Legal Protection Insurance for Expats in Germany: Influencer

In this blog, we take a closer look at how affiliate marketing is being used in the insurance industry and highlight what expats should consider to make the best decisions.

The Problem with Influencer Recommendations: Affiliate Links Over Genuine Advice

More and more influencers in Germany are targeting expats with their content. On platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, many of these individuals present themselves as insurance experts, recommending products such as legal protection insurance. Sounds helpful, right? Unfortunately, these recommendations are often driven not by your best interests but by which insurance companies pay commissions.

Feather vs. Getsafe: An Example of Superficial Comparisons

A common example is the comparison of providers like Feather and Getsafe, which are often promoted as the best options for expats. What many don’t realize is that both providers use policies from Roland Insurance—often the exact same ones. So why the recommendations? Feather and Getsafe offer affiliate programs, allowing influencers to earn money.

What these comparisons often omit are critical details that could be problematic for expats, such as:

• Deductibles: Many policies include deductibles that can increase or decrease annually.
• Waiting Periods: Particularly in labor law—one of the most common issues for expats—there can be waiting periods of up to six months before coverage applies.
  
  
  Waiting Period feather
  
  
  Waiting Period Adam Riese
  
  
  
  Comparison of SimpleGermany

These details are often either not mentioned or deliberately downplayed by influencers to drive sign-ups through their affiliate links.

“English Support”: An Empty Promise?

Another common selling point is that providers like Feather or Getsafe offer English-language support. This sounds appealing to expats who struggle with German. However, here’s the catch:

German insurance companies are legally required to handle all significant processes and communications in German. This is often stipulated in the policy terms—for example, in §13 of Roland Insurance’s terms and conditions. Legal consultations in English are therefore simply not possible.

In reality, the English-language support provided by Feather or Getsafe is typically limited to general inquiries. When it comes to legal matters, policyholders must rely on German—a major hurdle for many expats.

Superficial Comparisons Lead to Poor Decisions

The so-called expert comparisons online are often shockingly superficial. While independent insurance brokers consider all available providers and recommend policies tailored to individual needs, influencers focus solely on companies that pay commissions.

What these comparisons often ignore:

• Alternative Providers: Many other German insurers may offer better or cheaper policies for expats but don’t have affiliate programs.
• Individual Needs: Not all expats have the same requirements. A family may need a different type of legal protection than a single person.
• Long-Term Costs: Policies that appear affordable at first glance can become expensive over time due to rising deductibles or limited coverage.

What Should Expats Look for in Legal Protection Insurance?

If you’re looking for legal protection insurance in Germany, here are some key points to consider:

1. Independent Advice
   Don’t blindly trust influencer recommendations. Instead, seek out an independent insurance broker specializing in expat needs.

2. Review Policy Terms
   Carefully read the terms and conditions, especially regarding deductibles, waiting periods, and covered areas of law.

3. Consider German Proficiency
   Remember that most legal processes in Germany are conducted in German. Invest in translation services or language courses if necessary to navigate these challenges.

4. Compare Long-Term Costs
   Don’t just focus on the monthly premium; also consider hidden costs like deductibles or increasing premiums.

Conclusion: Be Cautious with Influencer Recommendations

The growing number of influencers targeting expats in Germany may appear helpful at first glance. However, their recommendations often prioritize their own financial interests over your actual needs.

When it comes to legal protection insurance, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and not rely solely on superficial comparisons. Look for policies with a suitable self-contribution, the freedom to choose your lawyer, and short waiting periods. This way, you can ensure access to an English-speaking lawyer as soon as possible, with minimal out-of-pocket costs. By carefully evaluating providers and policies, you can avoid costly mistakes and secure coverage that genuinely meets your needs.