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Travel insurance for Germany

What we know about insurance rules for visitors to Germany, how sure we are, and where to confirm it before you travel.

Region:
Europe
Capital:
Berlin
Currency:
EUR
Reviewed:

Is travel insurance required?

Schengen Area member Required for the visa

Applicants who need a short-stay Schengen visa must hold at least €30,000 of medical cover valid across all member states. Visa-exempt visitors are not caught by this visa rule. Read the Schengen guide.

Healthcare and insurance in Germany

Germany's healthcare is well regarded, but you shouldn't assume that it's free for visitors. UK nationals can use a GHIC or EHIC for medically necessary state care, and the UK government warns that this doesn't include additional standard treatment costs, medical repatriation or private healthcare.

In an emergency, dial 112 and ask for an ambulance. Then contact your insurer or assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility.

The Schengen position

Germany is in the Schengen Area. If you need a visa, you must hold at least €30,000 of medical cover, valid in all member states for your whole stay. The German Missions in India and elsewhere publish their own requirements for applicants, so follow the checklist for your application.

If you're visiting visa-free, count your days carefully. UK advice points out that the 90-day limit covers all Schengen countries over any 180-day period, and overstaying could lead to a ban of up to 3 years. Also check that your policy's dates cover the whole trip, not just the German leg.

Who should look closely at their cover?

Students. Studying in Germany is common, and student visas have their own insurance requirements that differ from short-stay rules. Read our student guide and ask your university's international office.

Trade fair and business visitors. Personal travel policies may limit business trips or work equipment. Check with your employer's insurer.

Hikers and skiers. The UK advice says altitude sickness is a risk in mountainous regions. The Bavarian Alps are popular for skiing and hiking, and these activities often need adventure sports cover.

Rail travelers. Delays and missed connections can happen on long journeys. Check how your delay cover works, and claim from the rail operator first if you're entitled to.

Drivers. Check your rental car cover before driving, particularly if you're planning to cross borders.

Official advice also mentions health risks such as mpox, so read the current health section before traveling, and ask your doctor about anything that concerns you.

Sources

Some details above come from UK government advice, which is written for British nationals. Visa, border and healthcare rules can differ for your nationality, so check with your own government as well.

Cover you might already have

  • UK residents: a GHIC or EHIC gives access to state healthcare in EU countries on the same terms as residents. It isn't a replacement for insurance. See the UK guide.

Check official travel advice

Government advice covers entry rules, safety and health. Traveling against official advice can also affect your insurance.

Before you buy a policy for this trip

  1. Confirm that Germany and any stopovers fall within the policy's territory.
  2. Check that medical and evacuation limits suit how far you'd be from good hospitals and from home.
  3. Compare your planned activities against the exclusions, including scooters and adventure sports.
  4. Declare your health conditions accurately.
  5. Carry a certificate of insurance. See how to read one.

Have an official source for Germany? Send it to us and we'll check it. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.