Reviewed by our Expat experts
Last reviewed: March 2026
PKV for Freelancers & Self-Employed
Special considerations for self-employed expats choosing private health insurance in Germany.
Why PKV Is Popular with Freelancers
As a freelancer in Germany, health insurance is mandatory — but you have a unique advantage: there is no income threshold for self-employed individuals to join PKV. Whether you earn €30,000 or €300,000, you can choose private insurance.
This is particularly significant because GKV premiums for freelancers are calculated on your full income (no employer share), making public insurance significantly more expensive for self-employed professionals.
PKV vs GKV Cost Comparison for Freelancers
The cost difference is dramatic for freelancers because you pay the full premium yourself:
- GKV: ~14.6% of gross income + supplementary contribution (~1.7%). For a freelancer earning €80,000/year, that's approximately €1,080/month.
- PKV: A comprehensive plan for a healthy 30-35 year old typically costs €400-600/month, regardless of income.
That's a potential savings of €5,000-8,000 per year.
The Freelancer Advantage
Unlike employees, freelancers pay 100% of their insurance premium themselves. But since PKV premiums are income-independent, high earners save the most. The higher your income, the greater the savings compared to GKV.
Key Considerations for Freelancers
No Employer Contribution
As a freelancer, you pay your entire PKV premium yourself. There's no employer subsidy (Arbeitgeberzuschuss). However, your premiums are tax-deductible as business expenses, which significantly reduces your effective cost.
Income Fluctuations
One of PKV's biggest advantages for freelancers: your premium stays the same regardless of how your income fluctuates. In GKV, a great year means higher contributions. In PKV, you pay the same fixed premium whether you earn €50k or €150k.
Krankentagegeld (Sick Pay Insurance)
As a freelancer, you don't get employer-paid sick leave. Add Krankentagegeld to your PKV plan — it provides daily income replacement if you're unable to work due to illness. Typical waiting period: 42 days (aligning with when GKV sick pay would start for employees).
Returning to Employment
If you later take an employed position earning above the threshold, your employer will start contributing to your PKV premium. If you earn below the threshold, you'll need to switch back to GKV (which can actually be an advantage if your situation changes).
Smart Strategies for Freelancers
- Start early: The younger you are when you join, the lower your lifetime premiums.
- Choose a meaningful deductible: A €600-1,200 annual deductible can reduce your premium by €100-200/month.
- Prioritize aging provisions: Since you don't have an employer subsidy, strong aging provisions are even more critical for keeping premiums manageable in retirement.
- Maximize tax deductions: Work with a Steuerberater (tax advisor) to ensure you're deducting your full premium as a business expense.
- Consider the no-claims bonus: Many PKV plans refund 1-6 months of premiums if you don't file claims. Build an emergency fund and only claim for larger expenses.
Required Documents for Freelancers
- Freelance registration (Gewerbeanmeldung or Finanzamt confirmation)
- Tax returns from previous years (if available)
- Current income documentation
- Valid passport or ID
- German registration certificate (Anmeldung)