If you are coming to Germany to work as a freelancer, you might have already done some research, and are aware that different rules apply than for regular employees. Freelancers are not mandatory insured, and, therefore, can have a hard time accessing the public health insurance system. In this article we are going to go through the various options, and briefly explain why one might be better than the other.

Due to social security agreements between the above listed countries, you have a few options at your disposal:

1. Sign up for public health insurance as a voluntary member: If you are moving your permanent residence to Germany and are going to register your freelancing activity here, you can access the public health system. Once you submit the application, we will get in touch regarding any further information needed. This whole process has been eased with the rollout of the EESSI. The public insurance contribution for freelancers is set to around 19% regardless of the provider. Public insurance allows for a free coverage of dependents. You must sign up for public insurance within 3 months of ending your home insurance. If your home insurance ended longer than 3 months ago, you are not eligible for voluntary public insurance in Germany.

2. Stay on your home insurance: If your permanent residence, as well as focus of business activities is still in your home country, your stay in Germany would then be considered as temporary, and you can remain on your home insurance for a maximum duration of 2 years. You would have to request an A1 and S1 form from your home insurance provider. This will not be an option if you registered your freelancing activity in Germany, and are working for clients here.

3. Sign up for comprehensive private insurance: The comprehensive private insurance contribution is set individually according to two factors: age and health. If those two go into your advantage, private insurance could be more affordable than public. Have in mind that adding dependents to a private policy will come at a full price for each dependent. Signing up for private insurance will only be possible if you are making more than €30,000 gross yearly.

4. Sign up for our short-term expat health insurance: If none of the aforementioned options suit your needs, expat health insurance is worth looking into. Even though it is more affordable than public or comprehensive private insurance, keep in mind that it is a temporary solution, and provides limited coverage.

5. If you are an artist, or fall into one of these professions, you can sign up for public health insurance as a KSK member.

1. Sign up for comprehensive private insurance: As stated above ⬆️

2. Sign up for our short-term expat health insurance: If your earnings are under the private threshold (€30,000 gross yearly), expat health insurance is a great option. It is the most affordable solution, and allows for the first time visa application.

3. Signup for our long-term expat health insurance: if the immigration office does not find short-term insurances sufficient, or you would like to enjoy broader coverage, it might be worth looking into this option.

4. If you are an artist, or fall into one of these professions, you can sign up for public health insurance as a KSK member.

5. Join a cooperative for freelancers: You will be employed by the cooperative – full or part-time, with a mini-job or subject to social security contributions. As your employer, the cooperative handles the punctual payment of your monthly salary and the deduction of social security contributions and income tax.

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