😷 Sick, Disabled, Sued — or in Legal Trouble? Why Most Expats in Germany Are Financially Exposed
“I have health insurance — I’m covered.”
That’s what many expats in Germany believe. Until something happens.
At German Sherpa, we regularly meet international professionals who are highly skilled, well paid, and fully integrated in Germany — yet shockingly underinsured. The assumption: “Everything is covered automatically.”
But that assumption can cost you everything — your income, your savings, or even your right to stay in Germany.
Let’s talk about real risks — and how to prevent a true financial disaster.
The 4 Real-Life Scenarios Expats Often Overlook
1. Sick – and Suddenly on 70% Income
If you’re ill for more than 6 weeks, your employer stops paying your full salary. You receive “Krankengeld” from your health insurance — about 70% of your income, capped at €120/day gross.
That’s a huge loss for anyone earning over €70,000 per year. And if you’re self-employed, you may get nothing at all.
Solution: Supplemental sick pay insurance (Krankentagegeld) to protect your income beyond the 6-week limit.
2. Disabled – and Unable to Work Again
A serious illness or accident could end your career — permanently. But Germany does not automatically insure your ability to earn money.
Even the small public disability support is hard to access and does not cover your profession — only your ability to work in any job.
Solution: Berufsunfähigkeitsversicherung (BU) — German disability insurance tailored to your job and income level.
3. Sued – and Personally Liable
Germany has no limit on personal liability. If you cause damage — at home, on the street, or even accidentally at work — you pay the full amount, out of your own pocket.
Many expats are shocked to learn they’re not automatically covered by their employer or landlord.
Solution: Personal liability insurance (Privathaftpflicht) — one of the most important and affordable policies in Germany.
4. In Legal Trouble – and No Protection
You have a dispute with your landlord, employer, or neighbor. You need legal advice, but don’t want to pay €200/hour.
Or worse: someone sues you.
In Germany, there is no “free legal support” system like in some countries.
Solution: Legal insurance (Rechtsschutzversicherung) — covers lawyer fees, court costs, and even expert opinions. Especially valuable for expats dealing with employment contracts, immigration issues, traffic law, or tenancy disputes.
What About Your Family?
If you have children or a partner who depends on you financially, what would happen to them if you were gone tomorrow?
Solution: Term life insurance (Risikolebensversicherung) — to secure your family’s future with a guaranteed lump sum payment in case of death.
Why Expats Miss All This
You’re busy. You’re managing work, family, and life in a foreign country. And most insurers don’t explain things clearly — especially not in English.
That’s where German Sherpa steps in.
We offer
- Simple explanations
- English-language support
- Transparent guidance
- No unnecessary upselling
We don’t sell fear. We provide financial confidence.
The 6 Essential Insurances Every Expat in Germany Should Know
Health Insurance (GKV/PKV) – Mandatory, but coverage varies
Disability Insurance (BU) – Replaces income long-term
Supplemental Sick Pay – Fills income gap after 6 weeks
Liability Insurance – Covers damage you cause to others
Life Insurance – Secures your family financially
Legal Insurance – Protects you in disputes, court, legal defense
Depending on your life stage, we may also recommend accident insurance, household contents insurance, private health add-ons, or travel coverage.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Insurance isn’t about paperwork — it’s about your freedom, dignity, and peace of mind if something unexpected happens.
And in Germany, the rules are strict — but the solutions are clear, when someone guides you properly.
Book your free personal insurance check today
👉 Strategy Meeting with Marcel
We’ll help you understand what you need — and what you don’t.
