Health insurance for international freelancers in Germany
Self-employed status unlocks private cover regardless of income. Most international freelancers default into private without realising the long-term trade-off.
What international freelancers should know
You qualify for either system
Self-employed status alone qualifies for private — no income threshold to clear.
English-friendly providers
Ottonova, DKV and Allianz all offer English contracts and onboarding for freelancers.
Family is not free in private
If a non-working spouse joins you, public family insurance covers them free. Private = a separate premium per person.
Returning home complicates things
If you may move back to your home country, ask each insurer about Anwartschaft (pause cover at low cost) before signing.
Common questions
Related guides
Two more pages that come up most often when people are at this stage.
Full freelancer guide
Long-form guide for self-employed clients.
Learn moreNewcomer essentials
First-90-days insurance setup for international residents.
Learn moreTravel insurance
Short-term cover for visitors.
Learn moreTemporary cover
Bridging cover between plans.
Learn moreFor newcomers
Health insurance basics for new arrivals.
Learn more