Deutschland Kompass
STEP

Sozialversicherung: Your Social Security Number

The Rentenversicherungsnummer is assigned automatically when you start your first job in Germany. Keep it for life.

WHAT TO DO

What is it and when to act?

The Sozialversicherungsnummer (RVNR) is a 12-character identifier that records your pension, health and unemployment insurance contributions. It is issued automatically when you start your first job in Germany and stays with you for life. Keep the Sozialversicherungsausweis like an important document.

Common mistake

👨🏻‍💻
Max recommends:

I threw away the Sozialversicherungsausweis as 'unnecessary paper'. Three years later I needed the number for Elterngeld (parental benefit). Had to request a duplicate and wait three weeks. The card is small — I now keep it in my passport.

Next step →

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need to apply for the Sozialversicherungsnummer? ▾

No. Your employer submits your details to Deutsche Rentenversicherung when you start your first job. They assign the number and send the Sozialversicherungsausweis by post — this takes a few weeks.

What if I lose the card? ▾

Request a free duplicate from Deutsche Rentenversicherung: online at drv.de or by post. The number stays the same — it is lifelong.

Is the Sozialversicherungsnummer used in tax returns? ▾

No — tax documents use the Steuer-ID. The Sozialversicherungsnummer is for pension contributions, sick pay, and DRV benefits. They are entirely separate systems with different numbers.

OFFICIAL SOURCES