The Basistarif is a legally standardized tariff within Private health insurance (PKV), introduced in Germany in 2009 as a fallback for people who must hold comprehensive health insurance but cannot access or afford regular private coverage. Its benefits are defined to be comparable to Public health insurance (GKV), and premiums are capped at the maximum public contribution. Eligibility is restricted to specific groups, such as people in financial hardship or those refused regular private tariffs because of age or health. The Basistarif is not one of our Private health insurance plans, and applications for it cannot be submitted through us.
What is the Basistarif in Private health insurance (PKV)?
The Basistarif is a standardized tariff within Private health insurance (PKV), introduced in Germany in 2009. It exists as a fallback for people who are required to hold comprehensive health insurance but cannot access or afford other coverage. Private insurers offer the Basistarif, and its benefits are legally defined to be comparable to those of Public health insurance (GKV). The Basistarif is not one of our Private health insurance plans (Short-term, Standard, Plus, or Premium).
Who is eligible for the Basistarif?
The Basistarif is a safety net rather than a plan people choose freely when comparing public and private coverage. Eligibility is limited to specific groups:
People who are privately insured, or required to be privately insured, and are experiencing financial hardship.
People who cannot access regular Private health insurance (PKV) tariffs because of their age or health condition.
Self-employed people and freelancers who cannot afford standard Private health insurance (PKV) plans.
Former Public health insurance (GKV) members who no longer qualify for public coverage but are still required to hold health insurance.
How do I apply for the Basistarif?
A Basistarif request is submitted directly to a private health insurer that offers the tariff, and insurers are legally required to grant access when the eligibility requirements are met. A Basistarif application cannot be submitted through Feather. The documentation usually required includes:
Proof of current Private health insurance (PKV) coverage
Documentation of financial hardship or other qualifying circumstances
A written request for the Basistarif
You can contact our support team for more assistance or additional resources.
What does the Basistarif cover?
The Basistarif covers essential medical services aligned with the benefits of Public health insurance (GKV):
General and specialist medical care
Hospital treatment
Medically necessary medications
Maternity care
Basic dental treatment
How does the Basistarif compare with regular Private health insurance (PKV) plans?
The Basistarif offers fewer benefits than regular Private health insurance (PKV) plans. The billing fee schedule is restricted, which can reduce access to certain private doctors and treatments. Premiums are capped at the maximum contribution level of Public health insurance (GKV), and they can be lower for people with a low income.
When should the Basistarif be considered?
The Basistarif should be considered only as a last resort, for people who must hold comprehensive health insurance but do not qualify for regular public or private coverage. Most people — including employees, students, self-employed people, and people who have recently moved to Germany — have more suitable options available:
Public health insurance (GKV) with one of our partner providers (TK, AOK, BARMER, or DAK)
Private health insurance (PKV), for eligible professionals and higher earners
Expat health insurance, for stays of up to 5 years
Long-term expat health insurance, for stays without that time limit
Our recommendation tool compares these options based on employment status, needs, and eligibility.