International Health Insurance in Germany

Protect your employees when traveling abroad with international health insurance.

Why is international health insurance essential for your employees abroad?

In a globalized world, assignments abroad are no longer uncommon for companies. Whether for meetings, projects, or longer assignments, your employees are often the backbone of your international success. But what happens if they become ill or need medical assistance abroad? Without international health insurance, costs can quickly skyrocket – and your company is left with the risks. The law stipulates a reimbursement obligation for German companies and employers:

“If a company sends an employee abroad, the employer has a comprehensive duty of care. According to Section 17 of the Social Code (SGB V)in Germany, the employer is liable for all treatment costs incurred during the stay abroad for the employee and any accompanying family members. The protective obligations under Section 618 of the German Civil Code (BGB) and Section 62 of the German Commercial Code (HGB) also continue to apply during the stay abroad.”

Risks of an overseas assignment without international health insurance coverage
Imagine this: An employee is hospitalized with appendicitis during a project assignment in the USA. Without international health insurance, the treatment costs could easily reach five-figure sums – and this in a country where healthcare is notoriously expensive. Even in countries with state-run healthcare systems like the UK or Australia, foreign workers often don’t have full access to these systems. The result? Your company or the employee themselves are left with the costs. In addition, there are organizational challenges: Who handles billing? How will continued work be regulated?

What does a German international health insurance cover?

A good international health insurance policy covers these risks and offers far more than just cost protection. It typically includes:

– Medical treatment: From doctor’s visits to hospital stays to emergency transport.

– Flexibility: It provides coverage from short business trips to longer assignments (e.g., projects lasting several months).

– Legal security: Many countries require proof of health insurance for visas or work permits.

– Additional benefits: Repatriation, medication, or even psychological support in the event of a crisis.

For company bosses, this means: You not only protect your employees, but also your budget and your legal responsibilities as an employer.

International health insurance is more than an expense – it’s an investment.

Here’s an overview of the benefits of international health insurance:

Employee satisfaction: Show your team that you care about their health and safety – even across national borders. This increases loyalty and motivation.
Cost control: Avoid unexpected financial burdens due to medical emergencies.
Productivity: Healthy employees can focus on their work instead of worrying about medical or bureaucratic issues.
Reputation: Companies that provide coverage for their employees abroad are considered responsible and attractive – an advantage in the talent competition.

What you should consider before taking out international health insurance.

Before purchasing insurance, you should clarify a few points:

– Duration and location of assignment: Are the requirements for a one-week trip to Singapore different from a six-month assignment in Brazil? Adapt the insurance coverage accordingly.

– Individual needs: Does an employee have pre-existing medical conditions? Are special benefits required?

– Group solutions: For companies with frequent international assignments, many insurers offer customized company policies that are often more affordable and easier to manage.

– Combination with travel insurance: Some policies offer additional coverage, for example, in the event of trip interruption or lost luggage.

A tip: Work with an insurance broker who has experience with international assignments. This way, you can ensure that your policy is tailored precisely to your needs.

Conclusion: Security pays off

The health of your employees is not an area where you should skimp – especially not abroad. International health insurance protects your team, your budget, and ultimately your business success. In an age where flexibility and globalization are crucial competitive advantages, it is an indispensable tool for responsible company leaders.