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Emigrating as a Retired Civil Servant: How to Successfully Start Anew Abroad!
Retirement is the perfect time to fulfil long-held dreams. If, as a retired civil servant, you are considering emigrating, there are several things to consider. Find out now about the most important aspects, from taxes to health insurance, and start your new life with ease. Contact us for personal advice!
The topic short and concise
Retirement is the perfect time to fulfil long-held dreams. If, as a retired civil servant, you are considering emigrating, there are several things to consider. Find out now about the most important aspects, from taxes to health insurance, and start your new life with ease. Contact us for personal advice!
Retirement is the perfect time to fulfil long-held dreams. If, as a retired civil servant, you are considering emigrating, there are several things to consider. Find out now about the most important aspects, from taxes to health insurance, and start your new life with ease. Contact us for personal advice!
Retirement is the perfect time to fulfil long-held dreams. If, as a retired civil servant, you are considering emigrating, there are several things to consider. Find out now about the most important aspects, from taxes to health insurance, and start your new life with ease. Contact us for personal advice!
Do you dream of a worry-free retirement under palm trees? Find out what retired civil servants need to consider when emigrating to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Introduction: Emigrating as a Retired Civil Servant
Overview of Opportunities and Challenges
The dream of retiring under palm trees or in the mountains is enticing for many Germans. However, for retired civil servants, the question arises as to what needs to be considered when emigrating. It's essential to deal with the legal, tax, and insurance aspects to be able to enjoy retirement abroad without worry. At GoMovin, we support you in making your move seamless. Our relocation assistance is designed to make your transition as easy as possible.
Why the Topic is Relevant: Increasing Popularity and Complex Framework Conditions
More and more retired civil servants are choosing a life abroad. The reasons are varied: milder climate, lower cost of living, or simply the desire for a fresh start. Yet, the framework conditions are complex. It's important to avoid tax pitfalls, optimize health insurance, and not jeopardize the civil servant status. Early and comprehensive planning is therefore essential. We are happy to assist you with official procedures so you can relax and unwind.
Civil servant status abroad: Observe loyalty obligations!
Legal Foundations and Civil Servant Status
Retention of Civil Servant Status Abroad
In principle, your civil servant status remains intact abroad. This means that you continue to receive your pension and have certain rights and obligations. However, it's important to know that the civil servant status still carries obligations even in retirement. Be sure to inform yourself about the residency requirement, which might restrict your place of residence.
Duties of Loyalty and Their Significance
Even as a retired civil servant, you are still bound by the duty of loyalty to your employer. This means that you must behave loyally towards the state and refrain from any actions that could damage the reputation of the civil service. This duty could relate, for instance, to your public statements or political activities. It is advisable to research the specific impact of the duty of loyalty before emigrating.
Impact of Citizenship on Civil Servant Status
Accepting a foreign citizenship can have significant consequences for your civil servant status. In many cases, this leads to the loss of civil servant status and therefore also of the pension. Ensure you are well-informed in advance about the consequences that accepting another citizenship would have for you. The acceptance of a second citizenship could lead to the loss of civil servant status.
Loss of Civil Servant Status upon Acceptance of Foreign Citizenship?
Whether the loss of civil servant status actually occurs depends on the specific laws and regulations. In some cases, there are exceptions, such as when accepting the foreign citizenship is in Germany's interest. However, it is advisable not to rely on such exceptions but to thoroughly inform yourself in advance and seek legal advice if necessary.
Residency Requirement: What Does It Mean for Retired Civil Servants?
The residency requirement obliges civil servants to choose a residence that allows them to fulfill their official duties at any time. For retired civil servants, this requirement is generally less relevant, as they no longer have active service duties. However, there may be exceptions, such as if you are still working voluntarily in public service. In such cases, you should check before emigration whether the residency requirement still applies to you.
Optimising tax burden: How to tax your civil servant pension abroad
Tax Aspects of Civil Servant Pensions Abroad
Taxation of Civil Servant Pensions in Germany When Residing Abroad
Even if you relocate your residence abroad, you generally must continue to pay tax on your civil servant pension in Germany. This is because the pension is paid from German public funds. However, there are some particularities to consider that may affect your tax burden. The pension must also be taxed in Germany after moving abroad.
Limited Tax Liability and Its Consequences
With emigration, you are subject to limited tax liability in Germany. This means that you are only liable for taxes on your domestic income. This can have either a positive or negative impact on your tax burden. For instance, the basic tax-free allowance is no longer applicable, which may result in a higher tax burden. It is important to fully understand the consequences of limited tax liability.
