Health cover for temporary visitors in Germany (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: The EHIC covers treatment by doctors, dentists and hospitals contracted with a German statutory health insurance fund. It does not cover private providers, repatriation or planned treatment.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Health cards acceptedUnplanned care during a temporary visit | EHIC, GHIC [1] |
| What the card coversUnplanned care during a temporary visit | Treatment by doctors, dentists and hospitals that have a contract with a German statutory health insurance fund, on the same basis as insured residents. Co-payments apply to some services. [1] |
| Private care coveredUnplanned care during a temporary visit | No [1] |
| Repatriation coveredUnplanned care during a temporary visit | No [2] |
| Planned treatment coveredUnplanned care during a temporary visit | No [2] |
| Body to contactUnplanned care during a temporary visit | A German statutory health insurance fund (Krankenkasse), which covers the treatment and issues replacement documents. The EU page links to the GKV-Spitzenverband list of funds. [1] |
Notes
- The Commission country page names the EHIC. GHIC acceptance in EU countries is stated on the GOV.UK collection page for UK-issued cards.
- Services from providers without a contract with a German health insurance fund are paid by the patient.
- The EU pages state this for the EHIC in general: the card does not cover rescue or repatriation.
Sources
- European Commission (Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion): Germany - European Health Insurance Card (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- European Union (Your Europe): Health cover for temporary stays (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.