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Medical facilities are very good in Germany, but they are expensive. Health insurance is compulsory, and most expatriate workers will have this included in their contract. It is usually necessary to show evidence of your health insurance in order to obtain a residence permit.

The majority of German nationals are insured under the national health insurance programme, which is subsidized by the Government. It is compulsory for everyone earning less than EUR3,825 per year to enrol in this scheme. Employers pay half of their employees' contributions, which amount to around 14% of monthly earnings and are tax-deductible up to a certain limit. The contributions cover a component for nursing care required as a result of old age or disability. Dependents of employees are also covered and receive the same benefits. Employees earning more than EUR3,825, and the self-employed, can also opt into the government scheme.

There are also several private insurance companies providing cover. If employees opt for private insurance, their employers still often contribute to the premiums.

In order to receive health treatment from a doctor, hospital or clinic you will need to show your social insurance card, which will be issued to you once you have registered as employed or self-employed in Germany. Those on the national health insurance scheme will not generally be required to pay any medical expenses, while those in private schemes will have to make a payment by bank transfer following their treatment, but will be reimbursed by the insurance company. Some types of treatment, however, are not covered by public or private insurance. Hospital treatment is generally free of charge for residents of Germany, except for a small co-payment fee.

Most private companies only cover medical treatment within Germany, but the public health insurance scheme is recognized for treatment throughout Europe.

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