German Public Health Insurance
Applying for German Public Health Insurance (GKV) in English
Welcome to Germany! Navigating the statutory health insurance system (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV) can be challenging if you do not speak German. Fortunately, several major nationwide health insurance providers have adapted to the needs of expats and international residents by offering their online application processes in English.
To make things as easy as possible for you, we have compiled the direct online application links for four of the largest nationwide health funds: TK (Techniker Krankenkasse), DAK Gesundheit, BARMER, and BKK firmus.
If you feel comfortable in German, you may view a wider selection of German statutory health insurance options here.
On this page
How to switch the application to English
When you click on one of the provider links below, you will first see an overview page in German. To proceed with the English application, simply follow these steps:
- Look for the blue button labeled “Zum Mitgliedsantrag” (which translates to “To membership application”).
- Click this button to open the actual application form.
- At the top of the application form, you will find a language selection menu where you can easily switch the entire process from German to English.
You will notice that the application portals also offer Russian as a language option. Please be aware that while we are more than happy to provide professional consulting and support in English, German, French, and Spanish, we do not speak Russian and therefore cannot offer advisory services for applications submitted in Russian.
Nationwide Providers (Direct Application Links)
Choose one of the major providers below to start your digital application process. These links lead directly to the official portals.
Not sure which system is right for you? (GKV vs. PKV)
The German healthcare system is distinctly divided into Public (GKV) and Private (PKV) sectors. If your gross income exceeds the annual limit (Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze), or if you are a freelancer, civil servant, or medical resident, you might be eligible for Private Health Insurance.
While the direct links above are perfect for standard public health insurance registrations, complex situations require personalized advice to avoid costly long-term mistakes.
As licensed, English-speaking brokers, we can help you compare public and private options objectively to find the best fit for your life and career in Germany. Visit our specialized advisory agency german-insurance-broker.com to schedule a free personal consultation.
Contact & Support
Bechstein Versicherungsmakler GmbH & Co. KG
Eichendorffstraße 12 · 65187 Wiesbaden · Germany
Phone: +49 611 945 89 2402
Email: jb@vmwi.de