Health insurance for visa applicants

For a German D visa (e.g., family reunification), even with an existing family health insurance plan letter from a spouse, applicants are often required to provide 'Incoming' (travel) insurance for the first 14 days. This is because integration into the family health plan typically occurs only after official registration of residence (Anmeldung) in Germany. A valid insurance policy is mandatory at the time of crossing the border.

When choosing health insurance in Germany, consider providers like Care Concept (Economy 3 at approx. €48/day, Visa Protect at approx. €2.6/day) and HanseMerkur (approx. €2.5/day). Premiums may vary based on age, with higher rates for individuals aged 65-74.

For a German 'Visa D' application based on family reunification (mother and son), an 'incoming' travel health insurance may be sufficient for the visa application itself. However, for the subsequent residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), a different type of statutory or private German health insurance is typically required. It is advisable to confirm the exact insurance requirements with the German embassy or consulate processing the visa application and the relevant immigration authorities for the residence permit.

For a German work visa, the consulate may require tourist health insurance valid until the start of employment, in addition to statutory health insurance. Russian-issued travel insurance policies are generally NOT accepted by German consulates. If applicants lack an international payment card, they may need to ask friends or rely on specific services (e.g., "tupa-germany" was mentioned) to purchase valid foreign insurance. It is always advised to confirm specific requirements directly with the German consulate where the visa application will be submitted.