PKV Knowledge Base

Expert guides on German private health insurance for English-speaking expats, freelancers, and professionals.

137
Articles
12
Topics
2026
Updated
Costs
PKV Premiums in Your 50s and 60s: What to Expect

Why PKV premiums rise with age, how Alterungsrückstellungen work, and the legal tools that cut your Beitrag at 60 and again at 65.

Dental
Dental Top-Up Insurance in Germany: Zahnzusatzversicherung Explained

What Zahnzusatzversicherung covers, typical premiums, waiting periods (Wartezeit) and the tooth-grading system that decides your payout.

PKV Guide
PKV vs GKV in 2026: The Complete Comparison

A complete 2026 comparison of private (PKV) and statutory (GKV) health insurance — costs, benefits, family cover and how to decide.

Expats
The Expat's Guide to German Private Health Insurance

A complete PKV guide for expats in Germany — eligibility, costs, visa requirements, choosing an insurer and getting started.

Costs
How PKV Premiums Are Calculated in Germany: A Complete Breakdown

How are German private health insurance (PKV) premiums calculated? Age, health status, coverage level, deductibles — all factors explained with real premium examples for 2026.

Eligibility
The PKV Salary Threshold Explained for 2026

The JAEG rose to €77,400 in 2026. What counts as income, the 12-month rule, and what happens if your salary dips below the threshold.

PKV Guide
How to Switch from GKV to PKV in Germany: Step-by-Step

A complete step-by-step guide to switching from GKV to PKV in Germany. Who qualifies, when to switch, what happens to dependents, and common mistakes to avoid.

Providers
Best PKV Providers for Expats in Germany 2026

The best PKV providers for expats in Germany in 2026. A practical comparison of top insurers by English support, coverage breadth, claim processing, and premium competitiveness.

Costs
7 Ways to Lower Your PKV Premium in Germany

7 practical strategies to lower your PKV premium in Germany without sacrificing essential coverage. Deductibles, no-claims bonuses, tariff reviews, and more.

Expats
What Happens to Your PKV When You Leave Germany?

What happens to your PKV when you leave Germany? Three options explained: suspend, keep running, or cancel. Plus special rules for EU moves and returning expats.

Coverage
Pregnancy and Maternity Coverage Under PKV in Germany

How PKV covers pregnancy and maternity in Germany. What's included, how to add a newborn, income during maternity leave, and PKV vs GKV for expectant mothers.

Civil Servants
PKV for Civil Servants & Beihilfe: The Complete Guide

How PKV works for German civil servants (Beamte) with Beihilfe. Learn what Beihilfe covers, how to choose a top-up PKV tariff, and how expat civil servants navigate the system.