Travelling to Germany is always a good idea. Known for its mesmerizing castles and palaces, finger-licking good bread, and endless types of beer, Germany is a dream country for every tourist.
If you are planning to visit Germany anytime soon, then you have probably started getting ready. However, you may need a few tips and advice about a trip to Germany, prior to your departure.
To begin with, Germany is one of the safest countries in the world. Yet, when you are away from home, even a little scratch or a headache may be quite problematic. Moreover, tourists are always a bit more careless about the heat, the cold, or what they are eating, thus always exposed to catching a cold, getting heat exhausted or being poisoned from food.
This is the main reason why, when travelling to Germany, you should always have travel health insurance.
What is Travel Insurance for Germany?
Germany travel medical insurance is a type of health insurance for travellers which covers for you any health emergencies while you are in Germany.
The minimum coverage is €30,000, and there is no limit for maximal coverage. The insurance must be valid in other Schengen countries as well.
Do You Need Travel Insurance for Germany?
Even if you believe that you do not need German Travel Insurance, you will most probably need to get it anyway. Aside from the fact that Germany Travel Insurance is for your own best, there are two other reasons why you may need it.
- You are a third-country national, who needs a short-stay visa to Germany, and Travel Insurance is mandatory for a Schengen Visa application.
- You do not need a visa to the Schengen Area, but you must present travel insurance at the Schengen port of entry.
Where Can I Buy Travel Insurance for Germany?
You can buy medical travel insurance protection for Germany at a very low cost directly from Europ Assistance or DR-WALTER.
Why Should I Get Germany Travel Medical Insurance?
There are three reasons why you should get travel insurance when travelling to Germany:
- It is for your own good. Germany has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and some of the best doctors. Moreover, medical care in Germany is quite cheap compared to the GDP. Still, healthcare is cheap and affordable only for German and other EEA citizens. Third-country nationals who find themselves in a health emergency may have to pay unbearable amounts of money. When you have medical insurance, your provider takes care of that, and you do not need to worry about anything else. Moreover, if you lose your passport, luggage, or something similar, what can always happen on a trip, you will be covered.
- Because you need it to apply for a visa to enter Germany for short stays. If you need a visa to Germany, you need health insurance too. Your travel insurance must cover not just Germany but the whole territory of Schengen. Without it, your application will be rejected immediately.
- You will enter the Schengen Area through a country that asks you to present your travel insurance at the port of entry.
Travel Insurance policies for foreigners travelling to Germany that fulfil Germany Visa requirements can be purchased online from Europ Assistance or DR-WALTER.
What Does Germany Travel Insurance Cover?
If you are already planning to get visitor insurance for Germany, you should know that there are very specific things that the insurance covers. It does not automatically cover every incident in which you involve.
Most German travel health insurance providers cover the following:
- Emergency medical expenses. Any unforeseen accident or illness that requires emergent treatment during the trip in Germany for up to the amount you have been covered with. Note that exempt from this are:
- Pre-existing medical conditions.
- Unexpected incidents due to extraordinary situations, such as terrorism, war, civil unrest.
- Alcohol-related incidents. If you hurt yourself or someone else while under the influence of alcohol on your holiday in Germany, your insurer will not probably cover your expenses.
- Accidents or injuries that occur during adventure or winter sports.
- Repatriation to your home country in case of death.
- Annulment and shortening of the trip. In case you have to cancel your trip or have to head home early, due to circumstances you cannot manage.
- Cover for the delay and missed departures, travel abandonment, lost and stolen passport and baggage.
How to Choose the Best Travel Medical Insurance for Foreigners in Germany?
You may think that all insurance companies offer the same travel Insurance for Germany, but that is not true actually. They cover approximately the same things, but you should pay attention since some include more coverage, while others exempt stuff that may be important for you.
When looking up to get Germany visitors insurance, pay attention to the following:
- Make sure it covers all the services mentioned above.