Loss of Basic Tax-Free Allowance and Increased Tax Burden
The basic tax-free allowance is an amount up to which your income remains tax-free. In the case of limited tax liability, this allowance is omitted, meaning you will have to pay tax on your pension from the first euro. This can significantly increase your tax burden. Therefore, it is advisable to be informed about the tax implications before emigrating and to make preparations if necessary.
Double Taxation Agreements (DTA): Their Meaning and How They Help
Germany has entered into so-called Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) with many countries. These agreements determine which country has the right to tax certain income. In the case of civil servant pensions, Germany generally retains the right to tax, even if you reside abroad. There are exceptions, however, and it is important to carefully review the DTA with your destination country. The DTAs can influence the taxation of civil servant pensions.
Countries with DTAs and Their Specific Regulations
The regulations in the DTAs can vary from country to country. In some countries, the civil servant pension is not taxed at all, while in others, it is only partially taxed. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the specific regulations of the DTA with your destination country. A list of countries with which Germany has concluded a DTA can be found on the website of the Federal Central Tax Office.
Non-Dom Status and Civil Servant Pensions: No Advantages
Some countries offer what is known as a Non-Dom Status, allowing certain foreign income to be received tax-free. However, this status generally does not apply to civil servant pensions. Since the pension is paid from German public funds, it is taxable in Germany regardless of where you reside. The Non-Dom Status does not offer any tax benefits for civil servant pensions.
Recommendation: Consult a Tax Advisor
The tax aspects of emigration as a retired civil servant are complex and varied. Therefore, it is advisable to seek advice from a tax advisor familiar with international tax issues before emigrating. They can help you optimise your tax burden and avoid tax traps. At GoMovin, we work with experienced tax advisors and are happy to refer you to an expert.
Health Abroad: Optimally Arranging Allowance and Health Insurance
Health Insurance and Benefits Abroad
Benefit Claims Abroad: Restrictions and Opportunities
As a retired civil servant, you are generally entitled to benefits. These cover part of your medical expenses. However, there are certain restrictions abroad. For instance, costs for treatments outside the EU are often only reimbursed up to the level of costs for a comparable treatment in Germany. Therefore, it is important to find out about the specific regulations before emigrating. The benefit claims remain valid in principle, but there are restrictions.
Benefits Outside the EU: Cost Reimbursement Up to Domestic Treatment Costs
If you decide to live outside the EU, be aware that the benefit is generally only reimbursed up to the level of costs for a comparable treatment in Germany. This means you may have to bear part of the costs yourself. Therefore, it is advisable to take out private supplementary health insurance that covers these costs.
Bavarian Special Regulations: Residence Requirement in Certain Countries?
Some federal states, such as Bavaria, have special regulations for benefit recipients abroad. For instance, you may need to have your residence in a particular country to continue receiving benefits. Therefore, inform yourself about your state's specific regulations before emigrating. In Bavaria, a residence requirement in Thailand may exist.
Private Health Insurance (PKV) with Benefit Supplementary Tariff: Check International Coverage
If you have private health insurance, you should check your coverage before emigrating and adjust it if necessary. Make sure your tariff offers comprehensive coverage abroad. A benefit supplementary tariff can be useful to enhance the benefits of benefits abroad. Clarify whether your PKV with benefit supplementary tariff offers international coverage.
Statutory Health Insurance (GKV): Opportunities and Limits Abroad
Even as a statutorily insured retired civil servant, you may be eligible to remain insured abroad under certain circumstances. This is possible, for example, if you live in an EU country. However, make sure to inform yourself in advance about the specific regulations and restrictions. In some cases, taking out private international health insurance can be advisable.
Important Note: Clarify Health Care in the Destination Country in Advance
Regardless of which type of health insurance you choose, you should inform yourself about health care in your destination country before emigrating. Clarify which medical services are available, the quality of medical care, and the costs you will incur. Good preparation is crucial for your health abroad.
Planning Emigration: These Steps Must Be Completed in Advance
Practical Steps Before Emigrating
Notification Obligations to Authorities
Before your emigration, you need to notify various authorities. This includes the German Pension Insurance, the tax office, and the State Office for Salaries and Pensions (LBV). Make sure to check the specific deadlines and formalities in advance. At GoMovin, we support you with these administrative tasks and assist you in gathering all necessary documents.
