GKV vs PKV — Statutory vs Private Health Insurance

As of March 2026. All information without warranty.

Two Systems in Germany

Germany has a dual health insurance system: Most people are covered by statutory health insurance (GKV), some by private health insurance (PKV).

GKV (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung)

Who is insured here?

• Employees with gross salary up to the insurance threshold (€73,800/year in 2026)
• Students, pensioners, basic income recipients
• Family insurance: Spouses and children are covered for free (if income below €603/month)

Contributions 2026:

• General contribution rate: 14.6% of gross salary
• Additional contribution: avg. 2.9% (varies by fund: 2.18–4.39%)
• Total: approx. 17.5% (employer pays half)
• Contribution ceiling: €66,150/year — above this income, contributions don't increase further

Advantages:

• Family insurance (free for spouse/children)
• Contribution based on income, not health status
• No surcharges for pre-existing conditions
• Uniform service catalog (approx. 95% of services are identical across all funds)

PKV (Private Krankenversicherung)

Who can get private insurance?

• Employees with salary above the insurance threshold (€73,800/year)
• Self-employed and freelancers (regardless of income)
• Civil servants (government allowance + PKV)

Contributions:

• Based on age, health status, and selected plan
• Independent of income
• No employer subsidy for family members (each person pays separately)

Comparison

Recommendation for Foreigners

For most immigrants, GKV is the better choice:
- Family insurance saves money
- No risk of rising premiums in old age
- Simpler administration
- Employer pays half

PKV is worthwhile for: high earners without children, self-employed with high income, civil servants