There are various reasons why people in Germany find themselves without insurance coverage. Individuals who are not registered in Germany or do not have valid residency status often fall outside the insurance system. While people from EU countries who are without means have the right to free movement and should, in theory, be insured in their home country, their insurance coverage often lapses if they have not paid premiums there for an extended period of time. Germans can also lose their insurance coverage—for example, due to loss of residence, the discontinuation of social benefits, or failure to pay health insurance premiums due to financial difficulties (e.g., following a period of self-employment).

As of May 7, 2026

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