First 7 Days Checklist

Health Insurance Basics for Berlin Newcomers

How the German health insurance system works for new arrivals.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1Health insurance is mandatory in Germany for all residents
2GKV (public insurance): TK, AOK, Barmer — premium ~14.6% of salary
3PKV (private insurance): for self-employed or high earners
4Register with a Krankenkasse before your employer start date

City context: Berlin

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Berlin. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about First 7 Days Checklist in Berlin

First 7 Days Checklist

Health Insurance Basics for Berlin Newcomers

How the German health insurance system works for new arrivals.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1Health insurance is mandatory in Germany for all residents
2GKV (public insurance): TK, AOK, Barmer — premium ~14.6% of salary
3PKV (private insurance): for self-employed or high earners
4Register with a Krankenkasse before your employer start date

City context: Berlin

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Berlin. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about First 7 Days Checklist in Berlin