In a major policy shift, Mexico’s Social Security Institute (IMSS) has approved a measure to extend healthcare coverage to repatriated Mexican citizens and their legal dependents. This initiative, part of the “México te Abraza” program, aims to provide medical, hospital, and maternity care to individuals returning from the United States.
The policy is part of a presidential decree published on January 24, 2025, in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF), reinforcing Mexico’s commitment to ensuring healthcare access for those returning to their home country.
What Healthcare Benefits Will Repatriated Mexicans Receive?
Under this initiative, repatriated Mexicans will be automatically enrolled in IMSS healthcare services for a period of up to three months. The coverage includes:
- Medical and surgical assistance
- Pharmaceutical services
- Hospital care
- Obstetric care for maternity services
These benefits are designed to facilitate the reintegration process of repatriated individuals, ensuring they receive essential healthcare while seeking employment or resettling in their communities.
How Will the IMSS Repatriation Program Work?
The National Institute of Migration (INM) will play a key role in the implementation of this initiative. The process follows these steps:
- The INM will provide IMSS with the CURP of each repatriated individual.
- IMSS will generate a Social Security Number (NSS) for each repatriated person.
- Eligible individuals can register their dependents online or at their nearest IMSS clinic.
Individuals can complete their registration through:
The IMSS Digital portal
The IMSS mobile application
In-person visits to local IMSS Family Medicine Units (UMF)
This streamlined process ensures that repatriated individuals and their families can access healthcare as soon as they return to Mexico.
Who Qualifies for IMSS Coverage Under This Program?
- Mexican citizens repatriated from the U.S. who receive an official Certificate of Repatriation from the INM.
- Their legal dependents, including spouses and children.
Individuals who secure formal employment or choose to enroll voluntarily in Mexico’s mandatory social security system will transition out of the temporary three-month coverage and into a long-term healthcare plan.
Government Agencies Collaborate to Support Repatriated Mexicans
IMSS is working closely with 34 federal and state agencies to ensure the success of this initiative. Key collaborators include:
- The Secretariat of the Interior (SEGOB)
- The National Institute of Migration (INM)
- The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS)
In border states, where the highest volume of repatriated individuals enter, IMSS representatives will visit migrant shelters to assist with enrollment and provide information about their benefits.
Why Is This Initiative Important?
This healthcare measure aligns with international labor agreements that Mexico has signed, ensuring that repatriated individuals receive basic health services during their transition period.
- Most repatriated individuals are young men who had steady employment in the U.S.
- The program aims to support their reintegration into Mexico’s workforce.
- Employment services will assist them in securing jobs through government job placement programs.
IMSS Director Zoé Robledo emphasized that Mexico’s social security system is embracing repatriated citizens, reinforcing the idea that healthcare is a fundamental right.
“This is one of the greatest expressions of solidarity. The name of the program, ‘México te Abraza,’ truly reflects the embrace of social security.”
Final Thoughts: A Step Forward for Migrant Healthcare in Mexico
This initiative marks a significant step toward social security reform in Mexico, ensuring that repatriated citizens have immediate access to essential healthcare services.
- Three months of guaranteed IMSS coverage for repatriated individuals.
- Streamlined digital registration process for quicker access to healthcare.
- Collaboration between government agencies to support reintegration.
With healthcare access secured, repatriated individuals can focus on rebuilding their lives, contributing to Mexico’s economy, and accessing employment opportunities through government programs.
This proactive approach by IMSS demonstrates Mexico’s commitment to supporting its returning citizens, ensuring that no repatriated Mexican is left without healthcare assistance.
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