Incoming health insurance in Germany – guide
If you travel to Germany to study, you need health insurance from the first day of your stay. In many cases, however, regular student health insurance only begins once you are enrolled at the university.
For the time between entering the country and the start of your degree, international students therefore often need so-called incoming insurance.
This insurance covers the transition period until your regular student health insurance starts.
In this guide you will learn:
- what incoming insurance is
- when you need it
- what benefits it covers
- how much it costs
- how it differs from student health insurance
What is incoming insurance?
Incoming insurance is temporary health insurance for international visitors in Germany.
It is often used by:
- international students before their studies begin
- language-school students
- exchange students
- visitors staying for a longer period
The policy covers medical treatment during the transition phase before you move to regular health insurance.
When do you need incoming insurance?
Many international students need this insurance in the following situations.
Before enrollment
You have already entered Germany, but your degree has not officially started yet.
During a language course
Many students attend a language course before they begin their degree.
While preparing for your studies
For example during:
- a Studienkolleg (preparatory college)
- preparatory courses
- application phases while you are in Germany
How incoming insurance differs from student health insurance
Incoming insurance is not the same as regular student health insurance.
| Incoming insurance | Student health insurance |
|---|---|
| temporary | long-term |
| often cheaper | comprehensive cover |
| limited benefits | full medical care |
| a bridge solution | mandatory for enrolled students |
Once you enroll at a university, you normally need statutory (public) health insurance.
➡️ Health insurance for students in Germany
What benefits does incoming insurance cover?
Benefits vary by insurer, but typically include:
- doctor visits
- emergency treatment
- hospital stays
- necessary medication
- medical emergencies
Incoming policies usually focus on acute medical treatment.
Routine check-ups or long-term treatment are often restricted.
How much does incoming insurance cost?
The price depends on several factors:
- length of cover
- age
- scope of benefits
Typical premiums are:
30 to 80 euros per month
That makes incoming insurance significantly cheaper than regular student health insurance.
How long does incoming insurance last?
Most incoming policies can be taken out for:
- a few weeks
- several months
- up to about one year
Many students use incoming insurance for 1 to 6 months until their studies begin.
How do you take out incoming insurance?
You usually complete the process online.
The typical sequence is:
Step 1: Choose an insurer
Several providers offer incoming insurance aimed specifically at international students.
Step 2: Complete the online application
You provide basic information:
- personal details
- length of stay
- when cover should start
Step 3: Receive your insurance certificate
After you sign up, you receive an insurance certificate.
You may need it for:
- visa applications
- travelling to Germany
- the transition period before enrollment
Is incoming insurance accepted for enrollment?
In most cases, no.
Universities normally require statutory health insurance once you enroll.
Incoming insurance is only a bridge solution before your studies begin.
More on enrollment:
➡️ Enrollment at German universities
When should you switch to student health insurance?
You usually switch:
- as soon as you are enrolled (Immatrikulation)
- at the latest at the official start of your programme
Statutory student health insurance costs roughly:
120 to 150 euros per month
Other important steps before your studies
Besides incoming insurance, you need to prepare several other things.
Blocked account
Many international students have to open a blocked account.
Student visa
Students from non-EU countries usually need a visa.
Applying to universities
➡️ Applying to German universities
Conclusion
Incoming insurance is an important option for international students who travel to Germany before their studies officially start.
It offers:
- medical cover during the transition period
- affordable temporary insurance
- peace of mind until enrollment
Once your studies begin, you normally switch to statutory student health insurance.
Plan your studies in Germany
The path to a degree involves many steps:
- applying to universities
- blocked account
- student visa
- incoming insurance
- student health insurance
- enrollment
Germany for Students helps you organise and plan every step of starting your studies in Germany.
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