Definition of voluntary health insurance Germany
Voluntary health insurance Germany (freiwillige Versicherung) covers members of a statutory health insurer who are neither compulsorily nor family insured. After student insurance ends, this usually happens automatically through follow-on insurance (Anschlussversicherung). Your contribution follows your economic ability, but it is at least based on the minimum contribution base.
Value (as of 20 October 2026)
| Figure | Value | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum contribution base 2026 | 1,318.33 euros a month | official, calculated as one third of the reference figure |
| Minimum contribution for health insurance 2026 | 222.80 euros a month | calculated |
| Minimum contribution for health and long-term care insurance without childless surcharge | 270.26 euros a month | calculated |
Example
You are 31, no longer enrolled and have 400 euros of income. The insurer still uses at least 1,318.33 euros. At 14.0 percent plus 2.9 percent additional contribution, you pay 222.80 euros for health insurance, plus long-term care insurance.
Without entitlement to sickness benefit (Krankengeld), the reduced rate of 14.0 percent applies (section 243 SGB V); otherwise, the rate is 14.6 percent. For former students without employment, the reduced rate applies.
Related terms
Follow-on insurance (Anschlussversicherung), minimum contribution base, contribution assessment base (Beitragsbemessungsgrundlage), private health insurance (PKV).
Further articles
- Health insurance as a student over 30: obligations, costs and routes (in German)
- Health insurance after your studies without a job (in German)
Sources
GKV-Spitzenverband, fact sheet on contribution calculation figures 2026, Techniker Krankenkasse, minimum limit for contribution calculation (cross-check). As of 20 October 2026.
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice. The German version is authoritative.
Editorial team: Academycon
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