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Starting from January 1, 2026, the new model of partial retirement will come into effect. The aim is to enable employees to continue working part-time while receiving a pension. At the same time, the previous regulations regarding phased retirement have been revised, and access has been restricted. Partial retirement is available to individuals who are entitled to a regular or early retirement pension. For corridor pensions and long-term insured pensions, the age is 62, with a gradual increase to 63 years for corridor pensions starting from January 1, 2026. The entitlement to a heavy work pension is available at the age of 60 under the appropriate conditions. The standard retirement age for a pension is 65 years for men and currently 61 years for women, with a gradual increase in half-year steps to 65 years. Application to the Pension Insurance To enter partial retirement, a written agreement for a reduction of working hours between 25% and 75% must be made with the employer in a timely manner. Additionally, an application must be submitted to the pension insurance (PV). If the pension insurance grants the partial retirement, a corresponding notice will be issued. The amount of the partial pension depends on the extent of the reduction in working hours and the total credit from the previous year (depending on the reference date), resulting in the following impacts of the reduction in working hours on the share of the total credit:

  • Reduction of 25% to 40% - Share 25%
  • Reduction of 41% to 60% - Share 50%
  • Reduction of 61% to 75% - Share 75%

There is no entitlement to partial retirement if a regular pension is already being received. Additionally, no supplementary employment that is subject to pension insurance can be taken up during partial retirement. If the allowed range of working hours is exceeded, partial retirement may be revoked under certain conditions. Phased Retirement In parallel with the introduction of partial retirement, access to phased retirement is significantly restricted. Previously, receiving phased retirement benefits was possible for a maximum of five years before reaching the standard retirement age; now this period has been limited to three years before meeting the eligibility requirements for a corridor pension or before reaching the standard retirement age. Furthermore, the required insurance period for entitlement to phased retirement benefits (eligibility) will be gradually increased from 780 to 884 weeks. Additionally, there are new restrictions on side jobs: any additional employment with another employer will lead to the loss of entitlement to phased retirement benefits. Furthermore, the financial incentive for employers will be reduced: for example, the compensation for wage replacement will decrease from 90% to 80% starting in 2026. Conclusion
With the introduction of partial retirement, a flexible transition from working life to retirement is created, but under clearly regulated conditions. At the same time, access to phased retirement is restricted. The goal is better planning and security in the transition phase to retirement, both for employees and for the pension system.