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German pension refund for New Zealanders: Complete guide

•Updated May 14, 2025

German Pension Refund for New Zealanders

New Zealand citizens who worked in Germany can claim back their pension contributions when returning home.

Eligibility for Kiwis

✓ New Zealand citizenship (not dual EU)
✓ Currently living in New Zealand
✓ 24 months since last German pension contribution
✓ Completed German Abmeldung

NZ-Germany Social Security Agreement

New Zealand and Germany have a social security agreement, but Kiwis living in NZ can still claim pension refunds.

Refund Amount in NZD

Your contribution: 9.3% of gross salary.

Example:

  • Monthly salary: NZ$5,000 (€2,857)
  • Monthly contribution: NZ$465 (€266)
  • 24 months: NZ$11,160 (€6,377)

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

  • New Zealand passport
  • German deregistration certificate
  • Social security card
  • NZ bank details (international transfer)
  • Proof of NZ residence

Notarization in New Zealand

German Embassy Wellington or Honorary Consulates in Auckland and Christchurch.

Processing Timeline

  • Application to decision: 3-6 months
  • Transfer to NZ: 6-8 weeks

Claim your German pension from New Zealand today!

Need help with your German pension?

Our experts can guide you through the entire process.

Get Started