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When organising a move or a trip to Germany, we tend to focus on booking flights, preparing documents, or finding accommodation. However, there is a very important requirement that you cannot overlook: travel insurance for the working holiday.
For all applicants, travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for obtaining the German Working Holiday Visa (depending on your nationality and the requirements of the German Embassy or Consulate in your country). Choosing insurance that does not meet the conditions may delay or even jeopardise your visa application.
In this guide, we'll explain what type of insurance you need, how much it costs, and how you can get it online in just a few minutes, even if you're applying for a different Work and Holiday visa than the German one; this article will be useful for you.
Click on the banner below to speak directly with our specialist travel insurance advisor. Don't forget to mention you were referred by Emigrando Alemania to access an exclusive discount:
What is travel insurance?
Before going into detail, it is important to understand what travel insurance actually is.
Travel insurance is designed to cover unexpected medical expenses while you are abroad, as well as being used to apply for a visa. Please note that it is different from German public health insurance, as it is intended for people who are temporarily staying abroad. Below we explain the difference between the two in detail.
If you are going to apply for the Working Holiday Visa for Germany, you will need to take out this insurance before travelling, as it is one of the mandatory requirements for obtaining the visa.
Is travel insurance compulsory for the German working holiday visa?
Yes. Applicants must submit proof of valid travel medical insurance at the time of applying for the Working Holiday Visa.
Generally, the insurance should cover the entire planned duration of your stay in Germany, which is typically up to 12 months. Furthermore, the embassy or migration authorities may request your insurance certificate during the visa application process.
Why can't I use the German public health insurance?
This is one of the questions we get asked most often.
In most cases, you cannot enrol in the German public healthcare system if you are not yet in Germany and do not have an approved visa.
Until you get a job or meet the requirements to enter the German healthcare system, travel insurance is usually the right option.
Once you start working, your situation may change and, depending on your employment, you may be able to join the German public health insurance.
If you want to learn more about how the healthcare system in Germany works, you can read our article about public health insurance BARMER.
What should good working holiday insurance cover?
A good travel insurance policy should include, as a minimum:
Emergency medical care
- Hospitalisation
- Medical consultations
- Emergency surgeries
- Prescription medications
- Medical repatriation
- Emergency dental care
- COVID-19 Cover (if included in the policy)
Some insurance policies also offer additional benefits such as:
- Lost luggage
- Civil liability
- Accident cover
- Cancellation or interruption of trip
Before taking out any insurance, carefully review what the policy includes and its exclusions.
How much does insurance for the working holiday in Germany cost?
The price usually ranges between €33 and €65 per month, which represents approximately 350 € to 745 € for 12 months' coverage.
The cost will depend on different factors, such as:
- Your age
- The duration of your trip
- The level of cover taken out
- Your country of residence
- The deductible (if applicable)
Although it may seem like a significant expense before travelling, taking out insurance will always be much cheaper than facing a medical emergency in Germany without cover.
For how long should the insurance be valid?
The most advisable thing is to take out insurance that covers the entire duration of your Working Holiday Visa.
Most German embassies request that the insurance covers the entire planned stay in Germany, so taking out a policy for 12 months is usually the safest option.
Can I buy insurance after arriving in Germany?
In most cases, no.
To apply for the visa, you will normally need to present proof of insurance before travelling.
Furthermore, purchasing insurance before leaving your country guarantees you'll be protected from the start of your trip, even if unforeseen events occur during your journey to Germany.
What documents will I receive?
Once the insurance is purchased, you will typically receive:
- Insurance certificate
- Policy details
- Summary of coverages
These documents are usually sent by email immediately and you will be able to use them to submit your visa application.
How to take out travel insurance online
The process is very simple:
- Select your travel dates.
- Choose the cover that best suits your needs.
- Complete your personal details.
- Make the payment online.
- Receive your insurance certificate instantly by email.
The whole process usually takes only a few minutes.
If you would prefer someone to help you during the process, you can also contact our partners., who will prepare a personalised quote:
Why do we recommend Go!Assistance insurance?
We recommend Go! Assistance because it offers very comprehensive coverage for those travelling to Germany with a Working Holiday Visa.
Among its main benefits are:
- Medical cover for illness or accident up to £150,000.00
- Emergency dental care
- Medication, hospitalization, and medical studies
- Emergency surgeries
- Medical transport and repatriation
- Compensation for loss, theft or damage to luggage
- Early return to country of origin in case of emergency
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between travel insurance and German public health insurance (Krankenkasse)?
Travel insurance and German public health insurance (Krankenkasse) serve different functions. Travel insurance is designed to cover medical emergencies for a limited period, especially before or during your arrival in Germany, and is usually a requirement for visa applications. In contrast, the Health insurance It is mandatory health insurance for residents and workers in Germany, covering daily medical care, treatments, doctors, hospitals, and other health services within the German system.
En muchos casos, necesitarás ambos: el seguro de viaje para ingresar al país y la Health insurance once you start living or working in Germany.
Can I use insurance taken out in my country?
Yes, as long as you meet the requirements of the German Working Holiday Visa.
What happens if I get a job in Germany?
If you start working and meet the requirements, you will be able to join the German health system.
Meanwhile, your travel insurance will remain valid until the end of the policy, unless you decide to cancel it in accordance with the insurer's terms and conditions.
Can I cancel the insurance?
Cancellation conditions vary depending on when you request the cancellation.
Always consult the terms and conditions before signing up.
What do I do if I need medical attention?
Normally you will need to:
- See a doctor or go to the hospital.
- Contact the insurer when necessary.
- Keep all invoices and medical reports.
- Follow the refund procedure indicated by the company.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Taking out insurance that doesn't cover your entire stay.
- Choosing the cheapest insurance solely without reviewing the coverages.
- Do not check if it includes medical repatriation.
- Do not read the policy exclusions.
Conclusion
Travel insurance is one of the simplest requirements to prepare before moving to Germany, but also one of the most important.
As well as helping you meet the requirements of the Working Holiday Visa, it offers you peace of mind knowing that you will be protected against any unforeseen medical issues during your stay.
If you are looking for a simple, reliable option with excellent value for money, we recommend the insurance we collaborate with. You can compare plans, purchase it completely online in a few minutes, and receive your policy immediately to submit your visa application.
