For people from Madagascar who have worked in Germany, finding out how to get a Pension contribution refund is key. While your contributions to the German pension system are an important part of your social security, the process of claiming these funds and understanding the specific requirements for citizens of Madagascar can seem complicated.
This guide is designed to make things easier. If you’re considering claiming a Pension contribution refund, we want to provide you with clear and practical information. We aim to help you make informed decisions about your financial future after you leave Germany.
Entitlement to a German pension refund for nationals of Madagascar
As a citizen of Madagascar working in Germany, you pay around 9% of your monthly taxable income into Deutsche Rentenversicherung, the official German pension insurance scheme. This amount is matched by your employer, making it a joint contribution to the social security system.
What happens to these contributions if you leave Germany? Can you get them back?
{Due to the lack of a bilateral social security agreement between Madagascar and Germany, you cannot voluntarily contribute to the German pension system unless you are resident in the EU/UK.|If you are not resident in the EU/UK, you cannot voluntarily contribute to the German pension system due to the lack of a bilateral social security agreement between Madagascar and Germany.
Knowing how to apply for a Pension contribution refund is important when planning your life after Germany. As a citizen of Madagascar, you may be entitled to a Pension contribution refund under certain conditions.
Eligibility for pension refund: General criteria
When you leave Germany, you can usually get a refund of your German pension contributions if:
a) You cannot continue making voluntary contributions to the German pension system (freiwillige Versicherung) from your new place of residence.
and
b) At least 24 months have passed since your last payment into Germany’s statutory pension scheme.
The ability to make voluntary insurance payments (a) depends on the social security agreement between Germany and your home country.
Generally speaking, you won’t qualify to get your German Pension Contributions refunded if
a) You are entitled to or are already receiving a German pension.
b) You continue to make compulsory pension contributions or are compulsorily insured in Germany.
c) You have the option of making contributions to the German pension scheme on a voluntary basis.
In short: The eligibility for Pension contribution refund for residents of Madagascar
As a citizen of Madagascar, you are generally eligible for a refund of your German pension contributions if you reside outside the EU/UK and at least 24 months have passed since your last pension contribution in Germany.
Social Security Agreements: Residency in the EU/UK
There is no bilateral social security agreement to facilitate the transfer of social security benefits between Germany and Madagascar. Therefore, your ability to make voluntary contributions to the German pension system is dependent on your place of residence.
{If you reside within the EU or the UK, you are allowed to continue making contributions to the Deutsche Rentenversicherung to qualify for a German pension (freiwillige Versicherung). Information about all social security agreements between EU member states is available online here. | If you live in the EU or the UK, you can continue to make contributions to the German pension insurance scheme (Deutsche Rentenversicherung) in order to qualify for a German pension (freiwillige Versicherung). Information on all social security agreements between EU member states is available online here.
As a result, living in the EU/UK means you are not eligible for a German pension refund because you qualify for a German pension.
However, if you live outside the EU or the UK and don’t qualify for a pension, you’re likely to be able to claim a refund 24 months after you made the last contribution.
Start Your German Pension Refund with our free Eligibility Check
Getting a refund from the German pension system can be a lengthy and complex process, often taking anywhere from several months to over half a year. For a faster and more efficient approach, consider Fundsback’s streamlined services. We are committed to enhancing your refund experience with expert guidance every step of the way.
Fundsback also provides you with important tools such as a free eligibility check and an easy-to-use refund calculator. It is designed to quickly check your eligibility and estimate your refund. The aim of the refund calculator is to provide a transparent and straightforward way to check your pension insurance record with the German pension fund and to start the refund process efficiently.
Streamline your German Pension Refund with Fundsback
Fundsback simplifies the process of boosting your Social Security benefits in Germany. Our approach is straightforward and efficient, especially designed for nationals of Madagascar seeking refunds from the German pension system. Navigating this complex process can be challenging, but our expert team is here to provide clear guidance and support, ensuring you feel informed and confident every step of the way.
At Fundsback, we’re committed to providing personalized consultations that evaluate your eligibility for a refund and aim to maximize your payout.
By choosing Fundsback, you can easily navigate the intricacies of the German pension system, confidently secure your refund, and avoid the common obstacles often encountered in the process.
