If you have worked in Germany for more than five years, you will receive a state pension (Pillar 1) proportional to the value of the contributions you made. For the standard old-age pension the minimum qualifying period is five years. Theoretically, you can receive this pension anywhere in the world, but your location may impact the payments you receive. You will find all relevant information on German Pensions in the brochure Working in Germany and the United States of America. The claim can only be made 2 years after leaving Europe (EU/EEA/CH). Conversely, a person can continue to work after reaching retirement age. Note that only the employee contributions are refunded, not the employer's. This brochure is available on the website of the Deutsche Rentenversicherung : www.deutsche-rentenversicherung-bund.de Brochure - Working in Germany and the United States of America
This is dependent on the type of German pension you are applying for. More details on the German pension system can be found at www.deutsche-rentenversicherung-bund.de. There are a number of ways that early retirement can start – for example at age 63 if a person has contributed to the system for 45 years. Pension refunds on leaving Germany US and various other non-EU citizens can claim back their German state pension contributions if they contribute in Germany for less than 5 years (60 monthly contributions). The payment process alone to a foreign account can take an extra 2 months after your refund as been formally approved. Pensions for expats Those who have contributed for at least 35 years can also take early retirement but will have a slightly reduced benefit. If you still maintain a German bank account at that time it can speed up the payment to you if you use this account. How can you secure your pension? It may require a minimum qualification period of working and paying German social security for 5, 20, 25, 35, or 45 years. Have you worked in Germany and live in the U.S. now?