Other popular alcoholic beverages include brandy and schnapps. All our solutions have core cover as standard. It's a tradition favored by many Germans, and declining a drink is often frowned upon. Drinking is a central aspect of the German social scene. Although many Germans can speak and understand English, getting to grips with the German language will go a long way to helping expats assimilate fully into their new surroundings. Cigna has been in business since 1792. : Cigna hat keine Kontrolle … Social gatherings tend to revolve around the consumption of alcohol, but expats shouldn't be surprised if it is also served at business meetings. Since 1 January 2009, anyone resident in Germany is required to possess health insurance cover from a provider licensed in Germany. Group Universal Life (GUL) insurance plans are insured by CGLIC. Life (other than GUL), accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and disability plans are insured or administered by Life Insurance Company of North America, except in NY, where insured plans are offered by Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York (New York, NY). However, if you wish to take up long-term residence in Germany you must exchange the card for a local health insurance scheme. Information for Expatriates about Health Insurance Germany, Travel Health Insurance, International Health Insurance. Whatever your health insurance needs, our International Medical Plans can be tailored to meet them, while always offering a global support network of hospitals and medical professionals. As a global health service leader we help people improve their health, well-being and sense of security, wherever they are in the world. Major players in the automobile, technology and pharmaceutical industries have their headquarters in Germany, including BMW, Volkswagen, Siemens and Bayer and Merck.  Euro. The Bahn card is a good investment for those planning on using trains regularly as it's valid for a year and often gives discounts. Cignaglobalhealth.com, Javascript must be enabled. About Cigna International health insurance plans. Once you are a resident in Germany, it is compulsory to register with either a statutory German health insurance scheme (gesetzliche Krankenkasse, GVK) or a private insurance scheme (private Krankenversich…  Right, Major Religion Cigna provides health insurance solutions for people in more than 200 countries and territories, catering for millions who have chosen to relocate to a new country. Expats can only take advantage of statutory health insurance if they’re formally employed by a company in Germany. While there are dedicated post offices across German cities, many stationary and grocery stores also have sections where customers can access postal services. An economic powerhouse in Europe, Germany continues to attract highly skilled expats in search of exceptional living standards and international experience in its innovative and exciting high-tech industries. : Cigna ist ein internationales Gesundheitsdienstleistungsunternehmen, dessen erklärtes Ziel lautet, Menschen zu helfen, ihre Gesundheit und ihr Wohlbefinden zu verbessern und ihre innere Ruhe zu stärken. Cigna Global Expat Health Insurance provides medical insurance and health services for employees across the world. „Cigna®” ist eine eingetragene Servicemarke der Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. und für die Verwendung durch die Cigna Corporation und ihre Tochtergesellschaften lizenziert. There are also tips on social and business etiquette, and how to keep in touch and navigate the public transport system. [6], [6] https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/weather-germany, Captial Expats shouldn't be offended if someone corrects their behavior, such as being told that they have parked incorrectly. Schooling can be expensive too, especially if choosing to send children to international schools, but public schools are free and may be a good option for those wanting to stay in Germany long term. Deutsche Post is responsible for the national postal service and is generally very fast and reliable. : http://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/visas-germany, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/accommodation-germany, https://www.german-way.com/history-and-culture/education/the-german-school-system/, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/education-and-schools-germany, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/weather-germany, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/culture-shock-germany, https://www.livescience.com/44007-german-culture.html, https://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/guides/guide-to-germany-etiquette-customs-culture-business/, https://germanculture.com.ua/german-cuisine/german-food/, https://www.officeholidays.com/countries/germany, https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Germany-Mobile-Infrastructure-Broadband-Operators-Statistics-and-Analyses, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/keeping-touch-germany, https://www.economywatch.com/world_economy/germany/industry-sector-industries.html, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/working-germany, https://www.greenbacktaxservices.com/blog/american-expats-in-germany-taxes/, https://www.expatbriefing.com/country/germany/living/retirement-for-expats-in-germany.html, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/doing-business-germany, https://www.german-way.com/travel-and-tourism/public-transport-in-germany/, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/transport-and-driving-germany, https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/banking-money-and-taxes-germany, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Insurance