Germany Student Visa Insurance: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Iranian Students

Studying in Germany is not just a dream, but a great investment. High quality education, low tuition fees, and an 18-month post-study work visa make the country an ideal destination for students. Germany is a popular choice for Iranian students in particular, with around 15,200 Iranian students already studying, making it the fifth largest international student community in Germany.

But the first and most important step in making this golden dream come true is getting a visa. And the most confusing step in the process is often health insurance. I have seen these steps myself, and have seen countless students confused. That is why I decided to write this comprehensive guide to guide you every step of the way. In this article, we will explain everything in a very simple and practical way, according to the latest rules for 2026.

If you want more information about the world of insurance, visit our website dotzee.eu. We provide more comprehensive articles on insurance there. So let’s get started.

Why is health insurance necessary in Germany?

Health insurance in Germany is a legal obligation, not just an option. The country operates a “mandatory health insurance system”, which means that every resident, including students, is required to have insurance. If you do not have the correct insurance, not only can your visa be rejected, but you will also not be able to enter university. In short, the principle of “No Insurance = No Legal Residence” in Germany.

This insurance protects you financially. Going to the doctor or being hospitalized in Germany can be very expensive. Without insurance, a minor illness or accident can wipe out your entire education savings. That’s why the German government makes it mandatory, not only to protect you, but also to reduce the burden on its healthcare system.

🧑‍🎓 Step 1: Choose insurance according to your age

There are two main types of insurance for international students in Germany: public (statutory) and private. Which one you qualify for depends first and foremost on your age. This is the most important decision you’ll have to make.

Under 30: Public insurance (GKV)

If you’re under 30, you’re eligible for German public health insurance (called GKV). This is usually the best and most recommended option for students.

Benefits: Public insurance is comprehensive. It covers doctor’s visits, hospital stays, basic dental treatment, emergency care, and preventive check-ups. The biggest advantage is that you don’t have to pay in advance; you just show your insurance card to the doctor and the rest is between the insurance company and the doctor.

Costs: In 2026, the monthly fee for public insurance is around 110 to 130 euros, with a special discount for students. This fee is roughly the same across all public providers.

Over 30: Private insurance (PKV)

If you are 30 years old or older, you are unfortunately not eligible for public student insurance. You will have to take out private health insurance (PKV).

Advantages and disadvantages: Private insurance depends on your age, health status and the level of coverage chosen. Its advantages can include shorter waiting times and better access to specialist doctors. However, keep in mind that not all private policies are suitable for visas. They must meet the conditions set by the German authorities (which are the same as public insurance).

Costs: The price of private insurance can vary greatly, but it is often cheaper than public insurance, especially for young and healthy students. However, it is important that you only choose a plan after consulting a specialist.

A special situation: students of language and preparatory courses

If you are only going for a language course or a Studienkolleg, your requirements may be slightly different. Generally, such students can opt for private insurance, even if they are under 30 years old. However, you must clearly inform the embassy about your specific situation when applying for a visa.

📝 Step 2: Practical procedure for applying for insurance

Once you have decided what type of insurance you need, the real process begins. This process consists of two parts: “Incoming insurance” and “Main statutory insurance”.

1. Incoming / travel insurance (for the first 90 days)

The German embassy requires a specific type of travel insurance with the visa application, usually called “Incoming Insurance”. This insurance covers the first 90 days of your entry into Germany.

The main conditions of this insurance are:

• Duration: Required for at least 90 days (3 months) from the date of entry into Germany.
• Coverage area: Must be valid throughout the Schengen area.
• Sum insured: Must have a minimum cover of 30,000 euros.
• Coverage: Must include emergency medical care and repatriation, and must not have any exclusions (such as coronavirus infections).

This insurance is usually provided by companies such as Dr-Walter, Mawista, or Care Concept. It is a cheap and temporary policy that only meets the visa requirement. Do not consider it as the final insurance for university admission.

2. Main statutory / private insurance (for long-term stays)

This is the insurance that you will need for your entire stay. You can start it in your home country.

• When to start?: You can register with a German public insurance company (e.g. TK, AOK, DAK) right from your home country.
• Start date: This insurance will be valid from the start of the semester (October 1 or April 1) and the date of enrollment at the university.

Practical advice: When you go to the visa interview at the embassy, you will need to present proof of both types of insurance. A certificate of incoming insurance for the first 90 days, and a confirmation letter from the public insurance company for the period after that (called a “Vorversicherungsbescheinigung”). This letter guarantees that you will be included in their insurance after you arrive in Germany and enroll at the university.

🏛️ Step 3: Choose the best public insurance company (TK, AOK, DAK)

You have many options for public insurance. The three most popular companies in Germany and preferred by international students are:

Choosing any of these three is basically the same, as their essential services are almost identical. However, the additional benefits and English support are what make the difference.

