Health insurance for self-employed and freelancers in Germany
We help you choose the most suitable health insurance if you work as a freelancer or self-employed person in Germany, comparing public and private options. Free advice in your language.
Free comparison · We guide you throughout the entire process
What health insurance do you need as a freelancer in Germany?
If you are self-employed in Germany, the health insurance that best suits your needs is generally private health insurance (PKV). Unlike public insurance, with private cover you only pay for the coverage you actually need, which can represent a significant saving.
For example, if your monthly income is around €2,500, private insurance can be up to €250 cheaper per month than public insurance. What is more, the monthly cost of private insurance does not change based on your income: if your earnings increase, your premium does not.
The right choice depends on your personal situation: type of work, state of health and income. At Bramex we analyse your case individually and give you the most suitable recommendation, completely free of charge.
Advantages of private health insurance for freelancers
A private health insurance policy offers a broader range of benefits, generally at a lower premium, with the ability to adjust your monthly payment based on your needs.
High medical coverage
Wide coverage of medical services and medications, including recognised alternative treatments.
Fast access to specialists
Priority access to GPs and specialists within a few days, with no long waiting lists.
Cost independent of your income
Your monthly premium does not increase if your earnings grow. You pay only for what you actually need.
Income protection during illness
Daily sickness benefit from day 43 of sick leave to compensate for loss of income during a prolonged period off work.
Detailed coverage of the freelancer health insurance
GPs and specialists
- Appointment with GP and specialists within a few days
- Reimbursement of recognised alternative treatment methods
- Second specialist opinion in the case of serious illness
- Treatment at private clinics
- Bramex can book your appointment with the doctor on your behalf
- List of doctors and specialists who speak Spanish and English
- Reimbursement of costs for glasses and contact lenses (subject to plan chosen)
- Medication costs covered
Dental coverage
- 100% coverage for dental treatments
- Preventive cleaning and dental treatment
- Reimbursement of up to 6 implants per jaw
- 90% coverage for dental prostheses and inlays
Public insurance offers only minimal dental coverage. Private insurance is a major advantage in this area.
Hospitals
- 100% coverage for services provided by the head of department
- Hospitalisation in a single or double room (maximum 2 beds)
Legal advice
- Legal advice in cases of suspected medical negligence
Sickness benefit
- In the event of extended sick leave, you receive a daily sickness benefit to compensate for lost income
- The amount depends on what you have agreed with the insurer beforehand
- Activated from day 43 of sick leave
"Do you take something to be happy? Yes — decisions."
Private or public insurance: which is right for you?
The decision depends on your work activity, state of health and income. As a general guide: private insurance is usually more advantageous if your monthly income exceeds €2,500. Below that, it needs to be assessed case by case.
At Bramex we do the comparison for you, free of charge, and explain clearly which is the best option for your specific situation.
Request a free comparisonFrequently asked questions about health insurance for freelancers
What is the most suitable health insurance for a freelancer in Germany?
It depends on your type of work, state of health and income. In general, private insurance is the most common and recommended option for self-employed workers, as it offers better coverage and is usually cheaper than public insurance when income exceeds €2,500/month. At Bramex we analyse your case individually and give you a personalised recommendation.
Can private insurance be cheaper than public insurance for a freelancer?
Yes. In general, private insurance is more affordable if your monthly income exceeds €2,500. With public insurance, the premium is calculated as a percentage of your income, which can make it very expensive if your earnings are high. Private insurance has a fixed premium, regardless of what you earn.
Does the cost of private insurance go up if my income increases?
No. Private health insurance has a fixed premium that does not depend on your income. If your earnings grow, your monthly premium does not increase. This is one of the main advantages over public insurance.
What are the differences between private and public insurance for freelancers?
Private insurance offers significantly broader coverage, especially in the dental sector, access to the latest treatments, much shorter waiting times and access to specialist doctors. Public insurance has more standardised coverage and does not always include the same options.
Am I covered if I am on long-term sick leave?
Yes. Private insurance for freelancers includes the option of taking out a daily sickness benefit. If you are on extended sick leave and, as a self-employed person, stop generating income, the insurer pays you a monthly amount to compensate for that loss. The exact amount depends on what you have agreed with the company beforehand.
Is it possible to switch from one insurer to another?
Yes, it is possible. However, the switch depends on several factors: how long you have been with your current insurer, whether you have agreed special rates, or whether there are specific conditions in your contract. At Bramex we check your situation and advise you on whether a switch is feasible and how to carry it out.
Why manage your insurance with Bramex
We help you choose
We analyse your situation and recommend the most suitable insurance for you as a self-employed person.
No extra costs
Our advice is completely free and does not increase the price of your insurance.
95% of insurers
We work with the leading private insurers in Germany to offer you the best options.
In your language
All management and customer service is conducted in your language. No language barriers.
No bureaucracy
We handle the insurance paperwork for you. The process is fast and straightforward.
Ongoing support
We are by your side before and after sign-up to answer any questions you may have.
Up-to-date information
We keep you informed about news and changes that may affect your coverage.
Proven experience
Years of experience managing insurance in Germany for the Spanish-speaking community.
Are you a freelancer looking for the right health insurance?
Fill in the form and we will send you the best available offers for your situation. We calculate which option is most advantageous for you between public and private insurance.