CelinaGIf you’re moving to Germany, one of the many things you’ll need to take care of is arranging health insurance. Germany has a public healthcare system which is funded by taxes, so everyone in the country is required to have health insurance. In addition to health insurance, there are other types of insurance that are popular in Germany and worth considering. This article will give you an overview of the different types of insurance available in Germany, so that you can make the best decision for your needs.
Health and car insurance are compulsory
Health insurance (Krankenversicherung) is compulsory in Germany and you must have motor vehicle liability (KFZ- Haftpflicht), too. However, there are many types of voluntary insurances such as life or household coverage that may be available to you depending on your needs. AOK is a very popular health insurance company, with almost half of the German population being a customer.
- Compulsory membership in the state insurance system, the social insurance system. Find more information here. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_security_in_Germany
- The obligation to take out private insurance, such as motor vehicle liability insurance. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kfz-Haftpflichtversicherung
Voluntary insurances
In addition to the compulsory insurances, there are numerous other insurances. They are voluntary, and it depends on the particular life situation – for example: single or family? – which policy is important.
Some examples among the insurances:
- Household insurance
- Private liability insurance – it is strongly recommended to get it, as in Germany every person is legally obligated to be liable for any damage he or she causes and to pay for it with all of his or her personal assets. This also applies to accidental mishaps.
- Legal protection insurance
- Occupational disability insurance
- Annuity insurance
- Term life insurance
The consumer advice center provides information on which insurance policies are available and which policy makes sense in which life situation. Find out more here: https://www.verbraucherzentrale-bawue.de
Here in Germany, health insurance and car insurance are mandatory. However, there are many voluntary insurances that you can choose from to protect yourself and your family. The private liability insurance is one of the most highly recommended ones, and the Consumer Advice Center can help you find the right policy for your needs. Have you ever had to file a claim with your insurance company? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below, or subscribe to our channel for more great content like this.
