wohin-auswandern-quiz
wohin-auswandern-quiz
wohin-auswandern-quiz
Emigrating and Your Pension: What You Need to Consider When Deregistering from Your Pension Insurance
The dream of living abroad is becoming more attainable, but have you thought about your pension? Deregistering from the pension scheme is an important step that requires careful consideration. Find out what options you have, whether deregistration is advisable, and how you can secure your retirement provisions even while living abroad. More information can be found in our contact area.
The topic short and concise
The dream of living abroad is becoming more attainable, but have you thought about your pension? Deregistering from the pension scheme is an important step that requires careful consideration. Find out what options you have, whether deregistration is advisable, and how you can secure your retirement provisions even while living abroad. More information can be found in our contact area.
The dream of living abroad is becoming more attainable, but have you thought about your pension? Deregistering from the pension scheme is an important step that requires careful consideration. Find out what options you have, whether deregistration is advisable, and how you can secure your retirement provisions even while living abroad. More information can be found in our contact area.
The dream of living abroad is becoming more attainable, but have you thought about your pension? Deregistering from the pension scheme is an important step that requires careful consideration. Find out what options you have, whether deregistration is advisable, and how you can secure your retirement provisions even while living abroad. More information can be found in our contact area.
Planning to emigrate and unsure about what happens to your pension insurance? This article explains how to safeguard your pension entitlements and which steps are necessary for deregistration.
Overview of Pension Insurance in Germany
The German pension insurance is a cornerstone of retirement provision. It mainly consists of the statutory pension insurance, which is mandatory for most employees. This insurance is based on the principle of solidarity, where the currently employed individuals finance the pensions of the current retirees. In addition to the statutory pension insurance, there is the option to make voluntary contributions to increase the future pension. This is particularly relevant for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and expatriates. Pension insurance plays a crucial role for expatriates, as they need to deal with issues such as maintaining pension entitlements, the possibility of deregistration, and the conditions for a refund.
For expatriates, it is important to understand how moving abroad affects their pension entitlements. There are different scenarios depending on whether the destination country belongs to the EU/EEA or is a third country. Also, social security agreements between Germany and other states play an important role. These agreements regulate how insurance periods are recognised in the respective country and how pension entitlements can be claimed. Deutsche im Ausland e.V. provides detailed information on this matter.
Challenges in Emigrating
Emigration brings some challenges regarding pension insurance. One of the biggest concerns is the loss of entitlements. This can happen if the minimum insurance period is not met or if one emigrates to a country with which there is no social security agreement. Another challenge is the potential double taxation of pension income at home and abroad. It is advisable to inform yourself about the tax regulations in the destination country before emigrating. Additionally, there are different social security systems that can make it difficult to understand and assert your own entitlements. GoMovin supports you with your relocation and provides comprehensive information on insurance issues.
Unregistering from Pension Insurance: When and How to Secure Your Entitlements
Mandatory Insurance vs. Voluntary Insurance
When deregistering from the pension insurance, it is important to distinguish between mandatory insurance and voluntary insurance. Deregistration is generally only possible with voluntary insurance. For mandatory insurance, the contribution obligation automatically ends with the termination of employment in Germany. The question of when deregistration is possible depends on various factors, such as the status as an employee or self-employed person and the existence of mandatory or voluntary insurance. The conditions for a refund are also clearly defined: It is possible if the minimum insurance period is not met and certain waiting periods are observed.
The Deutsche Rentenversicherung offers an information leaflet on pensions abroad, which contains detailed information on these aspects. It is advisable to consult this leaflet before emigrating. GoMovin helps you keep track of the complex regulations and supports you in planning your move. Our relocation assistants are at your disposal with advice and assistance.
Impact of Deregistration
Deregistration from pension insurance has significant effects. The biggest disadvantage is the loss of pension entitlements that have been acquired up to that point. However, there are alternatives to deregistration, such as continuing voluntary insurance or applying for a transfer of insurance periods to the social security system of the destination country. These options should be carefully examined to find the best solution for the individual situation. Our experts at GoMovin are happy to advise you on the different options and help you make the right decision.
