What is a German social security number and where can I find it?

Short answer: A German social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer) is your personal identification number within the German social security system. It is also commonly called a pension insurance number (Rentenversicherungsnummer) or insurance number (Versicherungsnummer). You can usually find it on your Versicherungsnummernachweis, pension insurance documents or certain payroll-related records.

What is a German social security number? The number is used to identify you within Germany’s social insurance and statutory pension system. It is assigned only once and normally remains the same throughout your life, even if you change jobs or your surname. The German social security number consists of letters and numbers and is linked to your pension insurance record.

How do I get a social security number in Germany? If you start your first employment in Germany and do not yet have a German insurance number, your employer and the relevant social security institutions can arrange for one to be assigned. Employees generally receive a Versicherungsnummernachweis when their number is issued. If you are registered with a German statutory health insurer, your health insurance provider may also help clarify or retrieve your number.

Where can I find my social security number? The easiest place to check is your Versicherungsnummernachweis. Since 2023, this document has replaced the former Sozialversicherungsausweis, although older social security cards remain valid. You may also find your number on letters or statements from the German Pension Insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung). If you cannot find it, you can request a new proof of insurance from Deutsche Rentenversicherung or your statutory health insurance provider.

Is the social security number the same as the German Tax ID? No. Your social security number is used for social insurance and pension purposes, while your Tax ID (Steuer-ID) is used by the German tax authorities. Read our FAQ on the German Tax ID and how to get it.

For more background on pension contributions and retirement benefits, see our guide to the German pension system for expats.

Key takeaways:

• Your German social security number is also known as the Sozialversicherungsnummer, Rentenversicherungsnummer or Versicherungsnummer.
• It is generally assigned once and stays with you throughout your life.
• You can usually find it on your Versicherungsnummernachweis or documents from Deutsche Rentenversicherung.
• The social security number is different from your German Tax ID (Steuer-ID).