If you have worked in Germany and contributed to the statutory pension system, you might be wondering whether you can get those contributions back. For many, leaving Germany means they will not retire there, so reclaiming contributions can make a big financial difference. Fortunately, there are easy steps for germany pension refund that you can follow to check your eligibility and submit your application successfully.
Who сan сlaim a German pension refund?
The German pension system is designed for long-term contributors who plan to retire in Germany or the EU. However, if you have permanently left Germany and do not meet the requirements for a German pension, you might be entitled to a refund of your contributions. The eligibility criteria depend on your nationality and how long you have paid into the system.
Non-EU citizens
- Minimum waiting period: You must wait at least 24 months after your last contribution before applying.
- Permanent departure: You need to leave Germany and reside outside the EU and UK.
- Contribution period: Anyone who has worked in Germany for 60 months (five years) automatically qualifies for a German retirement pension. For most nationalities, this does not prevent you from claiming a refund—you can still request a payout even though a pension entitlement exists. However, for citizens of specific countries (USA, India, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Albania, Moldova, North Macedonia, the Philippines, South Korea, and Uruguay), the situation is different: once the 60-month threshold is reached, a refund is no longer possible, because the pension entitlement replaces the refund option.
EU/EEA/UK and Swiss citizens
- People from the EU/EEA/UK/Switzerland cannot claim a German pension refund. Instead they have to wait to reach the German retirement age and apply for a German retirement pension which they can if they have reached a combined contribution period within the EU/EEA/UK/Switzerland of 60 months.
How much will you get back?
Refund amounts are based on your personal contributions, not your employer’s. This means you can expect to receive half of the total contributions paid into the pension fund (only your share). The calculation is straightforward:
Refund = Employee contributions only
Currently, employees contribute 9.3% of their gross income to the German pension scheme (as part of the 18.6% total, which is split with the employer).
Example:
If you earned €80,000 per year for 3 years:
- Annual contribution (your share): €80,000 × 9.3% = €7,440
- Over 3 years: €22,320 refund
Keep in mind that you will not receive interest on these contributions, and the refund amount is paid as a lump sum.
Required documents for application
To apply for a German pension refund, you will need the following documents:
- Passport copy
- Proof of residence outside the EU/UK (utility bill or lease agreement)
- Official deregistration certificate from Germany (Abmeldebescheinigung)
- German social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer)
- Proof of contribution (Gehaltsnachweis)
- Bank details for international transfer
Providing accurate information and certified copies will speed up the process.
How to apply for a German pension refund
Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Confirm your eligibility
Before you start, verify that you meet the criteria: less than 60 months of contributions, living outside the EU/UK, and at least 24 months since your last contribution. This option is available only for citizens of the USA, India, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Albania, Moldova, North Macedonia, the Philippines, South Korea, and Uruguay.
2. Gather required documents
Prepare all necessary documents in advance. Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays.
3. Submit your application to the German pension authority
You can send your application directly to Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV), the official pension authority in Germany. Make sure you include certified translations if your documents are not in German.
4. Wait for processing
The review process can take several months, usually between 3 to 6 months. DRV will confirm your eligibility and calculate the refund amount.
5. Receive your refund
Once approved, the payment is usually transferred via international bank transfer. Ensure your banking details are correct to avoid delays.
Tax implications
Refunds are generally tax-free in Germany, but your home country may treat this as taxable income. Check with your local tax authority to avoid surprises.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying too early (before 24 months have passed)
- Forgetting to deregister in Germany
- Providing incorrect bank information
- Missing or uncertified documents
Final thoughts
Claiming your German pension contributions is a smart financial decision if you are eligible. While the process might seem complicated, following the right steps and preparing your documents carefully can make it smooth and successful. If you need professional assistance or more details, visit for expert guidance.
