Andorra Bill Allows Early Retirement at 60 for Severely Disabled

The Andorran government has introduced a comprehensive bill to enhance rights for people with disabilities, enabling those with severe impairments or associated pathologies to retire at age 60—five years ahead of the standard age—due to premature ageing.

Social Affairs Minister Trini Marín announced the 76-article proposal this week, calling it an update to existing law that moves away from an assistance model toward one emphasising abilities and necessary supports. Developed in consultation with disability organisations and the National Disability Council (Conadis), the bill aligns with the 2006 UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Eligible individuals can apply directly for full CASS-funded pensions. It sets the minimum legal disability grade for those receiving CASS group 2 invalidity pensions or level 3 dependency as determined by the Covass commission, while also providing services for people with accompaniment needs below the formal disability threshold.

The legislation establishes fines for discrimination: €300 to €5,000 for minor infractions, €5,000 to €25,000 for serious ones, and €25,000 to €100,000 for the most severe, including harassment. Accessibility breaches will be assessed individually, with public administration assistance available to companies for compliance. Marín noted that the penalty structure mirrors practices in neighbouring countries.

In education, the bill guarantees equal nursery access for children with disabilities up to school age, free higher education including at the University of Andorra (UdA), and tailored apprenticeships to improve job insertion. Therapeutic activities will be open to all who require them, regardless of high invalidity degrees. Free legal technical aid is required in suspected discrimination cases, with protocols for judicial and police coordination to avoid secondary victimisation and safeguard rights in detention or trials.

The Andorran Federation of Associations for People with Disabilities (FAAD) has welcomed the early retirement option—a key long-standing request—and the free legal support, which Figueras said could prompt more complaints than the two recorded since the legislature began. Many victims hesitate due to costs or fear of attention, she explained, citing cases where medical needs took priority over legal action. Figueras stressed that removing financial barriers might encourage claims: people often have enough challenges without added procedures.

FAAD praised the sanctions as progress but suggested criminal charges for grave harassment, especially involving acquired disabilities, alongside clearer regulations listing qualifying conditions. Figueras also flagged a persistent CASS issue: it ceases recognising disabilities upon retirement, unlike the Social Affairs ministry. She described this as abnormal and contradictory, rooted in historical factors, and said FAAD plans targeted talks with CASS via its regulations soon. The federation urged quick parliamentary approval this term and offered to assist legislators.