Many people assume that simply living in an EU country means they are automatically insured for any problems they might face while travelling elsewhere in the EU. The assumption may be widespread, but it’s only partly true.
The EHIC: what it is and what it covers
All residents of Germany with statutory health insurance (GKV) are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
In Germany, this is known as the Europäische Krankenversicherungskarte and is usually automatically printed on the reverse side of your electronic health insurance card (eGK). Generally, there’s no need to apply for it separately.
To check your EHIC is valid, turn your card over and look for the dedicated EHIC section, which typically includes a German flag or “DE” country code, your name, a specific EHIC card number and an expiry date. The validity period varies by insurer but can be up to five years.
These details confirm that you’re entitled to medically necessary state‑provided healthcare during temporary stays in other EU countries, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
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When travelling, you should always carry your physical eGK or a digital version via your insurer’s app, along with a valid form of ID. In many countries, healthcare providers require the EHIC to be presented at the point of treatment.
What the EHIC doesn’t cover
While the EHIC is extremely useful, it is only designed for temporary stays such as holidays or short trips.
The EHIC does not apply if you move to another country, or travel specifically for medical treatment. Nor does it cover private healthcare, medical repatriation to Germany, private ambulance transfers or the additional co‑payments charged in some countries.
As a result, even with an EHIC, serious illness or injury abroad can still lead to significant out‑of‑pocket costs.
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Do German residents need additional travel insurance?
For residents of Germany travelling within the EU, travel insurance is not legally required but it is widely recommended.
The EHIC only applies to healthcare. It offers no protection against non‑medical travel risks such as trip cancellations, theft, lost luggage or delays.
Travel insurance can therefore act as a safety net, covering both medical costs that fall outside the public system and the many non‑medical issues that can disrupt a trip.
Special rules for non‑EU nationals living in Germany
If you are a non‑EU national legally residing in Germany and covered by statutory health insurance, you are still eligible for an EHIC.
But there is an important restriction: non‑EU nationals cannot use their EHIC for medical treatment in Denmark, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland.
If you fall into this category and plan to travel to any of those countries, you will need separate insurance that includes health coverage.
Visitors, visas and ETIAS
The situation is different for people who do not live in Germany. If you’re visiting the EU and need a Schengen visa, travel insurance is a legal requirement and must provide at least €30,000 in medical coverage.
For travellers who can enter the EU visa‑free under the upcoming ETIAS system, travel insurance is not mandatory. However, ETIAS guidance explicitly recommends insurance, noting that it can provide valuable protection beyond what public healthcare systems offer.
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Choosing travel insurance from Germany
If you decide to take out travel insurance as a resident of Germany, make sure the policy is designed for people living in Germany. Policies from insurers in countries you previously lived in, such as the UK or the US, may not be valid once you are resident here.
Well‑known providers that offer travel insurance to Germany‑based residents include HanseMerkur, ADAC, Allianz, AXA, ERV and DKV.
Prices vary depending on destination and coverage, but for most EU travel, policies often cost around €1.50 to €5 per day.
With reporting by Tom Pugh
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