In almost every case it makes sense. The German state pension replaces only a fraction of your income, and expats often have gaps due to time spent abroad or different contribution periods. A private pension helps close this gap, offers more flexibility, and can significantly increase your retirement income—especially when combined with tax advantages you can access as an expat.

Germany uses a three-pillar system: public pension (mandatory), company pension (via your employer), and private pension (flexible and independent). As an expat, you can use all three pillars, but private pensions often offer the best combination of growth potential, flexibility, and tax benefits. Our advisors check how the system applies to your residency status, income, and long-term plans.

Yes. Several pension products, such as the Basisrente, allow you to deduct a large portion of your contributions from your taxable income. Many expats benefit even more because they fall into higher tax brackets. This means you can save for retirement while immediately reducing your tax bill. We calculate your exact tax impact during the consultation.

Your pension rights stay with you. Depending on your nationality and the pension product you choose, you can either receive payments abroad, keep the contract running, or transfer it. Germany also has agreements with many countries to protect your entitlements. We help you understand what happens in your specific situation and make sure your plan fits your long-term mobility.

The public pension is mandatory and provides a basic retirement income. The company pension is offered by some employers and can be a great addition, but it’s not always available for expats. The private pension is the most flexible and usually offers the best long-term growth options, plus potential tax benefits. Most expats use the public pension plus a private plan to reach their income goals.