Two Different Products
Newcomers often confuse two things sold to expats: incoming insurance and full substitutive PKV. They are built for different situations, and choosing the wrong one can leave you without the cover your residence status actually requires.
Incoming Insurance
Incoming insurance is temporary cover for people staying in Germany for a limited period, such as language students, visitors or those in the very early stage of a move. It is usually cheaper, time-limited, and does not build the ageing reserves or meet the substitutive-cover standard that long-term residents need. It suits a short, defined stay.
Full Substitutive PKV
Full PKV is proper long-term cover that substitutes for statutory insurance. It meets the standard German residents and workers must hold, builds reserves over time, and is the product for anyone settling or working here beyond a short period.
Match the product to your stay: a short, temporary visit can use incoming insurance. Living and working in Germany requires full substitutive PKV. Using incoming cover for a permanent move can fail the requirements your residence permit depends on.
Choosing Correctly
- Short, defined stay: incoming insurance may be appropriate.
- Living and working here: full substitutive PKV, or GKV where applicable.
- Residence permit: confirm your cover meets the standard the authorities require.
- Transition: if you arrive on incoming cover and then settle, move to proper cover promptly.
If you are unsure which you have been sold, check whether it is time-limited incoming cover or full substitutive PKV, because the difference decides whether you meet the rules for living in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
Compare PKV Tariffs for Your Situation
Our independent advisors help expats and professionals find the right private health insurance — personalised to your age, health, and budget.
Get My Free Quote