Medicine in Germany is known for its unique developments and innovations. Moreover, Germany is one of the leading countries in this field. Find out more about who can be treated in Germany, the procedure for obtaining a medical visa for foreigners and German medical standards

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Germany is one of the leading countries in medical tourism. The German healthcare system is a combination of medical practice and scientific research, which leads to innovative and effective methods of treating various diseases. 

Find out how to obtain a work permit in Germany in 2023 for Ukrainians here.

European Health Insurance Card. Read here how to get preferential medical care in the EU countries.

Benefits of treatment in Germany

The country is among the top five in terms of investment in healthcare. Thus, according to the German Census Bureau, one tenth of the capital used within the country is spent on medical expenses. Thanks to such extensive national support, German medicine is a leader in the world.

Healthcare funding here is second only to Switzerland among the EU countries.

German medical standards

Tests and treatment in German clinics are carried out according to international protocols. Hospitals use only branded medicines specially manufactured for use in the EU.

In particular, in cardiac surgery, German doctors use robotic catheters to diagnose heart rhythm disorders.

Read more about healthcare in Germany for foreigners, insurance and medical tourism here.

Protect yourself to the maximum! Take out health insurance to ensure a safe stay in the country and cover unforeseen expenses

How can a foreigner go for treatment in Germany?

Step 1: Choose a hospital

Foreign patients can be treated in both private and public hospitals. What to look for when choosing a clinic:

- It should have a medical institution accreditation;

- Specialized department for diagnosis and treatment of diseases;

- Qualified and experienced staff.

Step 2: Get a treatment program and pay a deposit

The program includes a list of examinations and tests, their approximate cost, length of stay, and much more.

Step 3: Tickets, visas, accommodation

You can get to Germany by bus, car, or plane.

Please note! Some people need a Schengen type C visa for treatment in Germany. It will take 3-7 business days to get a visa. Such visas cost an average of 60 euros.

Read more about the types of work visas in Germany and how to get one here.

The procedure for obtaining a visa for treatment in Germany

A medical visa in Germany is of different types depending on the duration and type of treatment. Visas are available for:

- short-term treatment or diagnostics;

- inpatient treatment;

- long-term outpatient treatment;

- accompanying a patient. In this case, the patient and the person accompanying him or her prepare and submit their own package of documents.

Please note! For short-term treatment or examinations, a Schengen visa is issued with the possibility of staying in Germany for up to 90 days. The process of applying for it is standard. However, a hospital discharge in the form of a referral or diagnosis will serve as the basis. If you need a visa for the last three types with a stay of more than 90 days, you will have to obtain a national medical visa. 

In order to obtain a medical visa for Germany, you need to:

1. Pay a consular fee.

2. Fill out a visa application form.

3. Prepare the necessary documents and photos.

4. Submit a visa application to the German Embassy.

5. Make an appointment for an interview at the German Embassy.

6. Submit biometric data.

The process takes an average of 2 months. However, if the doctor indicates in his report that the patient needs an urgent operation, the embassy can speed up the process.

How long is the visa issued for?

Depending on the complexity and duration of the treatment, the duration of medical visas may vary. The embassy can issue a visa for the entire period of treatment, which is indicated in the letter from the German hospital. But if the treatment is outpatient, it may be limited to 90 or 180 days. You can extend this period while already in Germany.

What documents are required to obtain a visa for treatment in Germany?

1. Receipt of payment of the consular fee in the amount of 200 €.

2. Passport.

3. Online visa application form with a barcode.

4. Photos according to the standards of the German Embassy (5x5 cm, white or light gray background).

5. A letter from a doctor indicating the name of the diagnosis and the reason for the need for treatment in Germany.

What is the cost of treatment in Germany?

The cost of treatment usually includes the cost of hospitalization. Some clinics offer rooms for foreign patients and their accompanying persons for a fee (the fee depends on the hospital).

Prices for services vary from 2,100 € to 17,600 €.