Switching health insurance is one of the easiest ways to save money and improve your healthcare experience in Germany.
A new provider could offer better customer service, more valuable benefits, or lower monthly contributions.
Many ask us how changing health insurance providers works and whether it’s even worth it.
The answer depends on a few key factors:
- Whether you have public or private insurance (Note that switching from public to private health insurance comes with different rules and benefits).
- What you’re looking for in a new provider
- Whether you’re still in a binding contract period (we’ll explain this below)
While that may seem complicated, changing your provider is usually straightforward, and the savings or added value can make a big difference over time.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- When and why you can switch health insurance providers
- How the switching process works, step by step
- What to look for when comparing plans
- And how to avoid common mistakes when changing providers
By the end of this post, you will be able to change your health insurance provider quickly and with no hassle.
Why should you switch insurance providers?
If you’ve had the same health insurance provider for a while, checking whether your plan still meets your needs is a good idea.
Health insurance premiums, benefits, and service quality can change over time, as can your personal circumstances.
Switching providers isn’t always necessary, but it can help you save money, access better benefits, or improve your experience with customer service.
Here are some key reasons to consider a change:
- Lower prices
Some public insurers charge higher contribution rates than others. If your provider increases its rate, switching could reduce your monthly costs without affecting your level of coverage.
Suggested read: The 4 Cheapest Public Health Insurance in Germany
- Customer service
Not all insurers offer the same level of support. Some provide better contact options, faster service, useful apps, or personal health consultants.
If service matters to you, it’s worth comparing providers.
- Life changes
Your insurance needs can change when you start a family, become self-employed, or move abroad.
A provider that worked in the past might not be the best fit now.
- Bonus programs
Many insurers offer incentives for healthy behavior, such as preventative check-ups or regular exercise. These include cash bonuses, vouchers, or reimbursements.
If another provider has a program that better fits your lifestyle, it may be time to switch.
- End of the minimum contract period (for private health insurance)
Private health insurance contracts often have a fixed minimum term. Once that period ends, you can compare other options significantly, such as if premiums are increasing or benefits are no longer meeting your needs.
When can you change insurance company?
You can switch public health insurance providers in Germany, but the rules depend on your situation. In some cases, you can change immediately. In others, you’ll need to wait and follow the standard cancellation process.
You’re allowed to switch without a waiting period if one of these things happens:
- You change jobs or your employment contract.
- Your insurance status changes—for example, you become self-employed or move off a family insurance plan.
- You’re switching from public to private insurance.
In these cases, you have 14 days from the change to sign up with a new provider. If you miss that window, you’ll need to follow the rules below.
If none of those apply, you’ll need to meet the standard requirements:
- You must have been with your current provider for at least 12 months (this is called the commitment period).
- After that, there’s a two-month notice period. For example, if you cancel in April, your new policy would begin in July.
Be aware that optional tariffs (like ones with deductibles) often come with a longer commitment—between 1 and 3 years, depending on what you signed up for.
How to switch health insurance company
Switching between public providers can be done in just a few steps:
1. Choose the new provider
Germany has a wide range of public health insurers. You’re free to choose the one that fits your needs best—whether you want lower contributions, better service, or access to bonus programs.
Tip: We wrote a guide on Germany’s best public insurance companies.
2. Let us do the paperwork
Once you’ve chosen a provider, apply for membership through the page below.
Just fill out the form—we’ll take care of the rest.
Sign up for public health insurance
Would you prefer to apply directly? That’s fine, too. Contact the provider and let them know you want to switch. They’ll ask for basic details like your name, address, and contact info.
After that, they’ll notify your current insurer about the change.
3. Notify your employer
If you’re employed, let your employer know about the switch so they can update their records. Your new insurer will also send them a confirmation.
If you’re receiving unemployment benefits, tell the Federal Employment Agency. They need to update your records and may continue covering your insurance costs.
What to consider when choosing a new insurance company
All public health insurers in Germany offer the same core coverage by law—but they can still differ in ways that affect your experience and costs. Here’s what to look for when comparing providers:
- Cost
Every provider sets its own additional contribution rate on top of the “standard base rate”.
Even small differences can add up over time.
Look for a provider who is open about pricing and offers tools to help you understand your monthly payment.
- Accessibility and language
If you’re more comfortable communicating in English—or need flexible ways to reach support—check how accessible the provider is.
Some insurers offer mobile apps, digital sign-ups, English-speaking agents, or extended service hours.
- Reputation and customer feedback
Reading independent reviews or talking to others about their experiences can be helpful.
Some key questions to ask are:
- How does the provider handle claims?
- Do they communicate clearly?
- Are they easy to reach when you have questions?
- Benefits
While public insurers must offer the same basic package by law, many include extra benefits, such as coverage for dental care, alternative medicine, travel vaccines, or health courses.
Some even offer subsidies or voluntary add-ons not included in standard coverage.
Others offer bonus programs, allowing you to get cash bonuses, vouchers, or reimbursements for regular check-ups, gym memberships, or preventive care.
Make sure your provider includes the benefits that matter most to you.
FAQ
Will I lose coverage during the switch?
No, you won’t lose coverage. Health insurance in Germany is continuous. Once your new membership is confirmed, your new provider will manage the switch and make sure there’s no gap.
How long does it take to switch health insurance providers?
It depends on your situation:
- If you’re switching due to a premium increase or a job change, the process usually takes 14 days.
- If you’re switching for other reasons, you may need to wait for the standard two-month cancellation period to end before your new coverage begins.
Is it free to change health insurance?
Yes, changing providers is free. There are no fees or penalties.
Ready to make the switch?
Private health insurance in Germany
support in English.