- Make sure it covers the whole territory of Schengen with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Check if they cover dangerous activities, such as motorcycling, scuba diving and even trekking, if you are planning to participate in such activities.
- Check how they work, with direct billing or reimbursement.
- Find out if they offer cheaper insurance plans for specific categories and if you belong to any of those categories.
We recommend buying German visa insurance fromEurop Assistance or DR-WALTER. These companies are accepted by German Embassies and Consulates worldwide. You can also cancel it free of charge if you present proof that your German visa has been rejected.
How Does Germany Health Travel Insurance Work?
When you get travel insurance for Germany, the insurance company will give you a document. Through this document, you prove that you have travel insurance.
The document has two parts. Therefore, in case you will be applying for a visa, the embassy will get one part. You will get to keep the other part, which you may need to present when entering Germany. They only check this document for a moment and then they return it to you.
In case of a medical emergency, once you receive the medical care you need, you should present the same document to the hospital/clinic.
Depending on your insurer and your insurance plan, the payment for the medical care you receive in Germany may be made in two forms:
- Direct billing. The medical facility where you receive medical care will register your data and send the bill to your insurer. Your insurer will then need to complete the payments.
- Reimbursement. You will pay the expenses of the service you receive and obtain a bill. You will then send this bill to your insurer, who will reimburse you.
How Much Does it Cost to Get German Travel Insurance for Foreigners?
The costs of travel insurance in Germany are not fixed. Different providers have different prices. Yet the cost will vary in four main factors:
- Your age. Most providers charge older travellers more.
- The length of your trip. The longer the trip the more you will have to pay.
- The coverage limits. Despite there is a minimum coverage limit, there is not a maximum coverage limit. The higher this limit, the more you will have to pay.
- Extra coverage. Most providers offer you the chance to select extra coverage for adventure activities, winter sports and similar, for an extra charge.
On the other hand, most companies provide cheaper travel insurance for groups, families, students etc.
>> Health Insurance for International Students in Germany
Travel Insurance for Seniors & Pensioners Travelling to Germany
If you are looking to buy travel insurance for seniors travelling to Germany, read our article ““.
German Healthcare System
We can freely say that Germany has the best healthcare system in the world. With over two thousand hospitals, half of the public, and 30 university clinics, Germany is a leading country in healthcare.
German citizens and residents have the following options when it comes to health insurance:
- Public government-regulated public insurance.
- Private insurance from a German company.
- Private insurance from an international company.
- A mix of 1&2 or 1&3.
However, private companies cover only about 10% of Germans, while about 85% of the population is covered by the public insurance system.
Germany Travel Tips and Advice for Foreigners
Required Vaccines to Travel to Germany
Travellers to Germany are obliged to have the vaccine against measles, and the routine vaccines as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and the yearly flu shot.
For nationals of several particular countries, vaccines against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and rabies are also required.
Food Safety in Germany
The food industry in Germany is continuously controlled by the German authorities. Yet, when in Germany as a visitor, you should be quite observant while eating outside.
Avoid eating unwashed and raw vegetables, unpasteurized dairy products, condiments or sauces made from raw ingredients or eggs. Do not drink tap water or well water if you are unsure of the quality, as well as beverages that contain ice.
Check twice the hygiene of street sellers, if you want to buy food for them. Do not go to crowded places in time of lunch or dinner, as your food may be served undercooked.
Emergency Assistance in Germany
When in Germany, you need to remember two numbers, in case you need any emergency assistance.
- 110 – Call this number if you have a medical assistance emergency or a fire emergency.
- 112 – Call this number to connect with the German police.
Check the nearest hospital in the city you will stay in Germany and register their number. Check for nearby pharmacies as well. Germans are quite willing to offer for help if they notice one needs it. If you feel unwell, you can just stop someone and ask him or her to call you an ambulance. They will do it without a talk.
Travel Risks in Germany
Germany is one of the safest countries in the world. The overall risk for travellers to Germany is very low. Yet, it is always good to keep your eyes open and watch out for any risk.
