Private Krankenversicherung
Germany's private health insurance system, available to high earners, self-employed, and civil servants.
PKV (Private Krankenversicherung) is Germany's private health insurance system. Unlike GKV, premiums are based on your age and health status, not your income.
Who can get PKV:
Advantages: Faster doctor appointments, private hospital rooms, comprehensive dental, and potentially lower premiums when young.
Disadvantages: No free family coverage (each person pays separately), premiums increase significantly with age, very difficult to switch back to GKV after age 55, and no Krankengeld included.
For most expats, GKV is the safer long-term choice unless you are young, single, and planning to eventually leave Germany.
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