Can I apply for a pension in Germany as a foreign retiree?
July 13, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Leonie Eiserfelder
Dear lawyer,
My name is Fanni Walter and I am a foreign retiree. I have been living in Germany for many years now and I have established my life here. Up until now, I have been receiving my pension from my home country, but I have recently learned that it may be possible to also apply for a pension in Germany.
My concern is that I may not be adequately secured financially in my old age, as the pension from my home country is not very high. Since I live here in Germany and cover most of my living expenses here, it would be ideal for me to also receive a German pension.
My question to you as an expert in foreign law is therefore: Is it possible for me as a foreign retiree to apply for a pension in Germany? What are the requirements that need to be met and what steps do I need to take in order to do so?
I would be very grateful if you could assist me with this matter, as it is of great importance for me to secure my financial situation in old age. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Fanni Walter
Dear Mrs. Walter,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the possibility of applying for a pension in Germany as a foreign retiree. It is understandable that you are concerned about your financial security in old age and are therefore looking for alternative pension options.
In principle, it is possible for a foreign retiree to apply for a pension in Germany. However, certain requirements must be met. First and foremost, you must have your main residence in Germany and have been subject to social insurance contributions for at least five years or have a place of residence in Germany. This is crucial for determining whether you are eligible for a German pension.
Furthermore, it is important that you have paid pension contributions in Germany. If you have already acquired pension entitlements in your home country, it is possible to have these entitlements credited towards the German pension. For this, you must submit the relevant documents and evidence to the German Pension Insurance.
To apply for a German pension, you must contact the German Pension Insurance. Your information will be reviewed and further documents may be requested if necessary. Depending on your individual situation, it may take some time for your pension entitlement to be determined and the pension to be approved.
It is advisable to start the process of applying for a German pension early to ensure seamless financial security in old age. I am happy to assist you with any further questions or support you may need, and can guide you through the pension application process.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you and wish you all the best for your financial future.
Sincerely,
Leonie Eiserfelder
Attorney-at-law
