Separate Social Security Scheme and Recognition of Foreign Contribution Periods Prior to January 1, 1996

In Circular No. 22 of January 23, 2025, the Italian National Social Security Institute (INPS) provided clarifications regarding the recognition of foreign work periods before January 1, 1996, for individuals enrolled in the Separate Social Security Scheme (“Gestione Separata”).

Recognition of Foreign Contribution Periods Before 1996

Foreign contribution periods accrued before January 1, 1996, are considered valid for pension eligibility under international agreements. However, their recognition is based solely on contributions paid into the Gestione Separata, applying the rules for workers with contribution history as of December 31, 1995, and in accordance with the contributory pension system.

Eligible Countries and International Totalization

These foreign contribution periods can be recognized if accrued in countries that:

• Apply EU regulations on social security;
• Are non-EU countries with which Italy has signed bilateral agreements allowing for international totalization.

Totalization is only possible if the individual has accrued the minimum required contributions in Italy’s Gestione Separata, which is at least 52 weeks under EU regulations or as specified in individual bilateral agreements.

Old-Age Pension Requirements

For workers with contribution history as of December 31, 1995:

• There is no requirement to meet a minimum pension threshold;
• They cannot access old-age pension at 71 years with at least five years of actual contributions, nor early retirement at 64 years with at least 20 years of actual contributions.

These requirements are subject to adjustments based on life expectancy.

Foreign Contribution Periods After 1996

If all foreign work periods occur after January 1, 1996, the Gestione Separata pension under international agreements will be calculated according to the contributory system’s requirements.

Enrollment in Other Mandatory Pension Schemes

If the individual is also enrolled in other mandatory pension schemes in Italy, foreign contribution periods before 1996 can be used to qualify for a pension under international aggregation rules, leveraging the cumulative contribution mechanisms provided by Italian legislation.