What are the income thresholds to join private health insurance in Germany?
Starting January 1, 2026, the income requirements to qualify for private health insurance are:
Employees must earn more than €77,400 per year.
Freelancers under the age of 51 must earn more than €36,000 per year.
Freelancers aged 51 or older must earn more than €51,000 per year.
If a person is employed outside of Germany, they are considered a freelancer for these thresholds.
What is the employer contribution towards private health insurance in Germany?
German employers contribute up to 50% of an employee's monthly health and nursing care insurance costs, including coverage for dependents. The maximum employer contribution is capped at €613,22 per month, which breaks down as:
Up to €508.59 per month for private health insurance.
Up to €104.63 per month for nursing care insurance.