As in every other EU country, pickpocketing is quite common in highly frequented places, like the Eiffel tower, museums, and similar. There is a low risk of getting scammed, but you should still vary of people trying to distract you. Keep your stuff close to you, and check your change.
There have been a few terrorist attacks recently in Germany, but none of them did target tourists. Crime rates are low, and so is the risk of natural disasters.
The Dangers of Cycling in Berlin
When in Berlin, you will notice stands full of bicycles for hire and bike tours. You will notice a lot of bikers who may get angry if you walk on the bike lane, and then you will know that Berlin is a biking city.
Bikes are a great way to experience Berlin. You can see a lot more in a shorter time, and save your time from walking long distances between which you cannot take a bus.
Yet, you should be aware that biking in Germany is not without any dangers. It is estimated that about seven thousand people are injured in bike-related accidents in Germany each year. Thus, you should open your eyes and be very careful.
If you are an amateur biker, you should instead just walk or take a bus. It is not worth ruining your trip by getting injured or injuring someone.
Other tips for travelling in Germany
You may be an experienced traveller, and you know what you need to travel to Germany. Still, a few more tips should always be welcomed. Following, find our tips for travelling to Germany:
- Keep cash with you. Paying with a credit card may be easier for you, but not all shops in Germany accept them. Cash is accepted everywhere, on the other hand.
- Toilets are not free of charge. You will need to pay 50 cents or more if you want to use toilets at trains or bus stations and shopping malls.
- Most shops are closed on Sunday. If you will experience a Sunday in Germany, be prepared. Shops and many restaurants are closed on this day. You better buy your groceries on Saturday, or you may be left hungry.
- Be on time for your bus/train. If you are telling yourself that it’s okay to be late since the bus will probably be late a minute or two, you are wrong big time.
- Keep your voice down. Laughing, shouting, and calling loudly are not welcomed among Germans. Try keeping your voice lower, or you’ll get some angry looks.
- Water isn’t free at restaurants. Yes, you will need to pay for your water in Germany. So think twice before ordering.
Popular tourist destinations in Germany
Top tourism destinations in Germany, which we recommend you to visit:
- Of course, the capital of Germany is the first thing you need to see. With its Brandenburg Gate, the Rebuilt Reichstag, Berlin Wall Memorial and Checkpoint Charlie, Charlottenburg Palace and Park and much more places, Berlin is a tourist magnet.
- The Castle of Neuschwanstein. One of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations is the fairy tale castle of Neuschwanstein. Did you know that Walt Disney was inspired by this castle for the Sleeping Beauty Castle?
- Dresden. Fully recuperated from the World War II bombings, Dresden is now a stunning city with many cultural institutions. Before WWII the city was called the Jewel Box.
- Cologne. The pretty cathedral of Cologne and numerous other attractions gather thousands of tourists every year in this city. The 2,000-year-old city has buzzing nightlife and a cultural scene.
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber. A 13th-century city that looks like it has gotten straight out of a fairytale with its medieval centre.
I’m driving to Germany – what other insurance cover do I need?
When travelling to Germany by your car, you will need car insurance, which is not included in German travel insurance. The insurance needs to cover all the Schengen countries you are going to drive through.
The price of car insurance to Germany depends on the type and age of your car and some other factors. You will not be permitted to enter Germany without this insurance.
Other travel insurance guides
Spain Travel Insurance, France Travel Insurance, Italy Travel Insurance, Switzerland Travel Insurance, How to Buy Travel Insurance from India, Schengen Insurance by Europ Assistance, AXA Travel Insurance, Schengen Travel Insurance UK
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FAQs
Which is the best travel insurance for Germany? ›
PROVISIT-VISUM is suitable for foreign citizens who plan to stay in Germany and Europe for up to 180 days. PROVISIT is the perfect travel insurance policy for foreign visitors who want to stay in Germany and Europe for up to two years.
