note: Care Economy is age-graded. Visitors aged 65+ pay a higher daily rate than the 0–49 starter price (€30 / 30 days) — see the price table above for the exact senior-bracket figure. ## What does it cost to live in Germany — insurance, pension and authorities? "How much do you need to retire in Germany?" is one of the most common questions American, British, Canadian, Australian and Indian retirees ask before applying for a German retirement visa (residence permit for pensioners). Most Ausländerbehörden expect two anchors: proof of a stable monthly pension (state pension, occupational pension or private retirement income) and proof of health insurance for the entire planned stay. The German statutory pension fund — Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV) — confirms the pension side; the insurance side is what we cover here. On the insurance side, expat retirees in Germany who cannot enter German health insurance for foreigners via statutory GKV (KVdR 9/10 rule) typically use private health insurance — most often Care Expatriate from HanseMerkur. Indicative cost: €68–€432 per month depending on entry age (41–60 vs. 61–74), tier (Basic, Comfort, Premium) and deductible. Compared to a single German hospital night at ~€830 (Destatis 2024) or a planned senior operation in the €5,000–€15,000 range, German medical insurance cost for retirees is the smallest line item in a "retire in Germany" budget. EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners with Form S1 (EU Reg. 883/2004) are the exception: their home statutory fund pays for treatment inside the German statutory system, so they normally do not need Care Expatriate. Everyone else — US citizens, Canadians, Australians, Brits, Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Turkish, Egyptian and Brazilian retirees — uses the private long-stay route. The bilingual PDF certificate is typically accepted at German embassies and at city Ausländerbehörden (LEA Berlin, KVR Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf) for the residence permit under § 5 AufenthG — final acceptance remains at the authority's discretion. ## Retiring in Germany as an American, Brit, Canadian or Indian — what foreign retirees actually need Whether you are searching for "Germany retirement visa", "moving to Germany from the USA", "moving to Germany from Britain", "moving to Germany from Canada", "moving to Germany from India", "moving to Germany from Russia", "how to move to Germany as an American", "emigrating to Germany" or "do US citizens need a visa for Germany" — the health-insurance answer is the same. Germany does not issue a dedicated retirement visa, but a national D-visa and German residence permit for pensioners are typically granted under § 7 AufenthG once two anchors are proven: stable retirement income (state pension, occupational pension or private pension) and recognised health-insurance cover. Lock in your German permit before you fly — without the insurance certificate, residency permit applications are commonly refused. For US citizens, Canadians, Australians, British retirees from Britain, and Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, South African, Russian or Iranian pensioners living in Germany, the practical route is private long-stay incoming cover (Care Expatriate from HanseMerkur), because the statutory KVdR 9/10 rule normally blocks GKV entry. In-country English readers — at the LEA Berlin, KVR Munich, Bürgeramt Hamburg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Stuttgart or Düsseldorf — typically need the bilingual PDF certificate at the Anmeldung and at the Ausländerbehörde appointment for the residence permit. Bridge query for bilingual households: searches for _"expat health insurance Germany"_ and the German query _"Krankenversicherung Rentner Ausländer Kosten"_ usually land on the same product family — Care Expatriate for long stays, Care Economy for short visits. EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners are the exception: the Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV) and the home statutory fund can issue an EU Form S1 (EU Reg. 883/2004), which opens statutory cover in Germany without Care Expatriate. Everyone else — and anyone whose Form S1 has not yet landed — uses the private long-stay route as a bridge or as the permanent solution. Compared to Mawista, Allianz or PKV-style products, Care Expatriate is the senior tariff most often accepted by German consulates and city Ausländerbehörden for the retiree residence permit (final acceptance remains at the authority's discretion — no legal advice). ## How long should the health insurance run? **Quick answer:** **Usually for as long as the stay is planned to last — and not shorter.** The premium is set by the entry age at the start of the contract and stays in that age band for the whole term. Anyone who extends later typically signs a new contract at the age they are by then. Term comparison over five years — example values, Basic, age band 61–74 (€246/month) Term Premium/month Total Renewals needed Pre-existing-condition gap 12 months €246 €2,952 4 possible (2×) 24 months €246 €5,904 2 possible (1×) 60 months €246 €14,760 0 none ### Is a 61st birthday coming up? In the 41–60 age band the Basic premium is €68/month; in the 61–74 band it is €246/month (example values). The difference is around €178 a month — roughly €10,680 over 60 months. What counts is the age at the start of the contract, not the age during the term. Concretely: someone who chooses a 60-month term at 60 pays the 41–60 band for five years, rather than the 61–74 band from their 61st birthday onwards. ### When the renewal falls due A policy with a twelve-month term typically expires at close to the point the residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) also needs extending. Both then fall in the same weeks: new contract, new proof of cover, new appointment at the foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde) — often under time pressure. A longer term decouples the two dates. There is also the practical effort: every renewal means passport details, proof of address and personal information again — usually gathered by relatives in Germany while the insured person is still abroad. ### What is different at renewal Conditions that first arise during a running contract are, as a rule, covered within that contract. In a contract taken out later they typically count as a pre-existing condition — and pre-existing conditions are usually excluded in incoming tariffs. The older the insured person, the more likely it is that a diagnosis falls between two contracts, and that diagnosis then usually counts as pre-existing in the follow-up contract. A continuous term avoids that gap. A gap can also open up between two contracts — days without cover, which may become visible when the residence permit is next extended. A continuous term avoids that. A fixed term also means planning certainty for the family: the premium is set for the whole duration, with no annual recalculation. ### Maximum entry age of 74 Care Expatriate can be taken out up to the age of 74. Someone who takes only one year at a time from 72 onwards can no longer start a new contract from 75. A longer term, chosen early, maintains the cover beyond that point. ### Monthly or a single payment? **Quick answer:** **Both are possible, and the price is the same — there is no discount for paying in one go.