Health Insurance for Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Refugees often only have a temporary residence permit, which means they cannot immediately obtain health insurance. However, they are legally entitled to basic medical care under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act (AsylbLG) and have limited access to healthcare services. This article explains what this entails, which services are covered, and when refugees, asylum seekers, and those with temporary suspension of deportation (Duldung) are insured under the statutory health system.

Contents:

• General regulations for refugees
• Do all refugees have access to health insurance services?
• Where can refugees apply for health insurance in Germany?
• When are refugees fully insured?
• Health insurance for refugees by status: An overview
• How does the German healthcare system work?
• FAQ about health insurance for refugees

General regulations for refugees: Emergency medical care

If you have fled to Germany and are seeking asylum, you will not initially have health insurance as a refugee. HOWEVER: Germany is internationally committed to helping vulnerable individuals and must provide medical assistance to refugees. According to the Federal Ministry of Health, refugees can contact the social welfare office or the health department to receive medical assistance under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act (Sections 4 and 6). Costs are usually covered by the relevant social welfare office.

Emergency medical care for refugees and asylum seekers includes:

• Treatment by a doctor
• Treatment by a dentist
• Necessary vaccinations
• Medically required preventive care
• Emergency treatment in life-threatening situations

The treatment of chronic illnesses is usually not covered. However, under Section 6 of the AsylbLG, additional services can be applied for in individual cases. Whether refugees and asylum seekers receive these "discretionary benefits" is at the authority's discretion. Individuals with special needs, such as victims of human trafficking, individuals with psychological disorders, and those who have experienced torture, rape, or sexual violence, must be granted such benefits.

Do all refugees have access to health insurance services?

In general, all refugees receive medical care if they:

• Have acute illnesses
• Are in pain
• Are pregnant

However, special consideration is given to vulnerable individuals, such as children, pregnant women, victims of torture and violence, and people with disabilities.

Where can refugees apply for health insurance in Germany?

Although refugees and asylum seekers do not have statutory health insurance in Germany, the country provides basic medical care. But how can refugees access this care?

Upon arriving in Germany, all refugees must undergo a medical examination at the initial reception centre to identify potential health risks. If necessary, further examinations are carried out. Refugees who become ill or require medical attention later must visit the social welfare office or the health department in their place of residence. There, they are issued either a treatment voucher for medical care or an electronic health card, depending on the regulations in their state.

When are refugees fully insured?

All individuals in Germany are entitled to basic medical care. Whether refugees, asylum seekers, or individuals with Duldung (temporary suspension of deportation) receive broader healthcare services depends on the duration and status of their stay.

• Refugees residing in Germany for over 18 months: After 18 months, refugees receive an electronic health card and are entitled to services similar to statutory health insurance. However, costs are still covered by the social welfare office, not a health insurance provider.
• Refugees with a residence permit: Refugees granted residence permits are required to join the statutory health insurance system, which covers their healthcare costs.
• Refugees without legal status: Access to medical care is severely restricted. Organisations offering anonymous and free medical care can be an alternative.

Health insurance for refugees by status: An overview

How does the German healthcare system work?

The German healthcare system comprises doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals. The primary point of contact is usually the general practitioner. In emergencies, individuals can go directly to a hospital or call emergency services by dialling 112.

Examples of emergencies include:

• Sudden breathing difficulties
• Severe pain or dizziness
• Accidents or injuries
• Pregnancy complications
• Drug overdose or poisoning
• Suicidal thoughts
• Anaphylactic shock

FAQ about health insurance for refugees

1. Which doctors can I visit with refugee health insurance? Refugees can visit doctors treating statutory health insurance patients.
2. Who pays for refugee health insurance? Costs are initially covered by the social welfare office. Once refugees obtain a residence permit, the statutory health insurance provider covers costs.
3. Can refugees receive psychiatric treatment? Therapy can be applied for at the social welfare office but is subject to approval.
4. What can refugees without papers do if they are sick? Refugees without legal status can access anonymous and free medical care through specific organisations.

Can Refugees in Germany Work?

During the first three months of their stay in Germany, refugees are not allowed to work. If they are still in an initial reception facility, employment is prohibited. After three months, asylum seekers and individuals with Duldung can work under restricted conditions, but only with permission from the foreign authority and the Federal Employment Agency. Recognised refugees and individuals granted asylum receive a three-year residence permit and are allowed to work.

Is Private Health Insurance Available for Refugees?

Refugees can take out temporary private health insurance, such as the AXA Incoming Insurance, for up to six months. This insurance covers all costs related to medical treatments (excluding pre-existing or chronic conditions) up to a sum insured of €30,000 or optionally €100,000. It ensures protection in case of illness or accidents and even includes repatriation costs. Insurance can be purchased for as little as €22 per week for individuals of any age or nationality. Third parties can also purchase private health insurance on behalf of refugees. If a refugee applies for a German visa and later seeks a residence permit, they will require Incoming Insurance. AXA Schengen meets all Schengen visa requirements and is accepted by all German embassies and consulates.

Other Articles You May Find Helpful

• How to apply for a German visa?
• What are the different types of visas for Germany?
• How to apply for a student visa for Germany?
• How to apply for a visitor visa for Germany?
• How to apply for a family reunification visa in Germany?
• How to apply for a training visa in Germany?

What Is the Difference Between Refugees and Asylum Seekers?

A refugee is a general term for someone fleeing their home country due to necessity. They may be granted official refugee status in Germany. Asylum seekers, on the other hand, are refugees undergoing the asylum process. This process determines whether the applicant is eligible for asylum or refugee status, or if both will be denied.