The moving container is booked, the flight is set – and the insurance folders? When emigrating, the relocation of your residence decides which contracts continue, rest or end. The private liability policy, as your most important basic protection, deserves particular attention. Germany's insurance density is high – GDV Director General Jörg Asmussen notes: "Citizens are protecting themselves more comprehensively against everyday and existential risks" (source: handelsblatt.com, translated). To keep it that way after you leave, here is your roadmap.
Most private liability policies are tied to a residence in Germany. With a permanent move abroad, many contracts end automatically or after transition periods (often at the end of the insurance period). The principle of insured interest also matters: under Section 80 VVG, you are not obliged to pay premiums "if the insured interest does not exist at the start of the insurance" (source: gesetze-im-internet.de, translated) – conversely, a contract without a German connecting point can simply run into a void: you pay, but you are not effectively protected in your new country of residence.
Some premium policies continue to cover you even after relocation – often unlimited within Europe, several years worldwide. Ideal for workation, postings and emigrants in the transition phase. Before your move, we check whether your contract allows this or whether switching makes sense.
With permanent emigration, a liability policy in your country of residence is usually the cleanest solution in the medium term – in some countries (e.g. France for tenants) it is even mandatory, in others unusual. We help with transition planning so no gap arises.
For fixed-term stays abroad with a planned return, the contract can sometimes be suspended or continued with a foreign clause – avoiding a new contract on worse terms.
Inform insurers in writing of your departure date · check liability for worldwide validity · clarify health insurance (entitlement option for your return!) · arrange household contents cover for removal goods and interim storage · de-register or re-register your car · check legal protection for suitability abroad (see Legal Protection Without German Residence) · switch premium payments to a foreign account.
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Yes, relocating your residence is a notifiable change of risk. Concealing it risks disputes over coverage in the event of a claim.
Often the contract ends anyway with the loss of insured interest; otherwise the normal notice periods apply. We check your policy terms and draft the letters for you.
As long as the family policy is attached to your contract, your departure can jeopardise the family's coverage. Transferring the contract to the partner staying in Germany is often the solution – more in the guide Family Coverage.
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Sources: Handelsblatt: "Neue Studie zeigt, wie die Deutschen versichert sind" (quote Jörg Asmussen, GDV) · Section 80 VVG – Absence of insured interest, gesetze-im-internet.de · Updated: 2026