Product Information Documents (IPID). Two types of health insurance exist in Germany: private health insurance through a company, or statutory health insurance provided by the state. Notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 EUR, Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 cents, and 1 and 2 EUR. CIGNA GLOBAL – HEALTH INSURANCE FOR EXPATS IN GERMANY. We’ve accomplished this by holding fast to one principle: that it’s our mission to ensure the health and well-being of every customer we serve. Accommodation is particularly expensive, and it’s not uncommon for rent to take up almost half of one’s salary. Punctuality is important and being late is considered a sign of disrespect, in both social and business circles. Worldwide: +44(0)1475 777625 United States: 877.539.6295. International Health Insurance in Germany. Life (other than GUL), accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and disability plans are insured or administered by Life Insurance Company of North America, except in NY, where insured plans are offered by Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York (New York, NY). The official currency in Germany is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Appearances are also important, with business attire usually formal and conservative; dark suits and business wear for both men and women working in corporate environments, although more creative industries may see workers dressing more casually. We want to be your partner for success so your business and people thrive, wherever they are in the world. Fees are also high, so this is something expats will need to budget carefully for. A person is considered a tax resident of Germany if they reside in the country for six consecutive months and will be taxed on their worldwide income. Foreigners are able to drive for up to six months on any foreign or international driver's licence before they're required to apply for a German licence. Get a Quote. Pork features strongly, and is usually served in the form of sausages such as bratwurst and bockwurst. Whether you wish to speak to our sales team or get general help if you are already a Cigna member, we’ll get you to the right information. Taxpayers will also be subject to a solidarity surcharge of 5.5% of taxes paid. Those nationals not on the visa-waiver list will need to apply for a Schengen visa before arriving in the country. [21], [20] https://www.german-way.com/travel-and-tourism/public-transport-in-germany/, [21] https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/transport-and-driving-germany. [17], [17] https://www.greenbacktaxservices.com/blog/american-expats-in-germany-taxes/, Unlike some of its European neighbors, Germany is not typically a retirement destination for expats, although its high standard of living and excellent healthcare infrastructure offers an attractive prospect. Expats will need to get a tax card when they start working in Germany – this is issued by the local council in which an expat is registered. Create a comprehensive expat health insurance plan for living in Germany with Cigna. Anyone planning on living in Germany will also need to apply for a residence permit (Aufaenhait), regardless of their nationality.  220 volts, 50Hz. German cuisine consists of hearty and rich flavors. Enjoy easy access online and via the mobile app. Generally, leases are signed for a year, but it may be possible to negotiate a shorter term, depending on the landlord. Germany’s education system adheres to high standards, but as each state is responsible for setting its own policies and curriculum, expats will find that teaching styles and facilities vary across the country. Popular vegetables include cabbage, turnips, potatoes and beets, which are often served in rich stews and soups. Looking for expat health insurance for Germany? Germany’s reputation for order and precision is certainly no myth and expats can look forward to excellent pubic transport, exemplary healthcare and good-quality schools.  82 million, Emergency number Cigna has its registered office at Avenue de Cortenbergh 52, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. [11], [10] https://www.livescience.com/44007-german-culture.html, [11] https://germanculture.com.ua/german-cuisine/german-food/. Contact Information. Contact Cigna Customer Service at 1 (800) 997-1654 or visit this page to find specific phone numbers for plan and coverage questions or a claims mailing address. : Cigna Inspire Germany is a benefits package specifically created for companies based in Germany with a globally mobile population. Medical staff are well trained and many will be able to speak English. [15], Most expats who move to Germany for work do so as part of an international transfer from their company overseas, and can expect to be well paid. Germany’s public transport is efficient and convenient but it comes at a price. Two types of health insurance exist in Germany: private health insurance through a company, or statutory health insurance provided by the state. A third option would be to purchase a global health insurance plan that will cover you in Germany and throughout the world. Cigna Inspire Germany is a benefits package specifically created for companies based in Germany with a globally mobile population. Cigna Inspire Germany. We want to be your partner for success so your business and people thrive, wherever they are in the world. Cigna Global Health Insurance offers world-class customer service to globally mobile customers. There are plenty of good quality options when it comes to accommodation in Germany. Public schooling is free to all children, including expats, and offers a good option for those with very young children or those planning on making Germany their permanent home. Life (other than GUL), accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and disability plans are insured or administered by Life Insurance Company of North America, except in NY, where insured plans are offered by Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York (New York, NY). Cigna does not control the linked sites' content or links.  GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the end of March to the end of October). This is charged at €105.05 (students under the age of 23) or at €106.93 (students age 23 and above) per month and covers both public healthcare and nursing care insurance.International Students over 30 are eligible to choose between public and private healthcare. For the best experience on Cignaglobalhealth.com, cookies should be enabled. The country is also one of the world’s largest producers of beer and expats will be spoilt for choice in the variety of brews on offer. [13] https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Germany-Mobile-Infrastructure-Broadband-Operators-Statistics-and-Analyses. [13] Expats will find competitive rates for both contract and pay-as-you-go options. There is a range of both local and international banks to choose from, with the leading banks being Deutsche Bank, PostBank and Commerzbank. There are numerous options, including state-sponsored and fully independent schools that follow the local curriculum, as well as schools that offer alternate teaching philosophies, such as Waldorf and Montessori.[4]. Most cafés and restaurants also offer free WiFi. Utilities are not usually included in the monthly rent. [14], [14] https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/keeping-touch-germany, Germany is Europe’s most industrialized nation and home to the world’s fourth largest economy. Cigna International Organisations, Governmental Organisations & Africa . Private German schools are another good option for those wanting their children to fully integrate into the local culture. Keeping each other in check can be seen as a social duty and part of general etiquette in Germany. Cigna Life Insurance Company of Europe S.A.-N.V. ("Cigna"), an insurance company registered in Belgium (under registration number 0421.437.284) with limited liability and authorised under licence number 0938. For the best experience on htmlWebpackPlugin.options. Today, Cigna Corporation and its subsidiaries serve millions of people worldwide through medical, dental, life accident and disability benefit plans and insurance. High-speed InterCity Express trains tend to be more expensive, while regular InterCity trains provide a cheaper alternative.  110 (police), 112 (ambulance). This can be increased with our additional options or decreased to best suit your company’s needs. Expats who plan on hiring a car in Germany should be aware that most cars are manual and requesting an automatic car can be considerably more expensive. People in Germany generally choose to rent rather than buy property. Selecting these links will take you away from Cignaglobal.com. However, not all apartments offer this package and new tenants may need to look for a service provider. Expats are sure to enjoy an excellent quality of life in this formidable European destination. Electricity Learning the German language may be the biggest hurdle, but the German people are generally welcoming to expats, and as long as they respect the rules and those around them. A handshake is the customary greeting in professional contexts. Cigna Life Insurance Company of Europe S.A.-N.V. ("Cigna"), an insurance company registered in Belgium (under registration number 0421.437.284) with limited liability and authorised under licence number 0938. Efficiency is paramount in the workplace, as is punctuality, so there is very little time for small talk as Germans prefer to get straight to the point. Cigna International Health Claims and Phone Numbers. We’ll Inspire you with the flexibility of our health and wellbeing plans. Expats can only take advantage of statutory health insurance if they’re formally employed by a company in Germany. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are easy to find and can be identified by a large red “A” sign. This guide provides a valuable resource for expats moving to Germany and covers all aspects of life there, from its culture and climate to schooling, healthcare and banking systems. The German healthcare system is one of the best in Europe. Assumption of the Virgin Mary – 15 August, [12] https://www.officeholidays.com/countries/germany. Health Insurance in Germany for Expats. They will also need to show that they have adequate financial means to support their stay as well as proof of health insurance. There are reliable internet services across Germany and a vast variety of service providers to choose from, including 1&1, O2 and T-Home. At Cigna Global, we specialize in health insurance policies for expats just like you, ensuring you have the very best of care available to you as and when you need it. In line with this, Germans are very private people and generally prefer to keep a strict separation between their work and home lives. Employers usually share the cost of health insurance with their expat employees