---
title: "From €246/mo · Statutory or Private Insurance Germany"
description: "Statutory or private health insurance for foreign retirees in Germany: Care Expatriate from €246/month (61–74), accepted by the Ausländerbehörde."
lang: en
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          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "Why can't most foreign retirees join the GKV?",
          "acceptedAnswer": {
            "@type": "Answer",
            "text": "The KVdR (statutory health insurance for pensioners) requires the 9/10 rule: 90 % of the second half of working life in German GKV — nearly impossible for foreign retirees."
          }
        },
        {
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          "name": "How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees?",
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            "text": "From €246/month (entry age 61–74), with 3 tiers (Basic / Comfort / Premium). Younger entry ages (41–60) start much lower from €68/month."
          }
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            "text": "For short stays (≤2 years) Care Economy starts at €30 / 30 days (ages up to 64), and from about €88.50 / 30 days for ages 65 and over. Long-term, Care Expatriate is the standard solution accepted by every immigration office (German: Ausländerbehörde)."
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        },
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            "text": "Yes — EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners with a state pension can register their home-country statutory cover in Germany via Form S1 under EU Reg. 883/2004. The German AOK or DAK acts as the treating fund; the home country reimburses. Non-EU pensioners cannot use S1 and default to Care Expatriate from €246/month."
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            "text": "Foreign retirees can access: 1) Statutory insurance (GKV) if they meet pre-insurance requirements (9/10 rule), 2) Private insurance (PKV) including the Basistarif, 3) Incoming insurance like Care Economy (from €30/30 days) or Care Expatriate (from €246/month for ages 61–74, up to 5 years)."
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            "text": "Switching from PKV to GKV is generally not possible after age 55. However, if you are newly arriving in Germany and meet the 9/10 rule or bilateral agreement requirements, GKV may still be accessible. For most foreign retirees, private options like Care Expatriate provide reliable coverage."
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          "text": "From €246/month (entry age 61–74), with 3 tiers (Basic / Comfort / Premium). Younger entry ages (41–60) start much lower from €68/month.",
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          "text": "Care Economy and Care Expatriate cover persons up to 74 years — no blanket rejection due to age. Care Expatriate for ages 61–74 starts at €246/month (Basic). The GKV has no age limit if pre-insurance requirements are met.",
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---

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[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 Expatriate (up to 5 years) from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)

1.  [Home](/en/)
2.  [Foreign Retirees in Germany](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)
3.  Statutory or Private in Germany 

# Retirees from Abroad: Statutory or Private Health Insurance in Germany?

Entry age 41–60: from €68/month Entry age 61–74: from €246/month 

Sources:  § 5 SGB V (KVdR 9/10) · § 5 AufenthG · EU Reg. 883/2004 (S1) · HanseMerkur AVB 

**Foreign retirees moving to Germany almost never qualify for the statutory health system.** The KVdR (statutory pensioner cover) demands the 9/10 rule under § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V: 90 % of the second half of your working life insured in the German GKV. If you worked abroad, that door is closed. The recognised long-term route is [Care Expatriate from €68/month (ages 41–60) · €246/month (ages 61–74)](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) — accepted by every Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG.

Two narrow exceptions exist: EU citizens with a home-country state pension may use the **S1 portable form** under EU Reg. 883/2004 to keep statutory cover while living in Germany; spouses of an active GKV member may join via **Familienversicherung** (§ 10 SGB V) when own monthly income stays under €535. Outside those two paths, the long-term answer is [Care Expatriate up to 5 years](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) or, for short visits before the decision, [Care Economy from €88 / 30 days (ages 65+)](/en/insurance-plans/care-economy/overview/).

Below: how the 9/10 rule is actually counted, when the S1 form really works (and when it doesn't), the four Care Expatriate tiers with full age tables, the family-insurance exception, and the entry-age premium-locking rule that saves real money if you sign before turning 61.

