The insurances most expats in Germany actually need

Germany has an insurance for almost everything, and it is easy to end up over-insured on small things and under-insured on the ones that matter. Here is how to prioritise.

Near-essential

• Health insurance (mandatory): public or private, you cannot live in Germany without it.
• Private liability (Privathaftpflicht): covers the costly everyday accidents, often around €30 to €70 a year, and landlords frequently ask for proof.
• Disability insurance (Berufsunfähigkeit) if you rely on your salary, which is almost everyone. Your ability to earn is usually your biggest asset.

Worth considering

• Household contents (Hausrat) for your belongings, against fire, water and burglary.
• Legal protection (Rechtsschutz) for tenancy, work and contract disputes.
• Term life cover if a partner, children or a mortgage depend on your income.

Usually skippable

• Standalone gadget, phone or extended-warranty policies: the premiums rarely pay off.
• Cover for small items you could comfortably replace from savings.
• Bundled extras a salesperson adds that you did not ask for.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying disability cover late: it gets pricier and harder to qualify for as you age.
• Skipping liability because it feels minor, then paying a five-figure accident yourself.
• Over-insuring cheap, replaceable things while leaving your income unprotected.
• Auto-renewing policies for years without checking the price or the cover.

General information, not advice. Not sure where you stand? Our free insurance-needs check gives you a prioritised list in under a minute.