Public Health Insurance: The Safe and Standard Option

Public health insurance, also known as gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV), is a government regulated system that covers medical care for a wide population. It’s highly recommended for students under 30 who are pursuing full time degrees.

Key Providers

1.TK – Techniker Krankenkasse – stands as one of the largest insurance providers in Germany, offering health insurance coverage to millions of residents and citizens across the country.

2. AOK – Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse – as another one of the largest public health insurance companies in Germany, AOK prioritizes the satisfaction of its policyholders. With a workforce of around 60,018, AOK delivers high performance service through its extensive network of over 1,032 branches. There are currently 11 AOK health insurance funds spread out in various regions of Germany.

3. Barmer is another recognized public health insurance provider in Germany. And us, Studyingermany.lk Sri Lanka’s Exclusive Partner of Barmer. With a dense branch network and well-established regional supply structures, Barmer ensures proximity to policyholders and seamless access to doctors, hospitals, and cooperation partners in their area.

4. DAK-Gesundheit – DAK-Gesundheit provides its members with comprehensive support and personalized guidance, free of charge and with no obligation. With over 5 million insured individuals trusting DAK-Gesundheit, it has established itself as a reliable and trusted health insurance provider. In addition to their exceptional service, DAK-Gesundheit offers a wide
range of benefits and services. These include a family bonus program, optional tariffs for
healthy lifestyles, and online and local prevention offers.

5. HKK Krankenkasse – It stands out as an affordable option with an additional contribution rate of only 0.98% (0.49% for employees). From natural medicine to check ups and innovative care programs, hkk ensures comprehensive care for its policyholders. With digital customer service, a doctor’s appointment service, and an electronic patient file accessible via the app, hkk prioritizes convenience and accessibility.

Benefits

•Comprehensive Coverage – It covers a wide range of services, including visits to general practitioners and specialists, inpatient and outpatient treatments, surgery, maternity services, and basic dental care.

•Direct Billing System – There is no need for upfront payment of medical expenses, as the insurance provider settles the costs directly.

•Free Healthcare for Dependents – According to TK regulations, your children and non-working spouse can be covered under your policy at no additional cost, provided their income remains below a specified threshold.

•Mandatory Requirement – Everyone in Germany, including international students, is required to have health insurance, ensuring access to medical care for all.

Private Health Insurance: Flexible for Special Cases
While most residents are covered by public health insurance, private health insurance offers an alternative for high-income earners, freelancers, civil servants, and certain student categories.

Key Providers

1.Allianz Private Krankenversicherung – It offers a wide range of health insurance plans for civil servants as well as judges, doctors and medical students. Allianz offers health insurance with exceptional terms and conditions. Allianz Private Krankenversicherung also stands out for its strong travel health insurance.

2.AXA Krankenversicherung – A large private health insurance company offering different levels of health insurance plans, AXA Krankenversicherung AG is part of the AXA Group and insures over 1.5 million people. It offers both comprehensive health insurance and supplementary health insurance. In 2020, AXA Krankenversicherung ranked number 4 in the German private health insurance market with an income from premiums of around 3.5 billion euros.

3.DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung – It offers private comprehensive health insurance, insurance plans for civil servants, and a wide range of supplementary insurances. Companies can take out company health insurance policies with DKV Deutsche Krankenversicherung.

4.Ottonova Krankensicherung – It is a digital health insurance company that aims to revolutionize private health insurance (PKV) with innovative concepts and fair pricing. Founded in 2015, the company has already become one of the leading providers in digital private health insurance.

5.Ergo Direkt Krankenversicherung – From eye insurance to dental supplements, ERGO specializes in supplementary insurance coverage. ERGO Direkt Krankenversicherung wants to use digitalization to provide its customers with a better service. Examples are various apps, including a dental app for adults and an app to help children brush their teeth properly. Billing can also be done unbureaucratically via the app.

Benefits

•Choice and Flexibility – Private insurance allows us to choose from a wider network of doctors and hospitals, including both public and private providers. This includes the ability to request specific specialists, like those who speak your native language.

•Shorter Wait Times – Privately insured individuals often experience faster access to appointments and treatments, particularly with specialists.

•More Comprehensive Coverage – Some private plans may cover a broader range of services than public insurance, including major dental work, visual aids, and potentially even worldwide coverage.

•Individualized Plans – Flexibility to customize the coverage according to individual needs and preferences, which may reduce the necessity for additional supplementary insurance.

Tips from Our Partners: Barmer, Fintiba & Wise

As the Sri Lankan’s Exclusive Partner of Barmer, one of Germany’s top public health insurance providers, we have got your back from day one. Whether you are applying for a bachelor’s or master’s in Germany, having reliable health insurance is not just mandatory. It s essential for your safety and peace of mind.
With us, your health insurance is handled securely, quickly, and in full compliance with German visa and university requirements. No confusing paperwork, no language barriers, and no stress. You focus on your studies—we’ll make sure your health is protected every step of the way.

With Fintiba
•Combine your block account in Germany with health insurance on one platform since we are the Sri Lankan’s Exclusive Partners of Barmer.
•Easily choose a TK (public) or a private plan that fits your needs
•Get immediate insurance confirmation for visa processing
•Perfect for students seeking scholarships in Germany who need fast approvals

With Wise
•Send money to your block account with low fees and real exchange rates
•Avoid hidden bank charges
•Quick and secure transfer for your living expenses and insurance payments

Choosing the right insurance depends on your age, student status, and study path:

•Going for a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Germany under 30? Choose public insurance via TK or AOK
•Studying a language course or over 30? Consider private insurance
•Need to save money while transferring to your block account in Germany? Use Wise

Whether you are planning to study in Germany, applying to a free university, or seeking tuition free education and scholarships in Germany, having the right health insurance is your foundation for stress free start.