Get a social security number (SVNR) with private or expat health insurance

The Sozialversicherungsnummer (SVNR) is your German pension number. It tracks your pension contributions and stays with you for life. If you work in Germany, you need this number to start your job. Your employer will ask for it before they can officially hire you.

If you have private or expat health insurance, you or your employer must request your SVNR from the German pension office. Your SVNR will be sent to your address by post. As the pension office manages this process, this can take up t 4 weeks.