Informing the German Pension Insurance
Even if you do not receive your pension from the German Pension Insurance, you must still inform them about your emigration. This is crucial to ensure your pension entitlements are correctly recorded. The German Pension Insurance must be informed two months before the move.
State Office for Salaries and Pensions (LBV): Income Declaration and Certificate of Life
The State Office for Salaries and Pensions (LBV) is responsible for disbursing your civil servant pension. You must inform the LBV of your emigration and submit an income declaration and a certificate of life annually. The income declaration and certificate of life must be submitted annually by 30th November.
Certificate of Life: Annual Submission Required
The certificate of life serves as proof that you are still alive. It must be confirmed annually by a German foreign mission or another authorised authority. The certificate of life is an important requirement for the payout of your pension. Along with the declaration, a certificate of life confirmed by a German foreign mission must be submitted.
Exception During the Corona Pandemic (2020)
In the year 2020, there was an exception concerning the submission of the certificate of life due to the Corona pandemic. In this year, a personally signed certificate of life was sufficient. However, this exception was only valid for the year 2020. In 2020, there was an exception due to the Corona pandemic.
Assessing the Financial Situation
Before your emigration, it's important to thoroughly assess your financial situation. Create an overview of your income and expenditures in the destination country. Also, consider potential currency fluctuations. It's advisable to set aside a financial cushion to cover unforeseen expenses.
Overview of Income and Expenditures in the Destination Country
Create a detailed breakdown of your income and expenditures in the destination country. Consider all costs, such as rent, food, health insurance, and leisure activities. Compare your income and expenditures to determine if you can afford living in the destination country.
Considering Currency Fluctuations
Currency fluctuations can significantly affect your financial situation abroad. If the value of your pension decreases relative to the currency of your destination country, you'll have less money available. Therefore, it’s advisable to inform yourself about currency risks before emigration and, if necessary, make provisions.
Widows' and Orphans' Pensions: Keep an Eye on Entitlements
Special Aspects: Widow's and Orphan's Pensions
Entitlement to Widow's Pension: Requirements and Conditions
If you, as a retired civil servant, pass away, your survivors may be entitled to a widow's or orphan's pension. However, the prerequisites and conditions for receiving these benefits are complex. Therefore, it is advisable to learn about the respective regulations in a timely manner. The entitlements to widow's pension have specific criteria.
Minimum Duration of Marriage and Age Limit of the Civil Servant
There are certain conditions for entitlement to widow's pension. Generally, the marriage must have lasted at least one year. In addition, the civil servant must not have been older than 65 at the time of marriage. However, there are exceptions to these rules, for instance, if the marriage was entered into for reasons other than securing the widow's pension.
Amount of Widow's Pension and Possible Reductions
The amount of the widow's pension is usually 60 per cent of the pension of the deceased civil servant. However, there may be reductions, for example, if there is a significant age difference between the spouses or if the marriage was childless. The amount of the widow's pension is usually 60% or 55% of the deceased's pension.
Widow's Settlement upon Remarriage
If the widow or widower remarries, the entitlement to widow's pension lapses. In this case, however, a widow's settlement is paid. The amount of the widow's settlement depends on the duration of receipt of the widow's pension. Upon remarriage, a widow's settlement is paid.
Entitlement to Orphan's Pension: Conditions for Children
Children of deceased civil servants may also be entitled to an orphan's pension. The conditions for this are that the children are still minors or in education. Special rules apply to adoptive children. Children have conditions for the entitlement to orphan's pension.
Adoptive Children and Age Limits
Adoptive children generally have the same entitlement to orphan's pension as biological children. However, there is an exception: if the civil servant adopted the child only after his 65th birthday, there is usually no entitlement to orphan's pension. Children adopted after the 65th birthday usually have no entitlement to orphan's pension.
Starting afresh abroad: Overcoming language barriers, making connections
Challenges and Pitfalls
Language Barriers and Cultural Differences
One of the biggest challenges of emigration is dealing with language barriers and cultural differences. It is important to familiarise yourself with the language and culture of the destination country before emigrating. Even if you don't speak the language perfectly, you should at least acquire basic skills. This will facilitate communication and integration into your new environment.
Adjusting to the New Environment
Adjusting to the new environment can require time and patience. Being open to new experiences and embracing the local conditions is crucial. Try to integrate into social life and make connections. This will help you feel at home more quickly.