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

![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **September 6, 2026**  Sources§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V · § 5 AufenthG · EU Reg. 883/2004 (S1 form) · § 10 SGB V · Care Expatriate AVB · HanseMerkur Versicherungsgruppe Hamburg · DKG-Krankenhausstatistik 2024 

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

Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009

## Pension confirmed and relocating to Germany? Lock in retiree-fair Incoming cover today.

[Care Expatriate from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)[Care Economy (short visit / decision bridge) 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

-   Foreign retirees rarely qualify for GKV — Care Expatriate from €246/month is the standard long-term solution. 
-   GKV via 9/10 rule (KVdR) requires 90 % of working life in the German GKV — almost never possible for foreign retirees. 
-   Care Expatriate covers ages up to 74 for up to 60 months (5 years). 

Key facts at a glance Reviewed September 6, 2026

-   **KVdR 9/10 rule (§ 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V):** 90 % of the second half of your working life must have been insured in the German GKV — virtually unattainable for foreigners who worked abroad. Care Expatriate is the recognised private long-term answer. (Source: § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 11 SGB V · GKV-Spitzenverband).
-   **S1 portable form (EU Reg. 883/2004):** EU citizens drawing a state pension can keep home-country statutory cover while living in Germany — issued by the home pension authority, registered with the German GKV upon arrival. Non-EU retirees are not eligible. (Source: EU Regulation 883/2004 · DVKA).
-   **Care Expatriate retiree pricing (entry-age locked):** Ages 41–60: from €68/month (Basic, €150 deductible). Ages 61–74: from €246/month — Comfort from €248, Premium with zero deductible from €432. Up to 5 years per contract, 3 tiers (Basic/Comfort/Premium). Entry age locks the premium band. (Source: Care Expatriate AVB · HanseMerkur Versicherungsgruppe Hamburg).
-   **German hospital cost without cover:** A standard inpatient day in Germany averages €830 (DKG 2024). For an unprotected retiree a single hospital stay can wipe out an entire year of pension income — Care Expatriate at €246/month removes the risk. (Source: DKG-Krankenhausstatistik 2024 · Statistisches Bundesamt).

## Four mistakes that block foreign retirees from German cover

**Quick answer:** "Why did the GKV reject my application?" — most foreign retirees stumble on one of four points: assumed years insured abroad count toward the 9/10 rule (they don't — only German GKV time counts), tried the S1 form without an EU/EEA state pension (only EU citizens drawing a real state pension qualify), waited until age 65+ before choosing Care Expatriate (entry-age premium locking means signing at 60 vs 61 is the largest single cost-saver), or booked travel insurance for the visa (travel cover is rejected by the Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG).

## 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 happens if a foreign retiree arrives uninsured

## 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.

## About to turn 61? The premium band changes — sign before your birthday

## 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.

## From pension confirmation to recognised KV-Nachweis — in 3 steps

10 minutes online with Care Expatriate. No medical exam, no health questions. PDF certificate by email within minutes — accepted by every German Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG. Cover starts on the day you select.

## 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 foreign retirees say about Care Expatriate for their long-term move to Germany

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

“ 

5/5 

> “My biggest worry was that the embassy wouldn't accept the insurance.   
> The proof was accepted immediately — no questions asked.   
> That saved me a lot of stress.” 

![Georges from Cameroon](/assets/georges-kamerun-C6GQZGzu.jpg) 

Georges

Cameroon

“ 

5/5 

> “I needed proof of insurance urgently for my visa appointment.   
> The confirmation arrived within minutes by email.   
> Everything worked first time at the embassy.” 

![Olga from Russia](/assets/olga-russland--B_6p7O-.jpg) 

Olga

Russia

“ 

5/5 

> “Found the best solution and best service for health insurance for foreign visitors and guests in Germany.   
> Fast, simple and affordable.   
> Highly recommended!” 

![Michael from Germany](/assets/michael-deutschland-CFcwSzJg.jpg) 

Michael

Germany

“ 

5/5 

> “The online sign-up was done in just a few minutes.   
> When I actually had to see a doctor, the billing went smoothly.   
> I was really covered — not just on paper.” 