** The difference lies in the risk: if a direct debit goes unpaid, that can affect the insurance cover — and the residence permit rests on that cover. With a single payment the cover no longer depends on an ongoing bank debit. That matters above all where the premiums are paid by relatives in Germany: a job change, a change of bank or one tight month then has no bearing on the insured person's residence status. Where the premium is transferred from abroad, one payment replaces up to sixty individual transfers — each with its own bank charges and exchange rate. ### What happens on an early return? If the stay ends earlier than planned, the contract can be cancelled in writing. The overpaid premium is, as a rule, refunded minus a €5 processing fee (source: Care Concept FAQ). So someone who pays 60 months in advance and returns after two years gets the premium for the unused months back — the financial risk of paying in one go is therefore €5, not the remaining balance. ### And if the visa is not granted? If the entry visa is not granted, or entry does not take place for other reasons, the application can be cancelled in writing before the insurance cover begins. Premiums already paid are, as a rule, refunded minus a €5 processing fee (source: Care Concept FAQ). ## Frequently Asked Questions Can foreign retirees join statutory GKV in Germany? Usually not. The KVdR 9/10 rule under § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V normally requires that the pensioner spent 90% of the second half of their working life insured in German statutory insurance. Most foreign retirees do not meet this rule, so the practical long-stay route is private long-term cover such as Care Expatriate from €68/month (ages 41–60) or €246/month (61–74). What is the Form S1 and who can use it? Form S1 is the portable EU/EEA/Swiss document that lets pensioners receiving a state pension from one EU country register their statutory cover in another. If you receive an EU pension and move to Germany, your home statutory fund typically pays for treatment in the German statutory system. Non-EU pensioners cannot use S1. How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees aged 65 or 70? Care Expatriate Basic with €150 deductible costs from €246/month for ages 61–74. Comfort tier from €248/month, Premium with zero deductible from €432/month — all three tiers cover up to 5 years. The premium is locked at the entry-age band for the full contract length and does not increase annually. Is travel or visitor insurance enough for retirees moving to Germany? Short visits up to 2 years can use Care Economy as a bridge. Usually not for a long-term move. Travel and visitor insurance (including Schengen-style policies and EHIC) is designed for short stays. For a national D-visa or Aufenthaltserlaubnis, German missions and the Ausländerbehörde typically require ongoing private cover comparable to SGB V — for example Care Expatriate. Are pre-existing conditions covered? Coverage of pre-existing conditions depends on tariff terms and individual medical review. We do not give medical advice and cannot promise acceptance for any specific condition. For retirees with diabetes, heart conditions, cancer history or other chronic illness, we recommend checking insurance options early so there is time for underwriting questions or alternative tariff choices. What insurance proof does the Ausländerbehörde require for the residence permit? Authorities typically expect proof of valid health insurance for the entire planned stay, comparable to SGB V — full name and date of birth, insurer and policy number, start and end date, Germany validity, outpatient and inpatient benefits, hospital and emergency cover, repatriation where applicable, deductible, and a statement that the policy is suitable for a long-term stay. The exact checklist varies by Ausländerbehörde; final acceptance is at their discretion. How long can a Care Expatriate contract run? Care Expatriate contracts can run for up to 5 years (60 months) per contract. The monthly premium is fixed at the entry-age band on contract start, so the total cost is predictable from day one. Can Americans or US citizens retire in Germany and get health insurance? Yes — US citizens, Canadians, Australians, Brits and other non-EU pensioners can retire in Germany on a residence permit, but they cannot normally join statutory GKV (KVdR 9/10 rule). The standard route is private long-stay incoming cover — Care Expatriate from €68/month (entry age 41–60) or €246/month (61–74) — issued by HanseMerkur, German + English certificate, accepted in practice at the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG (final acceptance at the authority's discretion). How much does private health insurance for retirees in Germany cost per month? Short-visit Care Economy starts at €30 per 30 days (ages up to 64) and from about €88.50 per 30 days (ages 65 and over). Indicative monthly costs for retire-in-Germany private cover: Care Expatriate Basic from €68/month (ages 41–60) and from €246/month (ages 61–74); Comfort tier from €248/month; Premium with zero deductible from €432/month for the senior band. Prices are locked at entry-age band for the full contract length. Do EU pensioners with Form S1 still need Care Expatriate? Usually no. EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners drawing a state pension can normally register with a German statutory fund using Form S1 (EU Reg. 883/2004) — the home statutory fund pays for German treatment. Care Expatriate is the standard route only when Form S1 is not available (non-EU retirement, private-pension-only retirees, or before the S1 paperwork lands). Always confirm S1 status with the Deutsche Rentenversicherung and the home fund before the embassy appointment. Can I bring my parents to Germany with family reunification? Yes — § 36 AufenthG (Elternnachzug / parent reunification) requires each parent to have their own valid health insurance for the residence permit. Care Expatriate from €246/month (ages 61–74, Basic tier, SB €150) is the standard private Incoming route because most foreign parents cannot enter GKV via the KVdR 9/10 rule (§ 5 SGB V). The PDF certificate is typically accepted by the German mission and the Ausländerbehörde as BAMF-recognised proof for the reunification application. 4.9/5 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009 ## Ready for the residence permit? Pick the retiree plan that fits your case. [Care Expatriate (long-stay) (up to 5 years) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)[Care Economy (short visit) 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 [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 9, 2026.