Expat health insurance doesn't come with a physical health card because it works on a reimbursement basis. You visit any accredited doctor or specialist as a self-paying or privately insured patient, pay upfront, and submit your invoices and receipts through your Feather account to be reimbursed. Coverage applies in Germany, on temporary trips across the EU and Schengen Area, and in your home country after 12 months of continuous coverage. You can also download a digital insurance card from your account to show proof of coverage.
Does expat health insurance come with a health insurance card?
Expat health insurance works on a reimbursement basis, so you don't receive a physical health card and don't need one to see a doctor. Unlike public health insurance, which issues a card you present at the practice, you pay for care yourself and claim it back afterward. You can still download a digital insurance card from your Feather account to show proof of coverage when it's requested.
How do I visit a doctor or specialist with expat health insurance?
You can visit any accredited doctor, dentist, or specialist, because expat health insurance isn't tied to a restricted network. When you book, identify yourself as a self-paying or privately insured patient so the practice bills you directly. You pay for the appointment upfront, or arrange a payment plan if the bill is large, then file a claim in your Feather account with your invoices, receipts, and prescriptions to be reimbursed.
How do I find a doctor that accepts expat health insurance?
You can go to any accredited medical provider, since expat health insurance isn't limited to a specific network. A booking service such as Doctolib can help you find doctors and specialists in your area.
Where is my expat health insurance coverage valid?
Expat health insurance covers medical care in Germany and certain temporary trips abroad, depending on the destination and how long you've held the policy:
Germany: You're fully covered here as your main country of residence.
EU, Schengen Area, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City: Temporary trips are covered for up to 90 days per trip, with no limit on the number of trips, as long as your primary residence stays in Germany.
Your home country: Coverage applies once your policy has been active for at least 12 months, up to a maximum of 6 weeks per insured year. Trips taken before the 12-month mark aren't covered.