What Happens to My German Pension When I Move to Thailand?

I Keep Seeing the Same Mistake

When someone contacts me for the first time and says, "I want to move to Thailand, but my pension will still be paid anyway," I pause. Because that statement isn't quite true. Yes, the German state pension is generally paid abroad – but it's not guaranteed, and there are pitfalls that many don't see coming – and they can hurt badly later.

I've been guiding Germans who want to spend their retirement in Pattaya or Phuket for years. And I've learned: If you don't think through your pension and retirement savings before you move, you may end up with a pile of problems. So let me walk you through the key points.

The State Pension in Thailand: Yes, It's Paid – But Not Automatically

Your German state pension will typically be paid even if you live in Thailand. That's the good news. But: You have to apply for it before you leave. Sounds trivial, but I regularly see people who think it just keeps running. It doesn't.

You need a so-called "proof of residence" (life certificate) that you must have certified every year by a Thai authority or the German embassy. Without it, your pension may be suspended. I advise my clients to contact the embassy right after arrival and get the form. Most pensioners receive the form automatically from the German Pension Insurance – but if you move, it can get lost. So: take initiative.

Another point: The pension insurance typically only pays to a German bank account. So you need an account in Germany, from which you then transfer yourself, or a bank in Thailand that does it for you. Some banks offer automatic transfers, but the fees can quickly eat into your pension. I recommend finding a cheap transfer solution locally – not just taking the first bank.

Private Pension and Riester: Beware of Payout Issues

This is where it often gets really expensive. Many private pension plans or Riester contracts are tied to your residence in Germany. Once you move your main residence to Thailand, contracts can be terminated or tax disadvantages may arise. I've seen cases where people had to repay their Riester subsidies in some cases because they moved abroad.

My advice: Inform yourself about every single contract before you emigrate. Ask the insurance company if a payout abroad is possible and what the tax consequences might be. And get advice from an independent tax advisor – not from your insurance agent, who just wants to sell.

Health Insurance: The Biggest Cost Trap

This is the point most people underestimate. In Germany, you are compulsorily insured under the statutory health insurance. In Thailand, you are not. When you emigrate, your German health insurance typically ends – unless you remain voluntarily insured. But that's expensive and often not sensible.

Most of my clients take out private health insurance in Thailand. Costs vary widely: For a 60-year-old with pre-existing conditions, the premium can roughly be 300–500 euros per month. And the older you get, the more expensive it typically becomes. Some insurers increase premiums by 10–15 percent annually. You should factor this into your pension planning.

I always advise: Get insurance that covers inpatient treatment in Thailand, but not necessarily the most expensive international policy. And read the fine print: Many policies don't cover pre-existing conditions or have waiting periods. If you come to Thailand at 65 and only then look for insurance, you often have a problem.

Taxes: Avoid Double Taxation

Germany and Thailand have a double taxation agreement. This means: Your pension is generally taxed in Germany, not in Thailand. But there are exceptions. If you have additional income in Thailand – for example from renting or work – it can get complicated.

I recommend everyone to consult a tax advisor who knows German-Thai tax law before emigrating. It costs a few hundred euros but can potentially save thousands. And no, I'm not a tax advisor – I'm just passing on what I see with my clients.

Conclusion: Plan Your Pension Like Your Visa

Taking your pension to Thailand is possible, but not trivial. You need to actively apply for the state pension and have it confirmed annually. Check private contracts. Get health insurance that fits your age and health. And clarify the tax question.

I see too many people who take this lightly and then end up in a mess in Thailand. Take the time, make a list, get professional help. Your pension is your livelihood – treat it that way.

If you have specific questions, write to me. I can't give legal advice, but I know the practice and the pitfalls. And sometimes that's exactly what's missing.

If you're planning to move to Thailand, I'll go through what that means for your pension with you.