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Get a Pflegegrad

Selected criteria

  1. I already live in Germany
  2. Health and insurance
  3. Get a Pflegegrad

If you or someone close to you needs regular help in everyday life, start by understanding how Pflegeversicherung works and how to apply for a Pflegegrad. First gather information about the help needed at home, with treatment, mobility and organising the day. Then contact the Pflegekasse to start the assessment process. Once a decision is issued, compare it with the actual limitations and determine which care arrangement is suitable: help from relatives, an outpatient care service or another option. If there is also a long-term illness or disability, look into the GdB process separately: it is a different status and requires a separate application. For benefits, medical documents and individual rights, it is helpful to check the current conditions with the insurance fund or a specialist.

Plan overview

From preparing a Pflegegrad application to checking the decision and choosing care support.

What to do step by step

  1. 1

    Describe the care needs

    Record which everyday activities require regular help to prepare for the independence assessment.

    Articles for this step

    Long-Term Care Insurance in Germany: Mandatory Coverage, Contributions, and Benefits
  2. 2

    Apply to the Pflegekasse

    Contact the Pflegekasse and start the process of obtaining a Pflegegrad.

    Articles for this step

    Long-Term Care Insurance in Germany: Mandatory Coverage, Contributions, and Benefits
  3. 3

    Prepare for the assessment

    Relate your situation to the areas used to assess limitations in independence.

    Articles for this step

    Long-Term Care Insurance in Germany: Mandatory Coverage, Contributions, and Benefits
  4. 4

    Check disability status separately

    If there are long-term limitations, review the separate GdB process and required medical documents.

    Articles for this step

    Disability in Germany: GdB, Schwerbehindertenausweis, Benefits, and the Application Process

Important notes

  • You need to apply to the Pflegekasse to receive benefits.
  • The authority does not assign the status automatically just because a diagnosis already exists in another country.

Common mistakes

  • Confuse different procedures