What does a Virtual CISO cost? Pricing, models, and comparison 2026
The cyber threat landscape is intensifying. At the same time, Germany is missing tens of thousands of IT security professionals. Many mid-sized companies face the question: How do we get strategic cybersecurity expertise at the leadership level without filling a full-time position we may not be able to afford or find candidates for?
The answer is increasingly: Virtual CISO (vCISO). But what does such an external security leader actually cost? This article provides a transparent overview of pricing models, realistic cost ranges, and a comparison with the internal alternative.
What exactly is a Virtual CISO?
A Virtual CISO is an experienced cybersecurity expert who assumes strategic security responsibility for a company without being permanently employed. They typically work remotely and on a part-time basis. Their tasks include:
- Developing and managing cybersecurity strategy
- Risk assessment and risk management
- Building and maintaining an Information Security Management System (ISMS)
- Supporting compliance requirements such as NIS2, ISO 27001, or DORA
- Advising executive management on security investments
- Managing security incidents and incident response
The three common pricing models
1. Monthly retainer (most common)
The retainer model is the standard for vCISO engagements. Companies book a fixed allocation of consulting days or hours per month. In Germany, costs typically range as follows:
Basic (2 days/month): EUR 2,400 to 3,600 monthly. Includes strategic consulting, quarterly risk analysis, and policy reviews.
Standard (3-4 days/month): EUR 3,600 to 6,000 monthly. All basic services plus ISMS management, compliance support, and board reporting.
Premium (5-8 days/month): EUR 6,000 to 12,000 monthly. Full CISO function including vendor management, incident response, and audit support.
2. Hourly rate
For project-based or ad-hoc consulting, hourly billing is common. In Germany, rates for qualified vCISOs range from EUR 150 to 300 per hour, depending on experience, industry specialization, and certifications.
3. Project-based
For clearly defined projects such as gap analyses, cybersecurity assessments, or ISO 27001 certification preparation, some providers offer fixed pricing. Ranges from EUR 15,000 for a compact assessment to EUR 80,000 for comprehensive transformation projects.
Cost comparison: vCISO vs. internal CISO
The cost difference compared to internal hiring is significant. A full-time internal CISO costs between EUR 135,000 and 250,000 per year including base salary (EUR 100,000 to 180,000), social costs (approx. 30 percent), training, and recruiting costs. A Virtual CISO costs EUR 30,000 to 100,000 annually. Typical savings: 50 to 75 percent.
This does not yet account for the fact that a vCISO provider typically has access to a broader team and can draw on specialists for specific issues.
What influences the price?
Not every vCISO engagement costs the same. The key price drivers are:
- Industry and regulation: Companies in highly regulated industries (financial sector, healthcare, critical infrastructure) require more compliance work.
- Company size: More employees, locations, and IT systems mean a more complex scope.
- IT security maturity: Companies starting from scratch need more initial effort than those evolving an existing ISMS.
- NIS2 applicability: Since December 2025, the NIS2 Implementation Act is in force. Affected companies have additional documentation and reporting obligations.
- vCISO experience: A former DAX company CISO with 20 years of experience naturally commands higher rates than a senior consultant with five years.
When is a Virtual CISO particularly worthwhile?
A vCISO is especially valuable for:
- Mid-sized companies (50-500 employees) that must meet regulatory cybersecurity requirements for the first time due to NIS2
- Growth companies that want to professionalize their security strategy before investing in a full-time CISO
- Companies in M&A processes that need cybersecurity due diligence or must harmonize security posture after an acquisition
- Organizations under compliance pressure, whether from ISO 27001, DORA, the EU AI Act, or industry-specific requirements
What to look for when choosing a vCISO
- Proven experience: Certifications (CISSP, CISM, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor), references, and industry expertise are crucial.
- Clear scope of services: What exactly is included in the retainer? How are additional services billed?
- Strategic approach: A good vCISO thinks beyond technology and understands your business model and risk landscape.
- Availability: How quickly is the vCISO available in an emergency? Is there a backup team?
- Cultural fit: The vCISO must be able to communicate at eye level with your executive team.
Conclusion: Strategic security does not have to be expensive
A Virtual CISO offers mid-sized companies the opportunity to establish a strategic cybersecurity function that would otherwise be reserved for large corporations. With annual costs between EUR 30,000 and 100,000, the investment is significantly below internal hiring, while offering high flexibility and broad expertise.
Given the NIS2 requirements in force since December 2025 and the ever-growing threat landscape, a vCISO is not only the more economical but also the faster available solution for many companies.
Looking for an experienced Virtual CISO for your company? Cybervize offers tailored vCISO services for the German mid-market. Learn more