Step 4: Special Visa Application Procedure for Iranian Students

The visa process for Iranian students is a little different, so it is important to understand it.

Where to Apply: Iranian students should only obtain their German student visa (Type D) from the German embassy, Tehran or their authorized service provider TLS Contact.

Application Time: This process can usually take a little longer. The processing time for Iranian student visas is estimated at 8 to 12 weeks, and sometimes there can be further delays due to additional checks. That is why it is best to apply at least 3 to 4 months before your classes start.

Important Documents: You should have the following ready, among other necessary documents: Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) worth 11,904 euros, University Admission Letter (Zulassungsbescheid), valid passport, biometric photos, and proof of language proficiency.

All these steps may seem a bit daunting at first, but if you understand them one by one, the process becomes quite simple. On our website dotzee.eu you will also find further guidance and useful links related to insurance, which can make your journey even more peaceful. further guidance and useful links regarding insurance, which can make your journey even more peaceful.

💰 Step five: Expenses and budget planning

It is very important to make a budget for studying in Germany. Your main expenses will be:

• Blocked account: 11,904 euros per year for 2026 (approximately 992 euros per month). This amount reflects your living expenses.
• Visa fee: 75 euros for a national visa (Type D).
• Public health insurance: approximately 110-130 euros per month.
• Incoming insurance: a one-time cost for the first 90 days, which can be around 30 to 50 euros.
• University semester fee: This varies depending on the university, but it usually includes a semester ticket (for public transport).

Creating a budget with all these costs in mind will save you from any financial problems in the future.

💡 Valuable advice and common mistakes to avoid

Based on years of experience, I would like to give you some practical advice that will help you a lot in this process:

1. Don’t rely on travel insurance alone: Many students think that their incoming insurance is enough. It is only for the visa and will not be accepted for university admission.
2. Open a blocked account and insurance together: Many companies (such as Expatrio, Fintiba, Coracle) offer combination packages of a blocked account and public insurance. This not only simplifies the process, but is often also cheaper.
3. Check the documents carefully: Make sure your insurance certificate has your name, passport number and the correct dates written on it. A small mistake can lead to your visa application being rejected.
4. Get free advice: Many educational consultants in Pakistan and other countries provide free guidance on German visas and insurance. Don’t hesitate to seek their help.

🌐 What to do after arriving in Germany?

Congratulations! You have received your visa and arrived in Germany. But the insurance journey does not end here.

• Enrollment at university: When enrolling at university, you must submit an electronic notification (M10 certificate) from your public insurance company. Your insurance company can send this notification directly to the university.
• Residence permit: Within 90 days of arriving in Germany with your visa, you must apply for a residence permit from the foreigners’ office (Ausländerbehörde) in your city. You will also need to provide proof of your public insurance.
• Choosing a family doctor: With public insurance, you can go to any doctor, but it is best to choose a “family doctor” (Hausarzt) near your home. This doctor will be your first point of contact.

✅ Conclusion

The insurance process for a German student visa may seem a bit complicated at first, but if you understand it step by step, it is quite simple and doable.

📌 Remember: the right insurance is not only a visa requirement, but also a guarantee of your peaceful and successful stay.

According to the latest rules from 2026, a correct insurance plan with a Blocked Account of 11,904 euros will pave the way for you to Germany 

🔗 For more detailed information, you can visit the official website of the German Federal Foreign Office:

👉 German Federal Foreign Office – Visa Information

Hopefully this guide will be useful to you. 💡
If you have any further questions, be sure to ask in the comments below 

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question: Can I use a general travel insurance from Pakistan/Iran for a German student visa?

Answer: No, the embassy requires a special “incoming insurance” that meets their specific conditions (minimum coverage of 30,000 euros, 90-day period). Normal travel insurance is rejected.

Question: Can I still get public insurance if I am over 30?

Answer: Unfortunately, if you are 30 or older, you are not eligible for public student insurance. You must take out private insurance that meets the conditions set by the German authorities.

Question: Can I convert my private insurance to public insurance after arriving in Germany?

Answer: If you are under 30 and you previously had private insurance, you can convert to public insurance when you enter university. However, it is very difficult to convert it back to private once you have taken out public insurance.

Question: Do I have to take out a specific insurance for my university city for my visa?

Answer: No, you can choose any German public insurance company (e.g. TK, AOK, DAK), whether or not it is located in your university city. All of these are equally valid throughout Germany.

Question: Can I get my insurance money back if my visa is rejected?

Answer: Most insurance companies (especially for incoming insurance) refund the money in case of a visa rejection, provided that you have an official rejection letter from the embassy. Be sure to read these terms before purchasing a policy.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Always verify requirements.