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German pension refund for Canadians: Essential guide

•Updated May 14, 2025

German Pension Refund for Canadians

Canadian citizens who worked in Germany can claim back their pension contributions when returning to Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Canadian citizenship (excluding dual EU citizenship)
  • Currently residing in Canada
  • 24+ months since last German pension contribution
  • No option for voluntary German pension contributions

Canada-Germany Social Security Agreement

Canada and Germany have a totalization agreement for pensions, but Canadians living in Canada can still claim refunds of their contributions.

Refund Amount

Your refund includes only your employee contributions (9.3% of gross salary since 2023).

Example calculation:

  • Monthly salary: CAD 4,500 (€3,000)
  • Monthly contribution: CAD 418 (€279)
  • 36 months worked: CAD 15,048 (€10,044)

Ready to Claim Your German Pension Refund?

Don't let your hard-earned pension contributions go to waste. Our expert team will guide you through the entire refund process.

Start Your Claim

Required Documents

  • Valid Canadian passport
  • German Abmeldebescheinigung (deregistration)
  • Sozialversicherungsausweis (social security card)
  • Proof of Canadian residence
  • Bank account information

Timeline from Canada

  • Waiting period: 24 months after last contribution
  • Processing: 3-6 months
  • Transfer to Canadian bank: 6-8 weeks after approval

Ready to claim your refund? Start your eligibility check now!

Need help with your German pension?

Our experts can guide you through the entire process.

Get Started