Pension benefits and contribution rules for Bosnia and Herzegovina citizens

Pension regulations and benefits for citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina working in EU countries like Germany, Austria, and Slovenia are subject to specific international agreements. In Germany, the Deutsche Rentenversicherung manages pension insurance. While some believe they can reclaim all contributions upon returning to Bosnia and Herzegovina, German law (SGB VI) stipulates that refunds are only possible in specific cases, such as after 24 months of non-insurance coverage and if the individual is not eligible for voluntary insurance.

Separately, the Croatian government has announced an increase in the annual pension supplement. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković stated that the supplement will rise to seven euros for every year of pensionable service, up from six euros last year. This decision directly impacts tens of thousands of retirees in Bosnia and Herzegovina who receive Croatian pensions or proportional parts for years worked in Croatia. The payment is expected to be processed automatically in December based on full years of recognized service.