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How to Get a Pension Refund as an Australian Expat in Germany

How to Get a Pension Refund as an Australian Expat in Germany

If you’re an Australian expat living and working in Germany, it’s crucial to understand the implications of the German public pension system (Gesetzliche Rentenversicherung). A portion of your income, 9.3% contributes to this system. If you decide to leave Germany, you may be eligible for a pension refund, potentially reclaiming thousands of euros. This guide outlines the process for Australian expats looking to secure their pension contributions.

 

Who Can Get a Pension Refund?

Eligibility for a pension refund depends on specific criteria. The easiest way to assess your situation is by using a pension refund calculator.

Key Conditions for Refund Eligibility:

  • You are no longer required to contribute to the German pension system.
  • You cannot voluntarily contribute to the German pension system.
  • Your last pension payment in the EU, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, or Turkey was made more than 24 months ago.

 

Australians and the German Pension System

Australia and Germany have a pension agreement that allows Australians to contribute to the German pension system. However, if you leave Germany, you may qualify for a refund if you meet the following criteria:

  • You have made fewer than 60 monthly contributions to the pension system.
  • Your last contribution was made over 24 months ago.
  • You do not currently reside in any of the following countries: the EU, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, or Turkey.

If you don’t qualify for a refund, you can claim a German pension when you reach the age of 67.

Special Case for British Expats Post-Brexit

If you lived in the UK before moving to Germany or worked in Germany prior to Brexit, additional rules apply. You must meet all the standard conditions, plus you must not have worked in Germany after Brexit (January 1, 2021).

 

How Much Money Will You Get Back?

The refund will cover your personal contributions to the pension system, which is 9.3% of your gross income. Depending on your earnings and duration of employment in Germany, this could amount to several thousand euros. Note that employer contributions are not refundable. If you’ve received benefits from the German pension system, your refund may be reduced.

Freelancers are eligible for a refund of only 50% of their contributions, as they are not automatically required to contribute to the public pension system.

 

How to Apply for a German Pension Refund for Australians

Applying for a pension refund is not automatic. Follow these steps to initiate the process:

  1. Wait 24 Months After Your Last Pension Contribution

You need to wait at least 24 months after your final pension contribution to apply for a refund. Your last contribution usually occurs about a month after your last day of work.

  1. Gather Necessary Information

Obtain your Tax ID and Social Insurance Number, as these will be needed for the application.

  1. Download and Fill Out the Required Forms

Complete the appropriate forms from the Deutsche Rentenversicherung website. Different forms exist for Turkish and non-Turkish citizens. Booking an appointment with the Deutsche Rentenversicherung can help clarify the process.

  1. Provide Supporting Documents

Include a certified copy of your passport, a Meldebescheinigung (proof of registration), a deregistration certificate (Abmeldebescheinigung), and possibly proof of residence in your current country.

  1. Submit Your Documents

Once your application is complete, send your documents to the Deutsche Rentenversicherung in Berlin. Remember to submit only after the 24-month period has passed.

  1. Wait for Your Refund

Processing times can vary, typically ranging from one to six months once your application is submitted.

 

Get Help with Your Pension Refund as Australian Expat in Germany

If the process seems overwhelming, consider hiring a service specialising in pension refunds. These companies can manage everything from form completion to communication with German authorities. Some options include:

These services can also facilitate receiving your refund in a non-German bank account, potentially reducing fees and processing times.

 

Final Thoughts for Australian Expats

Navigating the German pension system can feel daunting, but if you meet the eligibility criteria for a refund, pursuing it is worthwhile. As an Australian expat, you may be entitled to a substantial refund that can make your move away from Germany smoother financially.

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