Provider
Barmenia Weltpolice
Review
Our experience as brokers with Barmenia Gothaer's international health insurance
We have been working with Barmenia for many years – some of us for decades. The Weltpolice is an international health insurance plan at German private health insurance (PKV) level. Here, we share our honest, hands-on assessment.
The Insurer at a Glance
Barmenia is a German private health insurer based in Wuppertal – traditionally strong in corporate business. Following the merger with Gothaer, the company now operates as Barmenia Gothaer. So far, this has had no impact on the international products.
What makes the Weltpolice special: you don't get a classic individual policy. Barmenia works through companies or brokers – and that actually has advantages. Standardised underwriting and lean processes keep prices attractive and the process straightforward.
Our Hands-On Experience
Applications, claims handling, problem-solving – in our experience, Barmenia handles all of this very well. The collaboration is professional and efficient.
One thing you should know: Barmenia doesn't have its own assistance network but partners with International SOS. That's one of the best providers on the market – but it does come with limitations for direct billing.
Direct Billing and Claims
For outpatient treatment, direct billing only kicks in above 2,500 EUR. Below that threshold, you pay upfront and submit receipts – similar to a traditional German private health insurance. Above 2,500 EUR, Barmenia settles directly with the doctor or hospital.
Good to know: Outpatient bills under 2,500 EUR must be paid upfront. For inpatient treatment, direct billing is generally arranged.
Scope of Coverage
The Weltpolice matches a comprehensive German private health insurance plan at a very high level. Inpatient, outpatient, and dental treatments are covered as standard.
| Bereich | Benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Outpatient | Preventive care | 100% no limit |
| Psychotherapy | 100% (approval after 15) | |
| Inpatient | Chief physician & private room | |
| Oncology / cancer treatment | 100% no limit | |
| Maternity | Childbirth & prenatal care | 100% |
| Waiting period | 10 months | |
| Dental | Prosthetics & implants | 80% no cap |
| Service | Direct billing outpatient | from 2,500 EUR |
Key Strengths
- Preventive care without limits – full access to the entire range of check-ups
- Pregnancy and maternity covered very comprehensively
- No plan jungle – no deductible tiers, no plan selection, full transparency
- Dental prosthetics without a cap – reimbursed at 80%, but with no maximum limit
Where There Are Limitations
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Infertility treatment | Limited |
| Hospice care | Limited |
| Dental prosthetics & orthodontics | 80% reimbursement, no cap |
To put dental coverage in context: many providers reimburse at 100% but cap the total amount. With Barmenia, there is no cap – a real advantage for larger treatments.
Our Rating
| Category | Rating | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | 9.5 / 10 | Very strong. For a full 10, dental and infertility coverage would need to be better. |
| Claims Service | 7.5 / 10 | Fast processing. Deduction for the 2,500 EUR direct billing threshold. |
| Contract Service | 10 / 10 | Outstanding. Competent, dedicated contacts. |
| Value for Money | 8.5 / 10 | Currently stable pricing. Group contracts with smaller insured pools may develop differently over time compared to large collectives. |
Not All Weltpolice Plans Are the Same
Different brokers and managing general agents offer the Weltpolice on the market – but with varying terms and conditions. Premiums and benefits can differ depending on the intermediary.
Our tip: Get an individual comparison before you sign up. That's the only way to make sure you're not comparing apples to oranges.
What Does the Gothaer Merger Mean?
Barmenia and Gothaer have merged. Currently, nothing changes for the international products. But as with any merger, the coming years will show whether underwriting policy, claims handling, or strategic direction shifts. We're keeping a close eye on it.
Who Is the Weltpolice Right For?
- You want top-tier benefits – comprehensive coverage without compromise
- You value preventive care – and want to use it without limits
- Families with children – broad coverage for the whole family
- Planning a family or expecting – the Weltpolice is particularly strong here
- Medium to long-term stays abroad – solid protection for extended periods
Is the Weltpolice right for you?
We'll create a personalised comparison for you – free and with no obligation
This article is an independent assessment from a broker's perspective. For individual advice and current conditions, feel free to get in touch.
