Navigating healthcare systems can be daunting for anyone, and for refugees and asylum seekers in Germany, this can be an especially overwhelming experience. Fortunately, Germany is one of the many countries that strive to provide adequate healthcare and insurance for refugees and asylum seekers.
However, there are still challenges in accessing healthcare and differences in services for refugees and asylum seekers in different parts of Germany. This can result in gaps in coverage and varying experiences for individuals seeking healthcare. This is why refugees and asylum seekers must be informed about their rights and available healthcare services in Germany.
By understanding the provisions and available healthcare services, refugees and asylum seekers can make informed decisions, advocate for their healthcare needs, and ensure they receive appropriate and timely medical support during their stay in Germany.
| 244,132 applications for protection status were submitted in Germany in 2022— the majority being from Afghanistan. |
Are Refugees and Asylum Seekers Eligible for Healthcare in Germany?
Most refugees and asylum seekers are eligible for healthcare in Germany under the provisions of the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act (Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz) and the Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz). However, the extent of their eligibility and access to healthcare services and health insurance can vary based on their specific residency status.
Refugees and asylum seekers may be entitled to full, partial, or limited access to healthcare benefits and health insurance coverage as listed here:
- Full access. Refugees/asylum seekers who obtain a German residence permit have full eligibility for healthcare and can join health insurance schemes.
- Limited access. Refuges/asylum seekers with less than 18 months of stay have limited access to emergency healthcare services and may require vouchers for doctor visits.
- Partial access. Refugees/asylum seekers with over 18 months of stay but without a residence permit may have restricted access to healthcare, often limited to emergency care or essential treatments.
Residence Permit— Full Insurance Benefits
If you have obtained a residence permit in Germany as a refugee or asylum seeker, you can enroll in a health insurance scheme. This will allow you to access comprehensive healthcare services and receive the same benefits as other insurance scheme members.
You can seek medical treatment, consultations, medications, and other necessary healthcare services with your health insurance coverage. You will also receive a health insurance card confirming your right to access healthcare and health insurance from a public medical institution.
Refugees or Asylum Seekers— Less than 18 Months
If you are a refugee or asylum seeker in Germany for less than 18 months, your access to healthcare is typically limited to emergency services— except for pregnant women who receive care according to their needs. In acute illnesses or emergencies, you are entitled to immediate medical care.
However, coverage for chronic diseases may be restricted, and access to healthcare services often requires the acquisition of vouchers. These vouchers, known as “Krankenschein,” must be obtained from the relevant authorities before each visit to a doctor— either from your initial reception center for refugees or a staff member from the Social Welfare Office.
Please note that the vouchers (Krankenschein) are valid for three months. You may receive several vouchers once during your first issuance, followed by subsequent issuances every three months. Alternatively, you can obtain a voucher from the relevant authorities each time you visit a doctor.
Refugees or Asylum Seekers— More than 18 Months
If you have resided in Germany for over 18 months as a refugee or asylum seeker, you will receive a “Health Card for Refugees” (Gesundheitskarte für Flüchtlinge). This card lets you access comprehensive medical care directly without needing vouchers or authorities’ involvement.
With the Health Card for Refugees, you can enjoy broader healthcare services, including various medical treatments, preventive care, specialist consultations, medications, and other necessary healthcare support. Still, you are not eligible for long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung).
Please note that even as a refugee, you are entitled to choose your insurance provider or fund— from among the list of public health insurance providers. Someone from the social welfare office or your initial reception center will complete your registration.
Where Can Refugees Obtain Healthcare in Germany?
After your initial settlement in Germany, you can seek out healthcare assistance with any of the following:
- Local clinics and doctors. You can visit local doctors to help you deal with medical issues. But make sure to visit a doctor who treats patients within the public healthcare system.
- Refugee health clinics. Some regions in Germany have established specialized refugee health clinics or centers that cater specifically to the healthcare needs of refugees and asylum seekers. These clinics offer various medical services and may have staff members experienced in addressing refugees’ unique healthcare challenges.
- Social welfare offices and support organizations. Social welfare offices and support organizations can guide and assist in accessing healthcare services. They can offer information about available healthcare providers, help obtain vouchers or health insurance cards, and connect refugees with appropriate medical resources.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Charitable Initiatives. Several NGOs and charitable initiatives operate in Germany to support refugees’ healthcare needs. These organizations may provide free or low-cost medical services, including health screenings, vaccinations, and access to specialized care.
What Is Covered By Refugee and Asylum Seekers Insurance?
The Asylum Seekers Benefits Act (AsylbLG) benefits the following medical services to all asylum seekers and refugees:
- Proper medical treatment of acute illnesses
- Medical care for pregnant women and those who have recently given birth
- Basic dental care
- Preventive vaccination
- Other essential medical services for a particular illness.
Please note that some cases are examined individually, and other medical services may be covered if required.
Who Pays for the Medical Services?
In Germany, the state covers the cost of medical services for refugees and asylum seekers through public health insurance. As a refugee or asylum seeker, you can select a health insurance fund that directly reimburses healthcare providers on your behalf. Since you are not required to make contributions, the state reimburses the insurance fund.
Carrying your health insurance card or voucher when visiting a doctor is crucial to ensure smooth payment processes. This allows your healthcare provider to receive reimbursement from your insurance fund or company.
Healthcare for Ukrainian Refugees in Germany
Ukrainian refugees in Germany who have obtained a residence permit under Section 24 of the Residence Act (§24 AufentG) are eligible to receive medical care and insurance through the public healthcare system. In this case, the Jobcenter will contribute on their behalf, ensuring access to necessary medical services.
If they have not yet registered for a residence permit, they can still receive medical help. However, medical insurance may not be provided in this situation. It is crucial to note that upon arrival at a refugee center, contacting a social welfare office promptly is important to ensure eligibility for medical benefits and appropriate assistance.
Please turn here for more information about Ukranian refugees in Germany and healthcare.
Important Things All Refugees and Asylum Seekers Must Know
Here is some important information about healthcare and health insurance all refugees and asylum seekers must know before heading to Germany:
- Refugees and asylum seekers must undergo certain medical procedures, including blood, skin tests, and X-rays upon arrival.
- Pregnant women are eligible for detailed medical services, including midwifery and nursing.
- All refugees and asylum seekers have the right to obtain vaccinations upon arrival, regardless of how long they have been in the country.
- All medical information and data are under Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the German Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG), and healthcare providers must treat all refugees with privacy and security.
- All refugees and asylum seekers can look for a doctor here.
- Refugees who do not speak English or German can look for a doctor that speaks their language, and if that is not possible, they can ask for an interpreter from the social welfare office.
- All refugees and asylum seekers can access a basic vocabulary list here when visiting a medical center or doctor for the first time.
What to do in an Emergency?
In case of an emergency or an acute condition, call 112 for emergency services in Germany— the call is free of charge. As a refugee or asylum seeker, you are eligible to seek care in an emergency medical center, but please note that you may be required to wait a while until you can get treated.