![Yunhee from Australia](/assets/yunhee-australien-CaHyNO5z.jpg) 

Yunhee

Australia

### Now choose your plan

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

## Recommended tariffs for foreign retirees in Germany

🎯 Standard · long-term retiree route

### Care Expatriate 

from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) — 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

🛟 Short visit · decision bridge

### 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

Need a deeper guide on the entry-age locking and the four tier choices? [Long-term seniors guide (Care Expatriate by tier)](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/long-term-health-insurance-seniors-germany/). Bringing parents to live with adult children? [Parent-reunification health insurance (§ 36 AufenthG)](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-health-insurance-germany/). For the full overview see the [foreign-retirees hub](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/).

## Care Expatriate — full price table by entry age and tier

**Quick answer:** Care Expatriate retiree pricing (entry-age locked): ages 41–60 from €68/month (Basic, €150 deductible); ages 61–74 from €246/month — Comfort from €248, Premium with zero deductible from €432. Up to 5 years per contract, recognised by every Ausländerbehörde under § 5 AufenthG.

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 — short visit / decision-bridge price table

**Quick answer:** Care Economy: from €30 / 30 days for ages up to 64, and from €88.50 / 30 days for ages 65 and over, up to 2 years maximum. Use it for a visa bridge or trial relocation — switch to Care Expatriate before the 2-year cap for the permanent route.

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/)

## Frequently asked questions about statutory or private cover for foreign retirees

## Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't most foreign retirees join the GKV? 

The KVdR (statutory health insurance for pensioners) requires the 9/10 rule: 90 % of the second half of working life in German GKV — nearly impossible for foreign retirees.

How much does Care Expatriate cost for retirees? 

From €246/month (entry age 61–74), with 3 tiers (Basic / Comfort / Premium). Younger entry ages (41–60) start much lower from €68/month.

Is there a cheaper alternative? 

For short stays (≤2 years) Care Economy starts at €30 / 30 days (ages up to 64), and from about €88.50 / 30 days for ages 65 and over. Long-term, Care Expatriate is the standard solution accepted by every immigration office (German: Ausländerbehörde).

Does Form S1 replace private insurance for EU retirees in Germany? 

Yes — EU/EEA/Swiss pensioners with a state pension can register their home-country statutory cover in Germany via Form S1 under EU Reg. 883/2004. The German AOK or DAK acts as the treating fund; the home country reimburses. Non-EU pensioners cannot use S1 and default to Care Expatriate from €246/month.

What is the parent-reunification visa insurance requirement (§ 36 AufenthG)? 

Care Expatriate from €246/month (ages 61–74) is the standard accepted proof at all German embassies and Ausländerbehörden. Comprehensive private cover comparable to SGB V for the entire planned stay. Travel/Schengen policies and EHIC are rejected for stays over 90 days.

What health insurance options do foreign retirees have in Germany? 

Foreign retirees can access: 1) Statutory insurance (GKV) if they meet pre-insurance requirements (9/10 rule), 2) Private insurance (PKV) including the Basistarif, 3) Incoming insurance like Care Economy (from €30/30 days) or Care Expatriate (from €246/month for ages 61–74, up to 5 years).

Is there an age limit for health insurance in Germany? 

Care Economy and Care Expatriate cover persons up to 74 years — no blanket rejection due to age. Care Expatriate for ages 61–74 starts at €246/month (Basic). The GKV has no age limit if pre-insurance requirements are met.

Can I switch from private to statutory health insurance as a retiree? 

Switching from PKV to GKV is generally not possible after age 55. However, if you are newly arriving in Germany and meet the 9/10 rule or bilateral agreement requirements, GKV may still be accessible. For most foreign retirees, private options like Care Expatriate provide reliable coverage.

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

Over 10,000 policies issued · Since 2009

## Relocation date set? Pick the recognised retiree route before the move.

[Care Expatriate from €68/month (41–60) · from €246/month (61–74) ](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/)[Care Economy (short visit / decision bridge) 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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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 6, 2026.