Freiwillig versichert translates to “voluntarily insured” in English. It refers to individuals in Germany who choose to have health insurance coverage beyond the mandatory or compulsory insurance.
What is “freiwillig versichert”?
In Germany, health insurance is mandatory for all residents, but there is an option for individuals to be “freiwillig versichert” or voluntarily insured. This option is available to freelancers, students over a certain age, employees earning above a specific income threshold (€66,600 as of the source), and others who do not automatically fall under the compulsory health insurance scheme. Voluntarily insured individuals can choose between statutory (public) health insurance providers or opt for private health insurance, offering them flexibility in their coverage options[2].
More information about “freiwillig versichert”
The choice to be voluntarily insured allows individuals to tailor their health insurance coverage according to their needs and financial situation. For example, voluntarily insured members in the statutory health insurance system can select optional tariffs for additional benefits, similar to those offered by private health insurance, such as supplemental dental insurance. The contributions for voluntarily insured members are income-based, with specific rates for students and self-employed individuals, ensuring that the insurance remains affordable across different income levels[1].
Related to “freiwillig versichert”
Here are some additional terms that are related to “freiwillig versichert”:
- Gesetzliche KrankenversicherungThe "gesetzliche Krankenversicherung" translates to "statutory health insurance" in English. It is a fundamental part of Germany's healthcare system, providing... More (GKV): The statutory health insurance system in Germany, offering coverage to the majority of the population.
- Private KrankenversicherungPrivate Krankenversicherung (PKV) translates to "private health insurance" in English. It is an alternative to the statutory or public health... More (PKV): Private health insurance, an alternative to the statutory system, often chosen by those who are “freiwillig versichert”.
- PflichtversichertThe term "Pflichtversicherung" translates to "compulsory insurance" in English. What is "Pflichtversicherung"? "Pflichtversicherung" refers to insurance that individuals are legally... More: Refers to individuals who are compulsorily insured under the statutory health insurance system due to their employment status or income level[7].
Choosing to be “freiwillig versichert” provides individuals with the flexibility to select the health insurance coverage that best suits their needs, whether through the statutory system or private providers.