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two ladies talking about vocational rehabilitation

Criteria for vocational rehabilitation under the occupational pension system

07.10.2025
Spring HouseEmployee Well-being

Vocational rehabilitation under the earnings-related pension system is an important way to support employees who face health challenges in their work. its goal is to enable people to continue working or return to work in roles that suit their health condition. for example, after a long sick leave, vocational rehabilitation can play a key role in returning to employment.

Before starting rehabilitation, it must be ensured that the eligibility criteria are met. below are the key conditions that determine the right to vocational rehabilitation under the earnings-related pension system.

Eligibility criteria for vocational rehabilitation

  • Age: you are below the minimum retirement age.
  • Medical reason: you have an illness or disability that is likely to lead to a risk of disability pension in the near future.
  • Supporting work ability: the risk of disability can be postponed or prevented through vocational rehabilitation.
  • Income threshold: during the past five calendar years, your total earnings have been at least €41,143.38 (as of 2024).
  • Insured earnings: you have insured income under the earnings-related pension acts, or you have cared for a child under the age of three within the last 36 months.
  • No other rehabilitation rights: you are not entitled to rehabilitation under accident or motor insurance.

Vocational rehabilitation provides practical solutions for maintaining work ability. if you meet the above criteria, it can be a step toward a smoother return to work and continued participation in working life. for more detailed information and guidance, contact your pension insurance company.