Arbeit: Scheinselbstständigkeit bedroht Freelancer – und bremst die Wirtschaft

Düsseldorf - Freelance worker Chris Brow has been facing uncertainty for the past two years. For the past 19 years, Brow has been self-employed, working at various events, in film productions, and as a singer, with dozens of clients each year. However, when he sought clarification on his status for a specific job, the results were concerning.

The insurance for his retirement was classified as "dependent employment." The issue is that Brow has to be present at a specific time and location for the filming, which was classified as "commissioned work." Anyone who follows the instructions of an employer, works at specified locations by the employer, can be considered "scheinselbstständig" or "apparent self-employed."

Brow has appealed the decision. "I am self-employed," he insists, calling the procedure absurd, time-consuming, and costly. "I am playing by the rules," he emphasizes. He can provide evidence of his multiple clients and proof of his long-term planning for retirement. "It feels more like a means to fill coffers," he says. "It feels like it's about filling the coffers rather than protection."

Brow is concerned about the pension fund and other social insurance contributions, which are different for employees compared to freelancers. His case is ongoing, having been initiated in November 2025.