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Sign up for health insurance (Krankenkasse)

Verified as of 2026-06-12 · Official source

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Most residents are in the statutory system (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) through a Krankenkasse; some can choose private insurance. Which steps apply to you depend on whether you're employed or self-employed — this guide branches accordingly. It explains general routes, not which fund or plan is right for you.

  1. Choose a statutory health fund (Krankenkasse)

    Statutory funds offer broadly the same legal benefits, with small differences in extra services and the supplementary contribution rate (Zusatzbeitrag). You're free to pick any fund that's open to you. Compare a few before deciding.

    Typical time: An afternoon to compareCost: Contribution is a percentage of income; funds differ slightly

  2. Give your fund details to your employer

    As an employee, your employer registers you with your chosen fund and deducts the contribution from your salary automatically. Ask your new fund for a Mitgliedsbescheinigung and pass it to HR.

    Typical time: 10 minutesCost: Shared between you and your employer

    First complete: Choose a statutory health fund (Krankenkasse)

    Documents to bring

    • Membership confirmation (Mitgliedsbescheinigung) from your chosen fund
    • Your tax ID and social-security number

  3. Register yourself as a voluntary or self-employed member

    If you're self-employed or not employed, you arrange membership directly with the fund and pay the contribution yourself. The fund will tell you which documents it needs to set your rate.

    Typical time: A few days for the fund to processCost: You pay the full contribution yourself

    First complete: Choose a statutory health fund (Krankenkasse)

    Documents to bring

    • Proof of income
    • Your tax ID

  4. Receive your health card (Gesundheitskarte)

    Your fund posts a chip card with your photo. Bring it to doctor and pharmacy visits. Until it arrives, the fund can issue a temporary certificate if you need care.

    Typical time: 1–2 weeks by postCost: Free

    First complete: Choose a statutory health fund (Krankenkasse)

Official sources

Related guides

Change log

  • 2026-06-12 — Initial publication.

Information, not legal or tax advice. Always check the official source for your case.