Germany is known for its bureaucratic hurdles - a nightmare for many expats who have to deal with a new lifestyle, a foreign language and complicated rules. In the midst of this uncertainty, many English-speaking immigrants look for support from supposedly specialized providers. But what if these providers don't have their customers' best interests at heart?
In this post, we reveal how English-speaking insurance providers and influencers often sell questionable products with hidden costs and minimal benefits as "the best option" - and why it's high time to critically question who you trust.
For expats who have to find their way in a country with a completely different language and culture, trust is essential. English insurance providers know this. They market their products as "specially made for expats" - and often use influencers to convey a seemingly authentic recommendation.
But what is really behind these offers? Let's take the example of Feather, which is often advertised as the best legal protection insurance for expats in Germany. However, a quick search shows that this product is nowhere near as advantageous as it seems.
Here is the updated table with the rows for affiliate commission and price at the top, so that the essential information is directly visible: (
| KS Auxilia (JurPrivat) | Roland basic tariff (without supplement) | Feather Basic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Affiliate commission per subscription | None | None | 69 EUR |
| Monthly contribution | 25.09 EUR | 25.23 EUR | 28.10 EUR |
| Sum insured worldwide | Unlimited | 250,000 EUR | 250,000 EUR |
| Insurance duration outside Europe | 12 months | 12 months | 12 months |
| Bail worldwide | 1,000,000 EUR | 250,000 EUR | 250,000 EUR |
| SB with free choice of lawyer | 300 EUR | 300 EUR | 300 EUR |
| SB with recommended choice of lawyer | 150 EUR | 150 EUR | 150 EUR |
| Mediation (out-of-court arbitration) | EUR 3,000 per procedure | Statutory remuneration according to RVG | Statutory remuneration according to RVG |
| Extended criminal law protection | Yes | Not insured | No insured |
| Waiting period (professional legal protection) | 3 months | 6 months | 6 months |
| Private and owner-occupied properties in Germany | All residential units | Not insured | Not insured |
The core product of Feather basic is the basic tariff of Roland legal expenses insurance. But the name "basic" says it all: it is a minimum level of cover that comes with numerous restrictions.
The main problems:
And all this for €28.10 per month. Sounds cheap at first, but in reality there are far better alternatives for the same price - with more comprehensive benefits and without long waiting times.
Another questionable detail is Feather's opt-in system. Important areas such as housing law or criminal law protection are not automatically included in the insurance - they have to be added separately.
The problem? Many expats don't even know that these options exist or how important they are. As a result, they are left without the necessary protection in the event of an emergency. The price is particularly worrying: if you choose the basic version including additional options, you pay €37.40 per month - almost twice as much as with some premium providers such as ARAG, which offer significantly more comprehensive benefits.
Why is such a limited tariff so heavily advertised? The answer lies in affiliate programs. Providers such as Feather pay influencers up to €69 commission for each brokered contract. This makes the rate the "best option" for influencers - not because it is actually good, but because it is lucrative.
Feather is not the only provider that works with affiliate programs. Others such as Getsafe and Friday also follow a similar model. These insurers often only offer limited tariffs with high prices and questionable additional options.
Expats who want to insure themselves in Germany should not be fooled by language or supposed "expat compatibility". Here are some tips for finding the right insurance:
English-speaking insurance providers in Germany know how to appeal to expats and build trust - unfortunately often to their own advantage. It's important not to blindly trust influencers or advisors, but to do your own research and make informed decisions.
Good legal protection insurance doesn't have to cost €37.40 a month - and it certainly shouldn't only offer important services such as home or criminal law cover as an option. Look for transparency, comprehensive benefits and fair prices. Because in the end, it's not what an influencer tells you that counts, but how well you are really covered.
1. Why are such insurance policies recommended so often?
Because of lucrative affiliate programs that offer influencers high commissions.
2. What is a good alternative for expats in Germany?
ARAG and similar providers offer premium legal protection insurance with better benefits at comparable prices.
3. Does my insurance have to be in English?
No. Most German lawyers speak English, and many insurers offer English customer service.
4. What should I look for in a legal expenses insurance policy?
Short waiting times, low excess and comprehensive benefits are crucial.
5. Can I legally defend myself against incorrect advice?
Yes, but only with insurance brokers, as they are liable. Insurance agents are generally not liable.