New Status, Same Insurance Rules
Since Brexit, UK citizens moving to Germany are treated as non-EU nationals, so a visa and residence permit are now part of the process. That changes the immigration paperwork, and German authorities will expect proof of adequate health insurance as part of it. The underlying health-cover choice, GKV or PKV, works the same way it does for other arrivals.
Insurance and the Visa
A residence permit application generally requires evidence of health cover that meets German requirements. For many working arrivals that means enrolling in GKV, or taking PKV where you are eligible, from the start of your employment or self-employment. Getting the cover arranged early matters, because the permit process depends on it.
Insurance is part of the permit: for a non-EU national, proof of adequate health cover is usually needed for the residence permit. Sort the German insurance early so it does not hold up your paperwork.
The Cover Choice
- Employees: GKV unless above the income threshold, which opens PKV.
- Self-employed and freelancers: free to choose PKV from the start.
- Health assessment: PKV is priced on your medical history, so declare it fully.
- Long-term plans: if you intend to settle, factor in PKV reserves and retirement premiums.
UK citizens who lived in Germany before the Brexit transition may hold protected status under the withdrawal arrangements, which affects residence rather than the insurance choice. For new arrivals, treat the cover decision as the long-term financial one it is, and line it up with your visa process.
Frequently Asked Questions
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