Germany, a country renowned for its efficiency and attention to detail, takes its insurance landscape seriously. Expats often find themselves navigating through a myriad of options. Fear not, for we’ve simplified this complex realm, introducing you to the 12 insurances in Germany that merit your consideration.
In the spirit of simplicity and practicality, we distinguish between the must-haves and the nice-to-haves. Let’s delve into the essentials.
The Top 5 Must-Have Insurances in Germany
1. Personal Liability Insurance (Private Haftpflichtversicherung):
In Germany, you bear 100% liability for damages to others. This insurance is a shield against the unexpected, covering costs for anything from a dropped phone to accidental bodily harm. A staggering 83% of Germans have personal liability insurance, making it a vital consideration for expats. Providers like Getsafe offer digital, English-friendly options starting at €2 per month.
Our Choice: Getsafe – Private Liability Insurance
2. Health Insurance (Krankenversicherung):
Mandatory for visa holders, health insurance in Germany is a critical choice. Expats can opt for statutory (public) or private health insurance based on work status and salary. Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) and Ottonova are favored choices. Consider consulting with independent brokers like Feather for English-friendly assistance.
Recommended: Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) for public, Ottonova for private
3. Car Insurance (KFZ-Versicherung):
Owning a car mandates at least liability insurance in Germany. The complexity of car insurance requires a comparison tool like Tarifcheck to find the optimal coverage. Whether liability or comprehensive coverage, tailor your choice to your car, location, and driving history.
4. Dog Insurance (Hundeversicherung):
For dog owners, insurance is not just for humans. Three types – liability, health, and even surgery coverage – cater to furry friends. In six German states, dog liability insurance is mandatory. Getsafe provides digital, English-friendly options.
Our Choice: Getsafe – Dog Liability Insurance, Getsafe – Dog Health Insurance
5. Travel Insurance (Auslandsreiseversicherung):
Given the German love for travel, voluntary private travel insurance is recommended, especially for those with public health insurance. Extend your coverage beyond EU standards, particularly when venturing outside the EU. Allianz offers comprehensive options, including add-ons like repatriation and accident insurance.
Recommended: Allianz – Travel Insurance
7 Additional Insurances for Consideration
1. Home Contents Insurance (Hausratversicherung):
Following personal liability insurance, home contents insurance safeguards belongings against nature’s wrath or theft. While not mandatory, it’s a wise investment for 76% of Germans. Getsafe offers digital, English-friendly coverage up to €250,000.
Our Choice: Getsafe – Home Contents Insurance
2. Legal Insurance (Rechtschutzversicherung):
Legal insurance covers lawyer fees, a prudent choice given the unfamiliarity with German laws. While not covering fines or damages, it’s a safety net for 46% of Germans. Getsafe provides digital, English-friendly options with low excess.
Our Choice: Getsafe – Legal Insurance
3. Bicycle Insurance (Fahrradversicherung):
For bike owners, especially those with high-value bicycles, consider voluntary insurance against theft and vandalism. Some home contents insurances include this or offer it as an add-on. Feather Bike Insurance is a comprehensive option.
Recommended: Feather Bike Insurance
4. Dental Insurance (Zahnzusatzversicherung):
Dental care in Germany is top-notch but expensive. Voluntary private dental insurance is worthwhile for extensive treatments not covered by public health insurance. Ottonova offers digital, English-friendly options with up to 100% reimbursement.
Our Choice: Ottonova – Dental Insurance
5. Accident Insurance (Unfallversicherung):
Private accident insurance complements the coverage provided by employers. It’s especially valuable for unforeseen costs associated with significant accidents. Adam Riese offers digital options.
Recommended: Adam Riese – Accident Insurance
6. Income Protection Insurance (Berufsunfähigkeitsversicherung):
Known as BU in Germany, this insurance safeguards against the loss of income due to long-term incapacity to work. Essential for those planning a significant part of their career in Germany. Feather offers worldwide coverage.
Recommended: Feather – Occupational Disability Insurance
7. Term Life Insurance (Risiko-Lebensversicherung):
Life insurance in Germany is a precautionary measure for financial stability for your family in the event of your demise. Feather provides digital, English-friendly options.
Our Choice: Feather – Life Insurance
Conclusion
Armed with knowledge, you can now navigate the German insurance landscape with confidence. Assess your needs, weigh the potential financial impact, and make informed choices. Remember, insurance is not just a safety net; it’s a key aspect of a secure and enjoyable life in Germany.