Special Cases
There are some special cases that need to be considered when deregistering from pension insurance. An important special case is the secondment by the employer. If an employee is sent abroad by a German company, they usually remain insured in the German pension insurance. Special regulations also apply to short-term stays abroad. It is important to be aware of these special cases to avoid errors when deregistering and to not jeopardize pension entitlements. The information on pension entitlements on our website offers you further details.
Pension claims abroad: Maximising EU regulations, minimising risks in non-EU countries
EU/EWR Area
Within the EU/EWR area, there are specific regulations that protect the pension rights of expats. An important principle is the aggregation of insurance periods. This means that all insurance periods acquired in different EU countries are considered when calculating the pension. This is particularly beneficial for people who have worked in several EU countries. The pension payment is made proportionally to the entitlements acquired in each country. Applications are usually submitted in the country of residence. The European Union provides detailed information on this topic on its website.
It is important to note that the pension systems in individual EU countries vary. Therefore, it may be advisable to inform yourself about the specific regulations in the destination country before emigrating. GoMovin supports you in understanding the differences and finding the best solution for your retirement planning. Our experts help you navigate the complex regulations and secure your pension rights.
Non-EU Countries (third countries)
Different regulations apply to expats moving to non-EU countries (third countries). Here, there are often restrictions on pension payments. In some cases, pensions may not be paid or only partially paid abroad. This particularly affects pensions based on the Foreign Pensions Act (FRG). The importance of social security agreements is particularly high in this context. If such an agreement exists, pension rights may still be secured. It is therefore advisable to find out before emigrating whether a social security agreement exists between Germany and the destination country. The information on our website about pensions abroad offers further details.
GoMovin assists in planning your move to a non-EU country and helps you gather the necessary information. We advise you on the various retirement planning options and help you secure your pension rights. Our experts are on hand to provide advice and support to make your move as smooth as possible.
Voluntary Insurance: Secure and Flexibly Design Pension Entitlements Abroad
Requirements for Voluntary Insurance
Voluntary insurance in the German pension scheme offers emigrants the opportunity to maintain their pension entitlements. However, certain requirements must be met. An important requirement is German citizenship. Additionally, one must have a residence abroad and there must be no compulsory insurance in place. If these requirements are met, an application for voluntary insurance can be submitted. The Deutsche Rentenversicherung provides detailed information about this topic on their website.
It is important to note that voluntary insurance is not beneficial in every case. One should check whether there are other, potentially more attractive retirement options available in the destination country. GoMovin supports you in comparing the various options and finding the best solution for your individual situation. Our experts are happy to advise you on the advantages and disadvantages of voluntary insurance.
Advantages of Voluntary Insurance
Voluntary insurance offers several benefits. The biggest advantage is the maintenance of pension entitlements. By making regular contributions, the acquired entitlements can be secured and even expanded. Additionally, voluntary insurance offers high flexibility in premium payments. Contributions can be adjusted according to financial circumstances. Another advantage is the crediting of periods abroad. Under certain conditions, periods spent abroad can be considered in the pension calculation.
Mandatory Insurance Upon Application
Besides voluntary insurance, there is also the option of mandatory insurance upon application. This applies in certain cases, e.g., when a German employer sends an employee abroad. However, certain conditions and deadlines must be observed. For instance, the application must be submitted within three months of starting work abroad. Otherwise, insurance coverage only begins from the application date. It is essential to avoid double contributions by being informed about the social security regulations in the destination country in time. GoMovin supports you in making the necessary applications and meeting the deadlines. Our experts help you avoid double contributions and secure your pension entitlements.
Claim back pension contributions: Check prerequisites, secure entitlements
Conditions for Refund
Under certain circumstances, it is possible to have pension contributions refunded. However, the conditions for the refund are strict. An important prerequisite is that the minimum insurance period has not been met. Additionally, there must have been no compulsory insurance for 24 months, and no entitlement to voluntary insurance should exist. If these conditions are met, a refund application can be submitted. It is important to note, however, that the refund has significant consequences.
Consequences of the Refund
The biggest consequence of the refund is the loss of all pension rights. This means that all claims acquired up to that point will expire. An alternative to a refund is the maintenance of insurance by paying voluntary contributions. This can be advisable if you plan to work in Germany again later or if you want to secure pension rights for the future. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully weigh the pros and cons of a refund. GoMovin supports you in making the right decision and advises you on the various retirement options.
