Recently, the National Social Security Institute (INSS) took an important step in its inclusion mission by increasing the availability of service in Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) for deaf individuals. This service, which was already available in Esperantina (PI), now extends to eight more cities in various parts of Brazil. Additionally, the video conference service remains accessible for insured individuals throughout the national territory.
The initiative aims to alleviate communication barriers faced by deaf citizens who need to request social security services, such as retirements and pensions. With the possibility of direct service in Libras, insured individuals can manage their requests without depending on family members or interpreters, favoring their autonomy in this process.
The recent expansion of the service is in line with other INSS actions aimed at improving accessibility and facilitating access to essential services for people with special needs.
How Libras Service Works
Specialized professionals from the INSS provide the service in Libras. At the agencies that are part of this program, insured individuals have the opportunity to communicate directly in Libras, which enhances clarity in interaction and ensures more effective service. In Esperantina, an employee underwent specific training to perform this role.
In addition to in-person service, the INSS also offers the Libras Service Center (CAL), which allows citizens across Brazil to use the service via video conference. This option ensures that residents in areas without qualified professionals can receive assistance online.
Cities with In-Person Service
As announced by the INSS, in-person service in Libras is now available in the following locations:
- Esperantina (PI);
- Sorocaba (SP);
- Rio de Janeiro – CIAD (RJ);
- Gama (DF);
- Campo Grande (MS);
- Paulista (PE);
- Maringá (PR);
- Torres (RS);
- Nova Prata (RS).
The INSS states that there are plans to expand this list as more employees are trained for service in Libras.
How to Schedule Virtual Service?
Those who wish to schedule a video conference appointment can use the Meu INSS portal or app. The process is easy and consists of the following steps:
- Access Meu INSS with a Gov.br account;
- Use the search tool;
- Search for “Libras”;
- Select the service “Virtual Attendance in Libras”;
- Choose an available date;
- Confirm the appointment.
After confirmation, an email with the link for the video conference will be sent to the user on the scheduled date.
Available Services
Insured individuals who opt for service in Libras will be able to access most services available at Social Security agencies, such as:
- retirement;
- death pension;
- temporary incapacity aid;
- Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC);
- registration update;
- document issuance;
- guidance on claims and social security benefits.
Importance of the Measure
The extension of service in Libras is an important milestone in promoting accessibility, considering that millions of Brazilians face hearing difficulties. Despite advances in the digitization of public services, communication barriers still persist in in-person services. Therefore, the INSS seeks to ensure more rights for deaf insured individuals, reducing dependence on third parties and promoting access to norms that guarantee inclusion.
Future Perspectives
The INSS announced that it will continue to offer the Libras Service Center via video conference and plans to expand in-person service as more professionals are trained. This strategy is part of an overall approach to humanize social security services, integrating in-person services with digital solutions that are accessible to all insured individuals.