How many weeks of contributions do you need for a lifetime pension from the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) in 2025?

The Mexican Social Security Institute's ( IMSS ) lifetime pension is a system that guarantees a monthly payment for life for those who meet certain age and contribution requirements. This scheme, in effect for those covered by the 1997 Social Security Law , is one of the safest retirement options, as the payment is administered by an IMSS-authorized insurance company.

Below, we explain how many weeks you need in 2025, what documents to submit, and the step-by-step process.

Also known as a Life Annuity , it is a contract with an insurance company that guarantees a fixed monthly payment for the pensioner's entire life. In the event of death, Survivors' Insurance allows designated beneficiaries to continue receiving the pension, thus ensuring the family's financial stability.

This scheme applies exclusively to workers who contribute under Regime 97 , and its administration is regulated by the IMSS to ensure the continuity and security of payments.

In 2025, the IMSS requires compliance with the following conditions:

• A minimum of 850 weeks of contributions . This requirement increases by 25 weeks per year until reaching 1,000 in 2031.
• Age :
  • From 60 to 64 years of age for Old Age Unemployment Pension.
  • 65 years for Old Age Pension.
• Updated Worker Identification File .

Complying with these weeks is essential for the contracted insurance company to be able to grant the lifetime payment.

Before starting the process, you must gather the following documentation:

• Valid official identification .
• Afore account statement or proof of registration with your Administrator.
• Bank statement with interbank CLABE.
• Pension Resolution or Denial issued by the IMSS.

The process to apply for a lifetime pension is as follows:

1. Go to the IMSS Subdelegation with your pension application and the required documentation.
2. The IMSS will provide you with the Offer Document listing the available insurers.
3. Choose the insurance company of your choice.
4. Wait for the pension resolution .
5. Go to your selected insurer to start your monthly payment.
6. If you have funds in SAR 92 , withdraw them directly from your Afore.

The gradual increase in the number of weeks of contributions (from 750 in 2021 to 1,000 in 2031) seeks to strengthen the pension system and guarantee stable long-term payments. In 2025, failure to meet the minimum 850 weeks could result in a pension denial, leaving the alternative of withdrawing the accumulated savings from the Afore in a lump sum.

The IMSS lifetime pension under Regime 97 is one of the safest options for ensuring a lifetime income in retirement. By 2025, it's essential to have 850 weeks of contributions , the required age, and the required documentation to avoid delays or rejections. Preparing ahead of time is the best strategy to ensure a peaceful and financially stable retirement.