Social Contacts and Integration
Social contacts are essential for successful integration abroad. Seek contact with locals and other emigrants. Join clubs or organisations that align with your interests. This provides the opportunity to meet new friends and build a social network.
Dealing with Homesickness
Homesickness is a feeling many emigrants experience. It is important to confront this feeling and develop strategies to cope with it. Stay in touch with your family and friends in Germany. Attend German events regularly or connect with other German emigrants. This can help alleviate homesickness.
Successful Emigration: Careful Planning is Crucial
Conclusion and Outlook
Summary of Key Points
Emigrating as a retired civil servant is a significant step that requires careful thought and planning. It's important to address the legal, tax, and insurance aspects to enjoy a relaxed retirement abroad. Therefore, early and comprehensive planning is essential.
Recommendations for a Successful Emigration as a Retired Civil Servant
Here are some recommendations for a successful emigration as a retired civil servant:
Inform yourself thoroughly: Familiarise yourself early with the legal, tax, and insurance aspects.
Plan carefully: Create a detailed plan for your emigration.
Seek advice: Get professional support from experts, such as tax advisers or insurance brokers.
Be open to new experiences: Embrace the culture and people of your destination country.
Maintain connections: Connect with locals and other expatriates.
The Importance of Careful Planning and Preparation
Careful planning and preparation are the keys to a successful emigration. Take sufficient time to consider all aspects and gather comprehensive information. This helps you avoid mistakes and enjoy your retirement abroad without worries.
Future Prospects for Retired Civil Servants Abroad
The future prospects for retired civil servants abroad are promising. An increasing number of retired civil servants choose to live abroad and benefit from the advantages it offers. With good planning and preparation, nothing stands in the way of a fulfilling retirement abroad.
We at GoMovin understand that the decision to emigrate as a retired civil servant raises many questions. That is why we offer you comprehensive advice and support to make your move as stress-free as possible. From planning to execution, we stand by your side with our expertise. Contact us today for a non-binding consultation and find out how we can help you realise your dream of retirement abroad. Get in touch now!
Further useful links
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) provides detailed statistical information about Germany, which could be relevant for planning your retirement abroad.
Federal Health Reporting (GBE) provides information about healthcare in Germany, which can assist you in deciding on your health insurance abroad.
The dbb civil service federation and collective bargaining union represents the interests of civil servants and may be able to provide you with specific information regarding your civil servant status abroad.
FAQ
What tax aspects do I need to consider as a retired civil servant when emigrating?
Even after emigrating, your civil servant pension must be taxed in Germany. By emigrating, you become subject to limited tax liability, which means the basic tax allowance no longer applies. A double taxation agreement (DTA) with your destination country can affect your tax burden. Consultation with a tax advisor is essential.
Do I retain my civil servant status if I move abroad?
In principle, your civil servant status remains valid abroad. However, you are still subject to the duty of loyalty to your employer. Acquiring a foreign citizenship may lead to the loss of civil servant status.
How does emigration affect my entitlement to benefits?
As a retired civil servant, you are generally entitled to benefits. However, there are restrictions abroad. Outside the EU, costs are often only reimbursed up to the amount for a comparable treatment in Germany. A private supplementary health insurance can be advisable.
What notification obligations do I have before emigrating?
Before emigrating, you need to inform various authorities, including the German Pension Insurance and the State Office for Remuneration and Pensions (LBV). You must submit an income declaration and a certificate of life to the LBV annually.
What is a certificate of life and why do I need it?
The certificate of life serves as proof that you are still alive. It must be confirmed annually by a German foreign representation or another authorised entity and is an important prerequisite for the payout of your pension.
Are there countries where my civil servant pension is tax-free?
Some countries have double taxation agreements (DTA) with Germany, which regulate the taxation of civil servant pensions. However, there are no countries where your civil servant pension is automatically tax-free. The regulations vary, so an individual assessment is necessary.
What happens to my widow's or orphan's pension entitlement if I emigrate?
Your dependents may be entitled to widow's or orphan's pension, even if you live abroad. The conditions and requirements are complex and should be clarified in advance. There are specific criteria concerning the duration of marriage and the age of the civil servant.
What role does the residency obligation play for retired civil servants abroad?
The residency obligation requires civil servants to choose their residence so that they can fulfil their official duties at any time. For retired civil servants, this obligation is generally less relevant, unless you are still engaged in voluntary public service activities.