Do you need travel insurance for German visa? ›Every applicant has to submit proof of medical travel insurance covering the entire length of the stay in Europe when applying for a Schengen visa.
What type of insurance is required for Schengen visa? ›A minimum coverage of medical costs: at least 30,000 EUR (equivalent to 29,500 USD as of October 2022). It should cover all member states of the Schengen Area. Cover any expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent health attention and/or emergency hospital treatment or death.
Which insurances should I have in Germany? ›Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. If you stay in Germany for more than 3 months, you must get German health insurance. There are two options in Germany: public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV) and private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung or PKV).
How do I get travel insurance in Germany? ›Travel Insurance policies for foreigners travelling to Germany that fulfil Germany Visa requirements can be purchased online from Europ Assistance or DR-WALTER.
Is healthcare free in Germany for tourists? ›All German residents can access healthcare through public health insurance; however, non-residents must have private insurance coverage to access healthcare. Temporary visitors usually need to pay for treatment and claim reimbursement later.
How long is Schengen visa travel insurance? ›Schengen Visa Guide and Travel Insurance. Please note that this policy is not applicable for more than 90 days on an immigrant visa. Kindly ensure your travel duration is 90 days or less. Please note that this policy is not applicable for more than 180 days on a non-immigrant visa.
Is AXA insurance good for Schengen visa? ›Another insurer, AXA, offers coverage of medical expenses up to 100,000 Euros (roughly $118,600) for up to 180 days. It's valid in Schengen countries and non-Schengen countries in the European Union, along with Great Britain, Liechtenstein, San Marin, Andorra, Monaco and Vatican City.
Is it mandatory to have travel insurance? ›Is travel insurance a legal requirement? While you're not legally required to have travel insurance, the pandemic has prompted several countries to add travel insurance to their entry requirements. Some require cover for COVID-19 and other countries require cover for all medical costs.
Can I apply for Schengen visa without travel insurance? ›If you are from one of the countries that requires a Schengen visa, you need to prove that you have adequate travel insurance that is valid for the entire period of your stay (or transit) in the Schengen area.
What is AXA Schengen? ›
AXA Assistance has developed the AXA Schengen insurance policy. This is a travel insurance policy that meets all the requirements of the decision of the Council of the European Union for obtaining a Schengen visa.
Can I get health insurance with a tourist visa? ›Can a tourist get health insurance in USA ? Yes, tourists can and should buy visitor visa medical insurance for USA. Given the high cost of healthcare in the US, it is very risky to travel to the US without the best health insurance for foreigners.
What does German insurance cover? ›German health insurance generally covers visits to doctors as well as basic dental care, surgery, outpatient appointments, and essential or non-cosmetic in-hospital treatments.
How can a foreigner get health insurance in Germany? ›Health insurance for foreign visitors to Germany
To be eligible for state healthcare, you'll need to get an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) before you arrive. Residents planning to stay longer than a year or those working in Germany should arrange either German health insurance or join a private insurer.
All public health insurance providers in Germany charge the same basic premium of 14.6 per cent of your gross income, plus a supplemental charge that is an average 0.9 per cent of your gross income, to a maximum monthly income of €4,425. If you earn more than this, you will not pay a higher insurance premium.
Do I need travel insurance to go to Germany from UK? ›UK citizens are entitled to a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or may still hold an EHIC which can cover you for necessary medical treatments in public healthcare centres in Germany. However, it's always important to make sure you have adequate travel insurance that includes medical cover too.
Does German health insurance cover you abroad? ›Like most countries, health insurance coverage in Germany is based upon residency. The system does not cover you when you move abroad. There is one exception, however. German citizens who sign up for the free European Health Insurance Card or EHIC can enjoy medical services in other participating European countries.
Is Germany open for tourism? ›Entry and Exit Requirements
All other U.S. citizens can enter Germany for all purposes, including tourism.
