German apprentices urged to secure key insurance policies

Consumer groups the Interests Association Money and Consumers (GVI) and the Verbraucherzentrale advise apprentices starting their training or first job to obtain essential insurance coverage. By law, trainees must be enrolled in statutory health insurance, and a supplemental travel health policy is recommended for trips abroad. The organisations also stress the importance of private disability insurance and personal liability insurance, citing examples such as a cyclist colliding with a pedestrian that could generate hundreds of thousands of euros in claims.

For those moving into their own flat, a household contents insurance can protect furniture and belongings against burglary or fire, but it is optional for apprentices still living with parents or sharing a room. The advice emphasizes checking existing family policies to avoid unnecessary duplication.