Skip to content
Emergency

Medical repatriation from abroad: who pays?

A medically necessary repatriation from abroad can become very expensive. Statutory health insurance generally does not cover it. What matters is the travel health insurance, and how its clause is worded.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

Enforce your claim →

Your chances of getting your money back

Statutory health insurance generally does not pay for repatriation from abroad. Travel health insurance, on the other hand, often covers it, provided the conditions are met.
Pay attention to the wording: tariffs that cover the 'medically sensible and reasonable' repatriation are better than those that only pay for the 'medically necessary' transport. The latter refuse more often.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check your insurance

    Look into whether your travel health insurance covers the repatriation.

  2. 2

    2. Use the emergency number

    In an emergency, contact the insurer's emergency hotline before the transport.

  3. 3

    3. Secure certificates

    Secure medical certificates on the necessity of the repatriation.

  4. 4

    4. Pursue reimbursement

    Submit receipts and object to an unjustified refusal.

How to spot the scam

  • The tariff only pays for the 'medically necessary' repatriation.
  • The transport is arranged without consulting the emergency hotline.
  • Certificates on the necessity are missing.

Frequently asked questions

Does the statutory fund pay for the repatriation?

As a rule, no. Statutory health insurance generally does not cover a medical repatriation from abroad. Private travel health insurance is intended for this, covering such costs depending on the tariff.

What do I need to watch for in the tariff?

The wording of the repatriation clause. Tariffs that cover the 'medically sensible and reasonable' repatriation are more favorable for you than those that only pay for the 'medically necessary' transport, because the latter are interpreted more strictly.

What must I do in an emergency?

If possible, contact your insurer's emergency hotline before a repatriation is arranged and follow their instructions. Secure medical certificates on the necessity. This way you avoid disputes over reimbursement and can challenge a refusal if needed.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

Enforce your claimCheck a suspicious message
More help: Emergency by phone · Act together · Right to a lawyer · All guides

General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.