You should calculate about 30 – 60 EUR for a simple consultation when visiting a doctor in Germany without health insurance. Expect further costs for: Medication prescriptions.
How much does AOK insurance cost? ›Applicable for AOK-insured employees also in 2021, is an unchanged general contribution rate of 14.6 percent, plus a small, health insurance company individually based additional contribution.
How much is health care in Germany? ›
The majority of people, even international students, will need to register for public healthcare insurance, however, some individuals are eligible to choose a private insurance plan. The cost of healthcare coverage can range from 80 to 1,500 euros per month, depending on your circumstances and insurance premium.
Do I need travel insurance to go to Germany from UK? ›UK citizens are entitled to a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or may still hold an EHIC which can cover you for necessary medical treatments in public healthcare centres in Germany. However, it's always important to make sure you have adequate travel insurance that includes medical cover too.
Does AOK cover abroad? ›AOK PLUS is also there for you if you fall ill abroad. Your electronic health card from AOK PLUS gives you access to all benefits in kind medically required during a temporary stay in: all EU member states; ■ the EEA states, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway; and ■ Switzerland.
Which health insurance is best in Germany for students? ›Your only option is to get private health insurance with one of the private Germany student health insurance providers. The health insurance plan EDUCARE24 by a well known German health insurance company DR-WALTER is a perfect choice for all foreign students.
Is Germany open for tourism? ›Entry and Exit Requirements
All other U.S. citizens can enter Germany for all purposes, including tourism.
Required Documents to Show at the Port of Entry in Germany
EU nationals: Valid passport or national ID card. Non-EU nationals who are visa-exempt: Valid passport or travel document. Non-EU nationals with visa requirements: Valid passport with a Schengen or German national visa.
Healthcare cover for British visitors/ tourists in Germany. Persons entitled to NHS treatment should carry with them a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) when visiting Germany.
Do I need a booster to travel to Germany? ›For entry into Germany proof of vaccination, recovery or testing is no longer required.
Which is better AOK or TK? ›If you're particularly worried about skin cancer, AOK or TK are good choices: while most insurers do free skin cancer screenings every year starting at age 35, AOK fully covers them from age 14. TK, meanwhile, covers them every two years from age 20.
How much does AOK insurance cost? ›Applicable for AOK-insured employees also in 2021, is an unchanged general contribution rate of 14.6 percent, plus a small, health insurance company individually based additional contribution.
How can I contact AOK in English? ›
Hotline: 0049 9131 9242 10 128*
Is AOK private or public insurance? ›AOK is a public/statutory health insurance provider in Germany. With the long-standing history of more than 130 years and its reliable service, AOK is one of the most popular health insurance choices for international students.
Is TK public or private insurance? ›Is TK insurance private or public? Techniker Krankenkasse, known as TK, is a public insurance fund. It is one of the largest and most popular public healthcare insurers with over 8.8 million insurees and an excellent level of cover that includes online English support and dental hygiene cover.
What is covered by German health insurance? ›Public healthcare in Germany covers GP (general practitioner) appointments, in-hospital treatment, out-patient treatments, surgery, maternity services, and basic dental care.
Do I need a PCR to enter Germany? ›Travellers aged 12 or over must, if they previously spent time in an area of variants of concern, as a rule be in possession of proof of testing based on a nucleic acid test (PCR, PoC-NAAT or other nucleic acid amplification test methods). Proof of vaccination or recovery does not suffice.
Do I need to quarantine in Germany? ›Travellers who have spent time in high-risk areas must remain in quarantine for ten days. If, before the ten days have elapsed, you submit proof of vaccination or of recovery from COVID-19 to https://www.einreiseanmeldung.de, you may end your quarantine at the time you submit the necessary proof.
What is 3G rule in Germany? ›According to the Ordinance on Coronavirus Entry Regulations, the 3G rules apply when crossing the border to Germany. This means anyone aged 12 or over should present a negative test result or proof of vaccination or recovery when entering the country.