Cancellation Is Governed by Rules
You cannot simply drop PKV whenever you like and be left uninsured, because health cover is compulsory in Germany. Cancelling a policy therefore follows notice rules and, in most cases, requires proof that you have continuing cover in place. That protects you from a gap, and it shapes how any cancellation has to be done.
The Common Situations
- Switching to another PKV insurer: ordinary notice applies, and you must show the new cover before the old one ends. Your ageing reserves partly transfer.
- Returning to GKV: only where you become eligible again, for example an income change under 55 or taking up qualifying employment.
- Special cancellation rights: a premium increase can open a right to switch tariff or insurer within a set period.
- Leaving Germany: ending cover on departure follows its own evidence requirements.
Line up the new cover first: because you must prove continuing insurance, arrange the replacement before you cancel the old policy. Cancelling into a gap is what the rules are designed to prevent.
Doing It Cleanly
Decide first which situation you are in, since that determines your options and timing. Give notice in the correct form and to the deadline, keep proof, and make sure the replacement cover starts before the old policy ends. When switching insurer, remember that part of your ageing reserves moves with you, which affects the maths of the switch. If a premium increase is your trigger, check the special cancellation window it may open.
Frequently Asked Questions
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