and may pay half of the cost per month, regardless of whether the expat has chosen private or statutory health insurance, so it’s important to clarify this when negotiating a work contract. Expats will have access to excellent healthcare in Germany, but it’s compulsory to have some form of health insurance, so this will need to be budgeted for. Pharmacies are usually open during the day, but there will normally be a list in the window of nearby pharmacies that are open afterhours for emergencies. Germans may place great importance on rules and people are expected to follow them. Expats planning on moving to Germany should try to arrange comprehensive health insurance before departing for the country. Germany now has the largest mobile phone market in Europe, which is dominated by Telefónica Germany, Telekom Deutschland and Vodafone Germany. : Life will obviously be more expensive in the major urban centers. Insurance for dental treatment in Germany. Cigna Global Health With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. Another popular choice for expats is bilingual schools, which offer lessons in German as well as another language, such as English or French.  Berlin, Population There are no major health risks for expats traveling to Germany. All foreigners living and working in Germanycan access subsidized state healthcare, but it is mandatory for all residents to have some form of health insurance. I have read and accepted the Personal Information Collection Statement of Cigna. On the whole, dental care in Germany is considered expensive, especially due to the recent cuts in insurance schemes. By submitting this form, I confirm that I agree to Cigna’s use and/or transfer of my personal data for direct marketing purposes, unless otherwise indicated by ticking the box below. Tickets are interchangeable across the different modes of transport and prices vary according to what zone a person travels through.[20]. An everyday guide to expatriate life and work, in Germany. Time zone As with most aspects of life in Germany, the business culture is known to be formal and conservative. However, if you are EU citizen, you can check out public health insurance. Cigna beschäftigt 74.000 Mitarbeiter, die weltweit über 100 Millionen Kunden betreuen. Although expats coming from a Western society are unlikely to suffer any major culture shock, there are aspects of life in Germany that may take some getting used to. In 1792, at a meeting in Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, a group of prominent citizens formed the Insurance Company of North America (INA). Overall the country enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild to cold winters, but it does vary across the terrain, ranging from a maritime climate in the north to a mountain climate in the Alpine regions and parts of the German Uplands. On the other hand, if you are making over that amount, it might be better to get private health insurance from Cigna. Group Universal Life (GUL) insurance plans are insured by CGLIC. INA is the first marine insurance company in the United States, and it remains the nation’s oldest, stockholder-owned insurer. Both high-speed and regular trains connect all major cities and are the most popular means of getting around the country. As well as this, the plan offers a wide range of cost share and deductible options on International Medical Insurance and International Outpatient, allowing you to tailor a plan to suit your budget. Germans value their privacy, so they prefer to keep their personal and professional lives separate. [16], [15] https://www.economywatch.com/world_economy/germany/industry-sector-industries.html, [16] https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/working-germany, Income tax rates in Germany are paid on a progressive scale of 5 to 45% and are automatically deducted from an employee’s paycheck by their employer. As the home of the infamous Oktoberfest and the world’s oldest brewery, it goes without saying that Germany is a beer-drinking nation. The closer one lives to the city center the more they will likely pay, so many expats may choose to seek accommodation in the outlying areas where they will find a better balance between cost and space. There are also opportunities in other major sectors such as IT, engineering, chemistry and physics. As such, the country attracts highly skilled expats within these industries. If a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday becomes a holiday. It’s easy enough to search for property online. A real estate agent may also come in handy, but at a high price; sometimes as much as one month’s rent. These mostly offer reasonable rates and excellent service. We have solutions for both Small/Medium groups with 2-49 expatriate employees and Large groups with 50 or more expatriate employees. The general rule is to at least order a beer, accompanied by the traditional toast, “Prost.”