You paid into the German pension system. Here is who qualifies for a refund -- and who doesn't.
Non-EU citizens who worked in Germany and now live outside the EU can reclaim their pension contributions (Rentenerstattung) after a 24-month waiting period. Average refund: EUR 12,926.
“Got €16,400 back. Camilo kept me updated every step.”
James T. · Canada
Guide path
The eligibility path in three checks
Refund eligibility depends on your current residence, contribution history and whether you still have open pension insurance obligations in Germany.
Non-EU citizenship and current residence outside the EU
You must be a non-EU citizen and currently live outside the European Union, the EEA and Switzerland.
The 24-month rule: waiting period after leaving Germany
You can apply 24 months after your last mandatory pension contribution in Germany. You can start the process earlier -- the application is submitted once the waiting period is complete.
Fewer than 60 months of contributions (the 5-year rule)
If you paid into the German pension system for less than 60 months total, a refund is the standard path. With more than 60 months, a regular pension may be the better option.
Common eligibility questions
Who can claim a pension refund?
Pension refund is usually relevant for people who paid into the German pension system, may not fit the standard pension path and want to check whether reclaiming contributions makes more sense than waiting for regular retirement benefits.
ExploreDo I have to wait 24 months for a pension refund?
In many refund cases, the 24-month gap after your last mandatory contribution is part of the timing logic. The exact fit still depends on your insurance history and whether another pension route is more relevant, so it should be checked in context first.
ExploreReady for the right next step?
Use the guide for orientation, then continue into the matching service path or contact once the next action is clear.
