I worked in Germany on Green Card from Jan 2001 to Dec 2003. After laying off I lived in Germany for a further one year and finally left in Dec 2004. Now I'm in a very interesting situation. I will be getting a job offer again and will be returning back in a couple of months. My rente money (36 months contributions) is still with the german government.

1) Should I claim that money before I start working again? (from local consulate)
2) If I don't get that money, will those 36 months could considered in 60 months eligibility for PR (Permenant Residence)?

I need an experts advice!

1) Should I claim that money before I start working again? (from local consulate)

--> It all depends on your future plans.

2) If I don't get that money, will those 36 months could considered in 60 months eligibility for PR (Permenant Residence)?

--> I am not sure if your previous stay in the country can be counted towards your PR, but your Pension money is counted if you have not claimed them back.

@rkumar

For PR you need to have a minimum uninterrupted stay of 60 months in Germany. Any break over 6 months would restart the clock.

For example:
If you have stayed for 59 months and left and after one year you come back then you need to stay another 60 months to get your PR....that would be 59 + 60 = 119 months altogether.

The funny part is, if you could provide reasonable grounds for your longer absence, you might be able to qualify for german citizenship but not german PR :-)

Thanks guys, you are very helpful and supportive.
C U back in Germany!

@Akshay,

Have anyone tried to justify longer absense?
HAve it been ever accepted?

regards