. Rain falls mostly in the summer, but a lightweight raincoat and sweater are good to have on hand all year round. Buses also travel to destinations across Germany, and offer a more cost-effective, albeit slower, option. Life (other than GUL), accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and disability plans are insured or administered by Life Insurance Company of North America, except in NY, where insured plans are offered by Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York (New York, NY). Group Universal Life (GUL) insurance plans are insured by CGLIC. Drive on the  Christianity, Currency There are no specific retirement visas for Germany, and retirees need to secure a residence permit if wanting to settle there. Bei der Auswahl dieser Links verlassen Sie Cignaglobal.com. Aetna International are committed to supporting member health and wellness, no matter where you are in the world. In Europe, Cigna brings together the strength of its 2,700 employees, diverse business lines and financial means to offer best in class products and services to its clients and customers. Cignaglobalhealth.com no longer supports the browser you are using. Money is available in the following denominations: Expats will find it easy to manage their finances in Germany thanks to the country’s sophisticated banking system. Cigna Life Insurance Company of Europe, S.A. - N.V. provides insurance products. These range from furnished apartments and maisonettes to trendy studio apartments, cottages and large family homes. Our large global health care network with round-the-clock access to clinicians, and service commitment means we are there when your employees need us. They’ll also need to make an initial deposit. This option is great for expats or foreigners who would like coverage in Germany, at home, and in any other country in the world. As Germany is a Schengen-member state, nationals of appointed countries can enter for short stays without having to apply for a visa. Two-pin European plugs are standard. : It's compulsory for all residents in Germany to have health insurance, including expats with a residence permit or a fixed-term contract for more than a year. © 2018 Cigna. Group Universal Life (GUL) insurance plans are insured by CGLIC. Cigna is a worldwide health insurance organization that covers individuals, families and employers. [10], Sauerkraut, made from fermented cabbage, is perhaps the most famous of German foods and is often served as a side dish. To secure a property, the tenant will need to put down a security deposit of at least one month's rent, but in some cases, this can be as high as three months' rent. Here are some factors to consider in order to avoid any awkward social blunders: [7] https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/culture-shock-germany, [8] https://www.livescience.com/44007-german-culture.html, [9] https://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/guides/guide-to-germany-etiquette-customs-culture-business/. Thanks to healthy competition between budget airlines, domestic air travel is also a fast and convenient way of transport between the major urban centers. Further from the cities, iconic German fachwerk (half-timbered) houses, cottages, and bauernhauser (farmhouses) are also available. All students under 30 in Germany can take advantage of a special student discounted rate for public health insurance. [18], [18] https://www.expatbriefing.com/country/germany/living/retirement-for-expats-in-germany.html. A long history of serving International Organisations. Create a tailored plan for you and your family today. Although English is widely spoken and commonly used in business at the multinational level, expats shouldn't automatically assume their associates can speak English. [1], While EU nationals are able to seek employment in Germany without a work permit, non-EU nationals who intend to settle and work there will need a work permit (Arbeitserlaubnis). To learn more about health solutions, complete our short contact form. Cigna offers tailored health insurance and employee benefits programmes for IGOs, NGOs, international businesses and their globally mobile employees. Learning to speak German will certainly help when it comes to establishing business relationships. Driving in Germany is easy thanks to the country’s excellent road infrastructure. Request an online quote for international health and our insurance experts will provide a custom pricing for international insurance plans. This website is provided by Cigna European Services (UK) Limited, a company incorporated in England and Wales having its registered address at 13th Floor, 5 Aldermanbury Square, London EC2V 7HR and registered number 00199739. “Cigna®" is a registered service mark of Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc., licensed for use by Cigna Corporation and its subsidiaries. About Cigna. It has been in business for over 30 years. If you are self-employed or retired in Germany, get private health insurance from a provider such as Cigna. These schools predominantly offer the American or British curriculum, and some also offer the International Baccalaureate program. Although the company has now been privatized, and operates under the Deutsche Post DHL Group, there remains very little competition in this area. [2], [2] http://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/germany/visas-germany. With modular, flexible options, our Inspire product range caters for all employee plan needs. Spaces are often limited at bilingual and international schools and parents should plan well in advance if wanting to ensure a spot for their children at the school of their choice. Their multilingual associates are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to help with everything from a … Accordingly, everything has its time and place – when at work they tend to focus on the task at hand rather than making small talk, and they avoid talking extensively about their work at social occasions. Cigna Life Insurance Company of Europe S.A.-N.V. ("Cigna"), an insurance company registered in Belgium (under registration number 0421.437.284) with limited … Expats should make every effort to be on time and let friends or associates know if they’re running late.