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NEW2025.12.24

2026 German Health Insurance Premium Increase

Both Public and Private Insurance Increase

Effective January 2026

Public insurance basic rate increases from 14.6% to 15.0%, private insurance by average 5%.

Key Summary

Public Insurance (GKV)

Basic rate: 14.6% → 15.0% (+0.4%p)

Additional rate: Varies by provider (avg 1.7%)

Total rate: approx. 16.7%

Private Insurance (PKV)

Average 5% increase

Varies by age/health status

Monthly Premium Calculation

Public Insurance Example (€4,000 salary)

Basic rate (15.0%): €600

Additional rate (1.7%): €68

Total premium: €668

Employee share: €334 (50%)

Employer share: €334 (50%)

Private Insurance Example (30s)

2025: approx. €350

2026: approx. €370 (5% increase)

Why the Increase?

1

Aging Population

Increased healthcare costs due to Germany's aging population

2

Rising Healthcare Costs

Increase in medication and treatment costs

3

COVID-19 Aftermath

Increased burden on healthcare system after pandemic

Saving Tips

Compare Providers

Public insurance additional rates vary. Compare them!

Recommended Providers (Low Additional Rates)

  • TK (Techniker Krankenkasse): 1.2%
  • HKK: 0.99%
  • BKK24: 1.49%

Bonus Programs

  • Bonus for health checkups
  • Discount for exercise programs
  • Reward for quitting smoking

Review Private Insurance

Private insurance gets more expensive with age. Consider returning to public insurance!

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2026 German Health Insurance Premium Increase | ExpatHub