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German pension refund for Indians: Complete application guide

•Updated May 13, 2025

German Pension Refund for Indians

Indian citizens who worked in Germany are eligible to claim back their pension contributions after returning to India.

Eligibility for Indian Citizens

✓ Indian passport holder (not dual EU citizen)
✓ Currently living in India
✓ 24 months passed since last German contribution
✓ Completed German deregistration (Abmeldung)

India-Germany Social Security Agreement

India and Germany signed a social security agreement in 2009, but this doesn't prevent refunds for Indians living in India.

Refund Calculation

Only your employee contributions (9.3% of gross salary) are refundable.

Typical refund amounts for Indians:

  • 1 year: ₹2,00,000 - ₹4,00,000
  • 2 years: ₹4,00,000 - ₹8,00,000
  • 3 years: ₹6,00,000 - ₹12,00,000

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

Documents Required from India

  • Valid Indian passport
  • Abmeldebescheinigung (German deregistration)
  • Social security card copy
  • Indian bank account details (SWIFT-enabled)
  • Address proof in India

Notarization in India

Certain documents must be notarized at the German Embassy in New Delhi or consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, or Kolkata.

Processing Timeline

  • Application submission to decision: 4-6 months
  • Transfer to Indian bank: 8-10 weeks after approval

Start your German pension refund claim from India today!

Need help with your German pension?

Our experts can guide you through the entire process.

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