Application and Procedure
The application for a refund is made to the German Pension Insurance. There are specific forms and evidence that must be submitted. The processing time may vary depending on the case. It is advisable to submit the application in good time and to submit all the required documents completely to avoid delays. Our information on pension rights on our website offers you further details. GoMovin helps you fill out the application correctly and compile all necessary documents. Our experts are on hand to guide you to make the process as simple as possible.
Pension Calculation Abroad: How to Maximise Your Benefits
Domestic Calculation (National Calculation)
Calculating pensions abroad can be complex. There are various aspects that need to be considered. An important aspect is the domestic calculation (national calculation). This is based on German pension law periods. This means that all periods during which contributions were made to the German pension insurance are taken into account in the calculation. The amount of the pension depends on the amount of contributions and the number of insurance years.
International Calculation (Supranational Calculation)
In addition to the domestic calculation, there is the international calculation (supranational calculation). This applies when insurance periods have been acquired in other states. In this case, the insurance periods are aggregated across different states. The pension is then paid proportionally by the respective states. There is a theoretical and proportional pension. The theoretical pension is the pension one would receive if all insurance periods had been acquired in one state. The proportional pension is the portion of the theoretical pension that corresponds to the proportion of insurance periods in the respective state. The German Women Abroad e.V. provides detailed information on this.
Special Cases
There are some special cases that need to be considered in the calculation of pensions abroad. One special case is insurance periods of minor extent (small pensions). If only very short insurance periods were accumulated in a state, it may be that no pension is paid. However, there are provisions to ensure that these periods are not lost. Another special case is the consideration of contribution periods outside the current German area. These periods can potentially be considered in the pension calculation. GoMovin supports you in understanding the complex rules of pension calculation and in maximising your pension entitlements. Our experts are happy to advise you on the various options for retirement provision.
Planning Emigration: Checklist and Contact Points for Your Pension Insurance
Checklist for Emigrants
Emigration is a big step that requires careful planning. Regarding pension insurance, there are several points to consider. An important measure is to gather information. Be sure to inform yourself in good time about the pension insurance regulations in your destination country and in Germany. Seek advice to clarify your individual situation and find the best possible solution. Submit applications in good time to avoid delays and secure your pension entitlements. GoMovin supports you in planning your move and helps you take all the necessary steps.
Important Contact Points
There are various contact points that can assist you with questions about pension insurance. One important contact is the German Pension Insurance Association. Here, you can obtain general information and submit applications. Another contact point is the German Pension Insurance for Miners, Railway Workers, and Maritime, which caters to certain professional groups. Additionally, there are regional providers responsible for pension insurance in the individual federal states. The German Pension Insurance offers detailed information on these contact points on its website.
Useful Links and Resources
There are a multitude of useful links and resources that can assist you in planning your emigration. These include the websites of the pension insurance, where you can find detailed information and forms. Additionally, there are advisory centres for emigrants, which can assist you with all questions related to emigration. GoMovin has established a network of partners who can assist you with all aspects of your move. Our experts are there to help and support you to ensure your move is as smooth as possible.
Avoiding pitfalls: How to secure your pension rights when emigrating
Insufficient Information
A common mistake in emigrating is insufficient information. Many emigrants do not adequately inform themselves about pension insurance regulations and make mistakes that can become costly. It is therefore important to inform and seek advice in good time. GoMovin offers you comprehensive information and advice on all aspects of emigration, including pension insurance. Our experts help you avoid pitfalls and secure your pension rights.
Incorrect Assumptions about Pension Entitlements
Another mistake is making incorrect assumptions about pension entitlements. Many emigrants assume that their pension entitlements are automatically secured, which is not always the case. Thus, it is essential to examine the individual situation and inform yourself about specific regulations. The information on pension entitlements on our website provides you with further details. GoMovin supports you in analysing your individual situation and making the right decisions.
Missing Deadlines
Missing deadlines can also lead to problems. Many applications must be submitted within certain time limits to secure pension entitlements. Therefore, it is important to submit applications on time and provide all required documents completely. GoMovin helps you keep track of deadlines and submit applications promptly. Our experts are at your side with advice and assistance to make the process as simple as possible.
