Germany: Health Insurance for people returning to Germany

[DUS]

Hi,

 

Quick question to those who know about health insurance for returning expats in Germany.

 

When I met up with a few friends last week a question came up that none of us really had a 100% definitive answer to. It was: what happens when you return to Germany after 10 - 20 years abroad and you need health insurance. I think to remember that everyone is legally obliged to have health insurance and that the insurer you were last insured with before you left the country has to insure you regardless of any medical condition on your return to Germany. Is that correct so far?

 

But here comes the question: Again from memory, as an employee the insurance premiums (let’s say € 600,-/month used to be shared 50/50 between the employer and the employee. Now when at the age of 55 or 60 you return to Germany and you have no employment, would you have to pay 100% of the premium? What if you cannot afford it? Would you then go through this „Hartz4“ application process or what are the current alternative solutions/options if you ever find yourself in such a dire situation? Ok, ok, other than jumping off the balcony in your Bangkok condominium. ????

 

Would be great to know as you never know if or when the sh*t hits the fan. Thank you!

 

DUS