Private Health Insurance for Freelancers in Germany
Freelancers and the self-employed have a free choice between statutory and private health insurance in Germany — regardless of income. We help you pick the right tariff, independently and in English.
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.
Free choice for freelancers and the self-employed
Unlike employees, freelancers and self-employed professionals in Germany are not subject to compulsory statutory insurance. You can decide freely between statutory health insurance (GKV) and private health insurance (PHI) — regardless of income. For most freelancers below age 45 with stable income, PHI offers stronger benefits at a lower monthly premium.
What really matters in freelancer PHI
- Premium stability — not just a low entry price.
- Financial strength of the insurer and solid actuarial basis.
- Sick pay insurance (Krankentagegeld) — see our sick pay page.
- Premium relief for retirement — see Beitragsentlastungstarif.
- Visa compatibility for freelancer visa (§ 21 AufenthG).
Freelancer visa in Germany and health insurance
If you apply for the German freelancer visa (§ 21 AufenthG) or the self-employed visa (§ 21 AufenthG for entrepreneurs), the consulate and the Ausländerbehörde require proof of adequate health insurance. Private health insurance is accepted if the tariff is unlimited and covers inpatient and outpatient treatment. See the full German visa health insurance requirements.
Digital nomads and remote freelancers
If you split your time between Germany and abroad, a PHI tariff with unlimited worldwide cover — and specific "extended stay abroad" clauses — can be a strong fit. We compare tariffs that stay valid even during longer trips outside Germany.
How our consultation works
- Free 2-minute PHI Check.
- English-speaking video or phone consultation.
- Independent comparison of 40+ German PHI insurers.
- Application, paperwork and Ausländerbehörde support.
Related pages
- PHI for expats in Germany
- Health insurance for German visas
- Family reunification
- Sick pay insurance
- PHI tariff switch
- PHI for civil servants (Beamte)
Start the free 2-minute PHI Check or book a free consultation in English.
Find Out in 2 Minutes If Private Health Insurance Fits You
Free, independent, and fully in English. See your options with no strings attached.
Independent comparison of leading insurers
