High earner choosing private insurance (PKV)
Who it is for: You earn above the compulsory-insurance threshold and are weighing private cover.
Above the annual threshold (Versicherungspflichtgrenze, ~€73,800 in 2025; confirm 2026) employees may opt out of public insurance into private. Premiums depend on age/health, not income — attractive when young and single, riskier long-term and for families.
Your options
Digital private insurers (e.g. ottonova)
App-first PKV with English service — popular with internationals. Compare tariffs and lock in benefits carefully.
Typical cost: Highly individual: often €400–700/month for comprehensive cover; employer pays a subsidy up to half the GKV maximum.
Our take
Only switch to private if you understand it's hard to return to public later, and model the premium in your 60s. Families often do better in public insurance.
Frequently asked questions
What's the income threshold to go private?
You must earn above the annual Versicherungspflichtgrenze (a separate, higher figure than the contribution ceiling). Confirm the current 2026 value before deciding — this is a 'verify' item on our list.
Can I go back to public insurance?
Rarely, once you're 55+. Returning is generally only possible by dropping below the threshold as an employee before that age. Treat PKV as a long-term commitment.
Last verified: 21 July 2026