INSS expands list of diseases for benefits without contribution minimum

The Brazilian Ministry of Social Security has expanded the list of health conditions that allow for the granting of temporary incapacity benefits (formerly known as sickness benefits) and permanent incapacity retirement without the standard 12-month minimum contribution requirement (carência).

Following an interministerial ordinance signed by Ministers Wolney Queiroz and Alexandre Padilha, the list now includes 18 conditions. The most recent addition is high-risk pregnancy. Other conditions on the list include active tuberculosis, leprosy, severe mental disorders with alienation, malignant neoplasm (cancer), blindness, irreversible paralysis, severe heart disease, Parkinson's disease, severe kidney disease, AIDS, and acute stroke.

To qualify for this exemption, the INSS requires that the condition presents an acute clinical evolution—meaning a sudden onset rather than a chronic episode—and meets specific severity criteria, such as imminent risk of death or loss of organ function. Additionally, the applicant must maintain their status as an insured person and provide medical documentation, such as a diagnosis with the International Classification of Diseases (CID) code, to undergo a medical evaluation.