How to Get a Social Security Number in Germany

If you’ve recently moved to Germany, one of the most important things you should do is understand the German social security system. The first step in this journey is obtaining your social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer) which is used to track your contributions to the German social security system. Whether you're an employee, freelancer, or student, this 12-digit number is essential to access benefits related to your pension contributions, like e.g. unemployment benefits. 

German Social Security Card Sample

This article will guide you through the process of getting a social security number. It will cover everything from the purpose of the social security number to the steps you need to take to apply, based on your specific circumstances.

What is the Social Security Number in Germany?

A German social security number is a 12-digit identifier that is assigned by the German Pension Insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung). Unlike tax IDs or residence permits, your social security number specifically lets you track your contributions to Germany’s welfare programs like pension funds, medical rehabilitation and unemployment insurance.

The Sozialversicherungsnummer has a specific structure: 13 220483 B 653 and is made of four sections:

1. Registration Office Code: This identifies the office where you were registered. For example, the code for Munich is “04”.

2. Date of Birth: If the person was born on April 22, 1983, it would be “220483”.

3. Surname Initial: The first letter of the last name is “B” (for Bauer).

4. Differentiator: The final section makes you different from others who might have the same birth date and surname initial.

   
   

The German social security number is assigned for life, meaning changes in your employment or residence status won’t affect it in any way. Even if you leave Germany but later come back to work or retire here, you will still use the same number.  

Why Do You Need a German Social Security Number?

A Sozialversicherungsnummer is an integral part of the German social security system. Here's why:

1. Health Insurance:

   Having health insurance is mandatory, and your social security number is required to register with the German public health insurance system (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung).

   
   

2. Pension Contributions:

   The number is used to track your contributions to the German pension system (Deutsche Rentenversicherung), ensuring that you will receive pension benefits once you retire. If you're planning to leave the country, you might be eligible for a German pension refund based on your contributions.

   
   

3. Unemployment Insurance:

   If you lose your job you can use your Sozialversicherungsnummer to get unemployment benefits.

   
   

4. Social Benefits:

   The number allows you to apply for various social benefits, such as parental leave benefits, child benefits, and other government subsidies.

   
   

The Sozialversicherungsnummer is not just for tracking your social security contributions to Germany's welfare system. It's also very important for getting many benefits and services while you're in Germany.

Who Can Apply for a Social Security Number?

Anyone planning to work or study in Germany and participate in the social security system will need this number.

• Employees

If you are employed by a German company you are required to have a social security number. This rule applies to both German citizens and foreign nationals working in Germany.

• Freelancers

Freelancers typically need a social security number if they contribute to public pension insurance.

• Students

International students working part-time or completing internships must apply for this number to meet employment requirements.

• Residents New to Germany

If you're moving to Germany for work, study, or family reasons and plan to work there or use their welfare system, getting a social security number should be your priority.

How to Apply for Your Social Security Number

Getting a Sozialversicherungsnummer depends on your situation. If you're employed, self-employed, or a student, the application process is different. Below, we break down the application process for each type of applicant.

Applying as an Employee

If you work for a company in Germany, the application process is quite simple. Usually, your employer will take care of most of the paperwork. Here's how it generally goes:

1. Registration at the Bürgeramt: First, you'll need to register your address at the Bürgeramt (local registration office) in the city where you live. This is a requirement for all residents of Germany.

   
   

2. Employer's Role: Once you give your address, your employer will share your information with the Social Security office. This is part of your employment agreement. Your employer will provide all the needed documents and details for you, such as your job status and pay.

   
   

3. Required Documents: You'll need to present your passport or ID, proof of address (from your registration at the Bürgeramt), and employment contract (if applicable). Employers often require a work permit for non-EU nationals.

   
   

4. Waiting for the Number: After your employer sends the needed papers, the Social Security office will work on your application. This might take a few weeks. Once it's done, they will mail you your Sozialversicherungsnummer.

   
   

As an employee, you don't need to apply for a social security number yourself. But, you should make sure your employer takes care of the registration process correctly.

Applying as a Self-Employed Individual or Freelancer

If you're self-employed or working as a freelancer in Germany, you have to apply for your social security number on your own:

1. Register with the Finanzamt: The first step is registering with the Finanzamt (German tax office). This is required for tax purposes, and during this process, you’ll also need to apply for your Tax Identification Number (Steueridentifikationsnummer), which is different from your Sozialversicherungsnummer.

   
   

2. Contact the Deutsche Rentenversicherung: The next step is to apply directly with the Deutsche Rentenversicherung (German pension office), which also handles matters such as the German pension refund for eligible former residents.

   
   

3. Submit Required Documents: You will need to submit proof of identity, proof of residence, tax registration details, and any other documents relevant to your self-employment ( contracts with clients, invoices, and other relevant information).

   
   

4. Making Contributions: If you're self-employed in Germany, you need to contribute to the country's social insurance system. You'll need to register for these contributions and set up a system to make payments on an ongoing basis.

   
   

Student Applications

Students in Germany who work part-time or as interns are also required to apply for a social security number, especially if they are employed under a contract.

1. Register Your Address:

   As a student, you will have to register your address at the Bürgeramt in the city where you are living, similar to other residents.

   
   

2. Check with Your Employer: If you’re employed part-time or on an internship, your employer will usually handle your social security number application as part of your employment paperwork.

   
   

3. Provide Necessary Documents: You will need to submit a valid student ID, proof of enrollment in a German university, your passport, and the confirmation of city registration (“Anmeldung”).

   
   

Steps to Obtain Your Social Security Number

No matter your situation, follow these steps to get your number:

1. Register Your Address

First, you must register your address at the Bürgeramt. All residents in Germany must do this, whether they are employed or not.

2. Choose a Health Insurance Provider

   Register with a statutory health insurance company like AOK, TK, or Barmer if you’re employed or studying. 

   
   

3. Submit Your Details

   Your provider or employer will send your information to Deutsche Rentenversicherung. Freelancers and self-applicants must submit applications on their own.

   
   

4. Prepare Documentation

   Typically you will need:

   • Passport or national ID

   • Proof of residence in Germany

   • Employment contract or other relevant proofs

     
     

5. Wait for Confirmation

   Applications take around 2–4 weeks to process.

   
   

How to Check the Status of Your Social Security Number

Delays can happen, but there are ways to track your application:

1. Health Insurance Provider

   Employees can start by contacting their public health insurer for updates.

   
   

2. Deutsche Rentenversicherung Hotline

   Call the hotline with your application reference number for assistance.

   
   

3. Visit an Office Personally

   If your situation is urgent, you can visit a Deutsche Rentenversicherung office to inquire in person.

   
   

FAQ

What if I lose my Social Security Number?

Don't worry if you lose your social security number card (Sozoialversicherungsausweis) or documents containing the number. You can easily request a duplicate from the Deutsche Rentenversicherung. But keep in mind that it is important to keep your social security number safe as you will need it often while living in Germany. 

Can I apply online?

Getting a social security number in Germany means some paperwork. In most cases, applicants have to go to an office to apply or send their application by mail. Some regions let people use online services to check on their applications or change their information.

How long does it take to get my Social Security Number?

Getting a social security number in Germany can take 2 to 6 weeks. The time it takes depends on how you apply and your situation. Employees usually get their number faster because their employer takes care of the process. Self-employed people may have to wait longer.