Private Health Insurance for Employees in Germany
Whether switching to PHI pays off depends on your income, age and desired benefits. Independent, English-speaking assessment for international professionals in Germany.
Independent advice
No ties to any insurer.
Personal contact
One advisor – start to finish.
Digital worldwide
Video or phone consultation.
Switch or new policy
We guide you the entire way.
Not sure if PHI fits your situation?
Take the free 2-minute PHI Check — independent, non-binding and in English.
Who can join private health insurance as an employee in Germany?
Employees in Germany can switch to private health insurance (PHI, private Krankenversicherung) once their regular gross salary exceeds the German compulsory insurance threshold (JAEG). In 2026 this threshold is €77,400 gross per year. International professionals — including Blue Card EU holders and skilled worker visa holders — qualify on the same rules once their employment contract exceeds the threshold.
How the employer contribution works
Your employer pays the same contribution to your PHI premium that they would pay for statutory health insurance — up to the statutory maximum. In practice this often covers around 50% of your monthly PHI premium.
Benefits of private health insurance for employees
- Individually selectable benefits — chief physician, single hospital room, dental.
- Faster access to specialists and English-speaking doctors.
- Premium refunds when no claims are submitted.
- Comprehensive worldwide travel cover included in most tariffs.
- Stable long-term cover with legally required ageing reserves.
What to watch out for
Switching to PHI is a long-term decision. Premium stability, ageing reserves and family planning matter as much as the initial benefits. We assess the insurer's financial strength, actuarial basis and long-term premium trend — not just the entry price.
Special cases for international employees
- Blue Card EU holders — you qualify for PHI as soon as your salary is above the JAEG threshold; the Blue Card salary floor is typically higher.
- Posted workers and expatriates — special tariffs exist for limited stays in Germany.
- Returning German residents — an Anwartschaft (entitlement) before leaving keeps your right to re-enter PHI.
How our consultation works
- Free, non-binding 2-minute PHI Check.
- English-speaking video or phone consultation.
- Independent comparison of 40+ German PHI insurers.
- Full paperwork support with your employer and the insurer.
Related pages
- PHI for expats in Germany
- German visa health insurance
- PHI for freelancers
- Tariff switch under § 204 VVG
- PHI in retirement
Ready to compare? Start the free 2-minute PHI Check or book a free consultation with an English-speaking advisor.
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