The Truth About Private Health Insurance in Germany

Debunking the Myths 

Navigating Health Insurance options as an international student in Germany can be overwhelming. Many students believe that choosing Private Health Insurance is expensive, complicated, and means you are forced to stay with it for your entire life in Germany. Don't worry, we've got a simple breakdown of all these most common myths to help you make an informed choice!

Myth 1: "Private Health Insurance Is Always More Expensive"

Reality: While it’s true that PHI can sometimes be costly, this is not always the case, especially for students. With options like ottonova’s Study Secure available as part of the Expatrio Value Package, students can access affordable and tailored Health Insurance that often provides better value than Public Health Insurance.

💡 Tip: Compare not just the monthly premiums but also the coverage benefits like dental care, hospital treatments, and additional services. 

Myth 2: "Once You Choose Private Insurance, You Can't Go to Public Insurance"

Reality: Many students fear that once they choose Private Health Insurance, they are stuck with it forever. However, this is not the case. Students who opt for Private Health Insurance in Germany during their studies can switch to Public Health Insurance once they start working or their visa status changes. This flexibility is particularly useful when transitioning from student life to a professional career.

🔄 Good to Know: ottonova’s Study Secure meets all requirements for a German visa and university enrollment, ensuring no roadblocks during your stay in Germany. Get covered now.

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April 23rd, 2025

• Step-by-step guide for the new online application portal
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Myth 3: "My University in Germany Won't Accept Private Health Insurance"

Reality: While some Private Health Insurance offerings are not accepted, substitute coverage such as ottonova’s Study Secure Premium is accepted by all German universities. Is is legally required by the German government that your university accepts this. If your university says otherwise, contact us and we will help you solve this! 

📄 Tip: Don’t let misinformation prevent your enrollment—reach out to Expatrio if your university pushes back on accepting your private health insurance.

Myth 4: "It's Too Complicated to Use"

Reality: Modern Private Health Insurance providers like ottonova offer fully digital services, making the entire process—from signing up to submitting claims—quick and easy. The ottonova app allows you to chat with doctors, book appointments, and manage your Health Insurance directly from your phone.

🧠 Remember: With features like doctor video calls and fast reimbursement processes, using Private Health Insurance can actually be more convenient than traditional Public Insurance, especially for non-German speakers.

Myth 5: "Public Health Insurance Offers the Same Coverage"

Reality: Public Health Insurance in Germany provides solid basic coverage, but private often includes additional benefits. With ottonova, for example, you get broader dental coverage, shorter waiting times for specialist appointments, and worldwide insurance coverage for up to six months annually.

🔍 Fact: Private Insurance can be more customizable, offering tailored packages that match your specific needs during your studies.

Myth 6: "You Won't Get Treatment Because of Reimbursement Processes"

Reality: The reimbursement process with ottonova is straightforward. Simply upload your invoice through the app and receive your reimbursement quickly—often before the payment is even due. For larger bills, ottonova can sometimes handle payments directly with healthcare providers, reducing the stress of managing medical expenses.

📲 Pro Tip: Keep track of all your claims digitally to avoid paperwork and stay organized.

Make an Informed Choice!

If you’re an international student searching for affordable Health Insurance in Germany, are over 30 and need student Health Insurance, or generally just require Health Insurance for your German visa, we're here to help!
Take the time to explore your options with Expatrio, ask us your questions, and choose the coverage that truly meets your needs—without falling for misconceptions!

👉 Ready to go? Get tailored Health Insurance options as part of the Expatrio Value Package, as well as your German Blocked Account and free Bank Account automatically connected. Your journey to Germany is smoother than ever.