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How to register for mandatory health insurance in Düsseldorf (2026)

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Cost

Free

Approx. 14.6% of gross salary (GKV). Minimum for freelancers: ~220€/month. Students: ~120€/month.

Time at office

30-60 minutes for the application

Estimated time

Active registration in 1-3 days. Health card in 1-2 weeks by mail.

Quick summary

English guide to register for Krankenversicherung in Düsseldorf. In Germany, health insurance is mandatory for everyone. Public health insurance (GKV), cost, and how to sign up.

Required documents

  • Registration confirmation

    Confirmation of residence registration.

  • Passport or ID card

    Valid identity document.

0 €
Approx. 14.6% of gross salary (GKV). Minimum for freelancers: ~220€/month. Students: ~120€/month. €0.00
€0.00
€0.00

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Choose between public (GKV) or private (PKV) health insurance

    Most employees go with GKV. For incomes above 69,300€/year, you can choose PKV. For newcomers, GKV is always the safest option.

    !

    Expert tip

    "If you come from Spain with an EHIC card, it covers 3 months. But when starting to work in Germany, you must sign up for German health insurance."

  • 2

    Choose a Krankenkasse and apply for registration

    Go to official site

    The main ones are TK, AOK, DAK, and Barmer. They all cover the basics; the difference is in extra services and digital apps.

    !

    Expert tip

    "TK (Techniker Krankenkasse) is very popular among expats for its digital app and English services."

  • 3

    Receive the Gesundheitskarte

    In 1-2 weeks, you will receive the green health card (Gesundheitskarte). With it, you can visit a doctor anywhere in Germany.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Always carry the Gesundheitskarte. You need it every time you visit a doctor."

Offices and service points - Dusseldorf

TK Düsseldorf

AOK Düsseldorf

DAK Düsseldorf

Frequently asked questions

Is health insurance mandatory in Germany?
Yes. It is mandatory for absolutely everyone who resides in Germany, regardless of nationality.
How much does health insurance cost in Germany?
For employees, approx. 14.6% of gross salary, paid half by the employer. For freelancers, the minimum is around 220€/month. Students have a reduced rate of approx. 120€/month.

Trámites relacionados

This procedure in other cities

Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.