Is Allianz the Gold Standard or Just a Big Brand?
Allianz is one of the most recognisable names in the global insurance world. But when it comes to private health insurance in Germany (PKV), does it live up to its name—or are you simply paying for prestige?
In this in-depth Allianz health insurance review for 2025, we explore the full picture: tariffs, digital tools, coverage, benefits, and real-life feedback.
Why This Review Matters in 2025
Choosing a private insurer in Germany is not just a formality—it’s a financial and medical commitment. With rising premiums, expanding digital care, and globalised lifestyles, finding the right provider is more important than ever. Allianz may be the safe bet, but it’s not for everyone.
Allianz at a Glance
Company Overview
Founded in 1890, Allianz is one of the world’s largest insurers with 120+ million customers. In Germany, their PKV arm, Allianz Private Krankenversicherung AG, is known for:
- Financial stability
- Premium pricing
- Global healthcare access
Who Allianz Is For
- High-income employees above the GKV threshold
- Expats needing bilingual, international-friendly support
- Freelancers and business owners
- Families with comprehensive health needs and travel plans
Allianz Health Insurance Products
Core Plans
- BestMed Comfort / Plus: Comprehensive coverage, premium pricing
- AktiMed Start / Plus / Best: Modular, adjustable plans for varying needs
- Allianz Worldwide Care (AWC): Global expat-focused coverage
Add-ons & Riders
- Daily sickness allowance (Krankentagegeld)
- Dental module (including implants and orthodontics)
- Psychotherapy and mental health options
- Maternity packages and children add-ons
- Emergency travel cover & global repatriation
Premiums & Costs
Private health insurance isn’t income-based like GKV. Allianz calculates premiums according to your age, health status, job, and tariff.
Typical premium ranges (2025):
Profile | Allianz PKV Monthly Premium | Notes |
---|---|---|
Young professional (30) | €280–€400 | Depending on deductible and coverage level |
Freelancer (35, high income) | €350–€500 | Often cheaper than GKV at this income |
Family with 2 kids | €700+ | Each member insured separately |
Extra costs to consider:
- Deductibles (Selbstbehalt): lowers monthly premium, but you pay out-of-pocket first (€300–€1,200/year).
- Co-pays for medication, therapy.
- Higher tariffs needed for premium dental or maternity coverage.
💡 Important: While Allianz premiums rise with age, ageing reserves (Alterungsrückstellungen) help stabilise them. Still, long-term costs should be carefully considered.
Claims & Reimbursements
How claims work:
- Submit via app, portal, or by post.
- International claims may require translations or extra documentation.
Processing times:
- Standard claims: 7–14 days.
- Complex claims (dental, hospital): longer.
Expat advantage:
- Allianz is recognised by clinics worldwide, which often makes reimbursement smoother abroad.
- English-language support is available but not always comprehensive.
Why Choose Allianz?
Financial & Brand Trust
Allianz consistently scores high in reliability and solvency, with ratings like:
- Assekurata: A+
- Moody’s: Aa3
Top-Tier Medical Access
- Wide hospital and specialist network
- Private clinic access
- Faster appointments than GKV
Digital Innovation
- Allianz Health App for live chat, claim tracking, e-prescriptions
- Telemedicine (DoctorChat)
- Full ePA (electronic patient file) integration
Allianz Health Insurance Drawbacks
Premium Pricing
- Among the highest in PKV sector
- Often overkill for young or low-use customers
Complex Modular Plans
- Too many tariff options and configurations
- Best approached with a broker or advisor
Partial Transparency
- Lower-tier tariffs may lack full mental or dental coverage
- Hidden limitations in expat/global plans
Real-Life Customer Experiences
Freelancer in Berlin
- 30 y/o male, AktiMed Plus: €600/month
- Received €900 refund for no-claims
- Great digital features and dental coverage
Expat Family in Frankfurt
- Family of 3, BestMed Comfort + travel add-on
- Quick onboarding, excellent English documentation
- Minor reimbursement delays for children’s vaccines
Retired Self-Employed
- 63 y/o, AktiMed Best: €1,450/month
- Happy with care, but rising premiums without employer subsidy
Expert and Broker Insights
What the Experts Say
- Stiftung Warentest: High scores for digital services and outpatient support
- Brokers say Allianz is a top choice for expats, professionals, and digital-first users
When Brokers Caution
- Not ideal for price-sensitive customers
- Complex if switching or downgrading later
Hidden Features & Overlooked Perks
Allianz Global Network
- AWC covers 190+ countries
- Direct billing with international hospitals
- Second opinion services
Corporate Group Plans
- Wellness incentives for staff
- Executive health check-ups and mental support
Prevention Bonuses
- Fitness tracking integration (Garmin, Apple Watch)
- Vaccination and check-up rewards
Unique Use Cases
Digital Nomads & Expats
- Combine EU-based PKV with global coverage
- Allianz’s digital tools work across borders
IVF & Maternity
- IVF partially covered in select plans
- Maternity includes birth classes, hospital upgrades, postnatal physio
Preventive Health Services
- Early cancer screening, heart risk profiling
- Coaching and burnout support in top-tier plans
Common Concerns Answered
“Is Allianz too expensive?”
Yes, but:
- Deductibles and modular downgrades can reduce premiums
- Bonus tariffs help offset costs
“Can I return to GKV later?”
- Only under strict conditions (under 55, income dip, etc.)
- Allianz provides transition support, but approval lies with public funds
“What about mental health?”
- Covered in Best tariffs
- Pre-approvals may be required
- Start plan has limited support unless upgraded
Competitor Comparison
Allianz vs Debeka
- Debeka: More conservative, lower cost
- Allianz: Better digital tools, expat support
Allianz vs Hallesche
- Hallesche: Lower premiums, great alternative medicine
- Allianz: Stronger international presence, broader features
Allianz vs GKV (TK, AOK)
- GKV wins on affordability and dependents
- Allianz wins on dental, therapy access, and wait times
Crucial But Little-Known Facts
Refund Tariffs
- Up to 3 months refunded for no claims
- Must be requested yearly
Internal Capital Reserves
- Allianz stabilises aging premiums with built-up reserves
- Ask about Beitragsrückstellungen
Expat Contract Flexibility
- Can pause or switch to expat coverage when relocating
- Re-entry rules vary
Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid
Bigger = Better
- Smaller PKVs may offer more personalised service
- Allianz wins in consistency and tech, not necessarily care quality
All PKVs Are the Same
- Coverage varies drastically in mental health, dental, global care
- Allianz excels in international mobility
Skipping a Broker
- Many tariffs aren’t well-documented publicly
- Advisors can help tailor coverage and avoid overpaying
Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Allianz offers premium PKV ideal for expats, digital workers, and high-income earners
- Coverage is extensive, but costs can be high
- Digital tools and international reach are key differentiators
Action Steps
- Compare Allianz tariffs with at least 2 other PKVs
- Use a certified broker to customise your plan
- Ask about refund bonuses and maternity/mental health support