In Germany, everyone is required by law to have health insurance. There are two ways to insure yourself against the costs incurred during medical treatment. One is to acquire coverage through the statutory health insurance (GKV) programme, which gives a wide range of insurance providers to choose from.

Most Germans are insured in the GKV system. Anyone who is permanently employed and earns less than a specific annual salary automatically receives their insurance coverage via the GKV. Contributions to statutory health insurance are based directly on your income and are paid by you and your employer (50:50). You can also insure your children free of charge through the GKV. More information is available from one of the many health insurers.