Ignoring Social Security Agreements
Ignoring social security agreements can also cause problems. If a social security agreement exists between Germany and the destination country, pension entitlements may potentially be secured. Therefore, it is crucial to check whether an agreement exists and what regulations are included. The German Pension Insurance offers a leaflet on retirement abroad, which contains detailed information on these aspects. GoMovin supports you in understanding social security agreements and securing your pension entitlements. Our experts are happy to advise you on the various options for retirement planning.
Conclusion: Secure your pension when emigrating – GoMovin is here to support you!
Key Points at a Glance
Emigration and pension insurance are complex subjects that require careful planning. It is crucial to gather information in advance, seek advice, and submit applications on time. The regulations concerning pension insurance are varied and depend on various factors such as the destination country, the existence of a social security agreement, and the individual insurance history. Therefore, it is advisable to seek professional support to avoid mistakes and secure your pension entitlements.
Recommendations for Emigrants
For emigrants, it is recommended to observe the following points:
Inform Yourself in Time: Obtain comprehensive information about pension insurance regulations in both the destination country and Germany.
Seek Professional Advice: Consult with experts to clarify your personal situation and find the best possible solution.
Submit Applications on Time: Submit all necessary applications promptly to avoid delays and secure your pension claims.
Outlook on Future Developments
Pension insurance is subject to constant change. Therefore, it is important to stay informed about future developments. GoMovin monitors current developments and keeps you informed about significant changes. This way, you can be sure you are always up to date and making the right decisions. Planning to emigrate and need support with organizing your move and clarifying your pension entitlements? GoMovin offers comprehensive relocation assistance tailored to your individual needs. We support you every step of the way, from planning to executing your move. Contact us today to learn more about our services. We look forward to assisting you with your move abroad. Contact us now!
Further useful links
The Deutsche Rentenversicherung provides detailed information on the conditions and requirements for voluntary insurance abroad.
The European Union provides information on the aggregation of insurance periods within the EU and pension entitlements abroad in Europe.
Deutsche Rentenversicherung provides a leaflet containing detailed information on pensions abroad.
FAQ
What happens to my German pension insurance if I emigrate to a country outside the EU?
If you move to a country without a social security agreement with Germany (non-contractual foreign country), your German pension insurance may be restricted. It is important to check if exceptions such as posting or voluntary contributions are possible to secure your entitlements.
Can I reclaim my pension contributions if I emigrate?
Yes, under certain conditions a refund of pension contributions is possible. This particularly applies if the minimum insurance period has not been met and there has been no compulsory insurance for 24 months. However, be aware that the refund will result in the loss of all pension entitlements.
What are the benefits of voluntary insurance for emigrants?
The voluntary insurance allows emigrants to maintain their pension entitlements, even while living abroad. It offers flexibility in contribution payments and can help to secure and expand acquired entitlements.
How are my pension entitlements taken into account within the EU/EFTA?
Within the EU/EFTA, the aggregation of insurance periods applies. This means that all insurance periods acquired in different EU countries are considered in the pension calculation. Pension payments are made proportionally based on the entitlements acquired in each country.
What is the mandatory insurance upon application and when is it applicable?
The mandatory insurance upon application is applicable when a German employer sends an employee abroad. The application must be submitted within three months of starting work abroad to avoid double contributions.
Where can I find out if Germany has a social security agreement with my destination country?
Information on social security agreements is available from the German Pension Insurance Association, the German Pension Insurance Knappschaft-Bahn-See, or the regional providers. The website of the Foreign Office can also be helpful.
What does the Foreign Pensions Act (FRG) mean in the context of pension payments abroad?
The Foreign Pensions Act (FRG) can restrict pension payments to certain third countries (non-contractual foreign countries). This particularly affects pensions based on the FRG. It is important to inform yourself about the implications of the FRG before emigrating.
How can GoMovin help me plan my pension insurance when emigrating?
GoMovin offers comprehensive information and advice on all aspects of emigration, including pension insurance. We support you in the planning of your move, the clarification of your pension entitlements, and the avoidance of pitfalls.
