The health insurance system in Switzerland
Who decides what benefits are covered by basic insurance? What should I watch out for when switching health insurance? And how do premiums affect my tax situation? We take a look at the Swiss health insurance system.
Health insurance made simple
In Switzerland, basic insurance is compulsory. You can take out basic and supplemental insurance with different health insurance companies. Comparis discusses the pros and cons of having separate basic and supplemental insurance policies.
Switching health insurance
You can switch basic insurance every year without restriction. With supplemental insurance, you should not cancel your current policy until you have been accepted by the new insurer. If your medical treatment continues into the following year, your doctor should submit an end-of-year bill. This will help you avoid delayed settlement. Here’s what you need to know about switching health insurance during treatment.
Cancelling basic insurance
Thinking of switching basic health insurance? Find out in good time when your health insurer needs to receive your cancellation letter. Learn more about cancelling basic insurance.
Cancelling supplemental insurance
Do you want to cancel your supplemental insurance policy? Take note of the cancellation deadlines and only cancel when you have been accepted by the new insurer. The notice periods vary from insurer to insurer. Comparis provides an overview.
Cancellation service
Use our templates for cancelling your health insurance. Or create your cancellation letter directly.
Freedom to choose your health insurance company means that you can switch to your desired health insurance without restrictions. Full freedom only exists for your basic insurance. Health insurance companies must accept you for basic insurance.
Tips on switching health insurance
Exemption from compulsory health insurance
Although basic insurance in Switzerland is compulsory, you can be exempt in certain circumstances:
During military service
Are you doing military service for more than 60 consecutive days? If so, you can suspend basic insurance for the period of your service. Comparis explains how it works.School children, interns and students from abroad
Basic insurance for schoolchildren, interns and students from abroad can be suspended for a maximum of three years. Note that to be eligible for this exemption, you must have equivalent insurance cover from your country of origin.
Health insurance policy, law and system
The general conditions of insurance are an important component of basic and supplement insurance contracts. They specify the cover provided by the insurance product in question.
As stated in the Health Insurance Act anyone resident in Switzerland must take out health insurance. The canton of residence is responsible for ensuring this obligation is met. This ensures that the Swiss population is insured in the event of illness.
Supplemental insurance is subject to the Insurance Policies Act. Unlike basic insurance, supplemental insurance is optional and insurers are not obliged to accept all applications.
The Health Insurance Ordinance and Health Insurance Benefits Ordinance determine the benefits that compulsory health insurance must cover. They ensure that all basic insurance policies offer the same cover, irrespective of insurer.
Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)
The FOPH oversees health insurers and their provision of basic insurance cover.
Curafutura, RVK, Santésuisse and SIA
Curafutura, Santésuisse and the association of small and medium-sized health insurers (German abbreviation: RVK) are industry associations for Swiss health insurance companies. They offer services to health insurers and represent their interests before the public, politicians, authorities and other players in the healthcare sector. Some large health insurance companies are also members of the Swiss Insurance Association (SIA). This association acts in the interests of the entire private insurance industry.
Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) oversees banks, stock exchanges, financial institutions and collective investment schemes as well as their portfolio managers, fund management companies and insurance brokers. It protects creditors, investors and policyholders and ensures the proper functioning of the financial markets. In the area of health insurance, FINMA is responsible for supplemental insurance companies.
The right insurance for every situation
Health insurance for your baby
All babies must have their own basic insurance cover. You need to take out this insurance within three months of your baby’s birth. Discover the ins and outs of health insurance for your baby.
Health insurance for young adults
Children up to the age of 18 and young adults up to 25 enjoy lower premiums for basic insurance than adults aged 26 or over. Find out all you need to know about health insurance for young adults.
Health insurance for pensioners
Health insurance requirements change as you get older. Health insurance for older people − what you should take note of.
Permanent residence abroad
In certain circumstances, you can continue your Swiss basic insurance policy even if you take up permanent residence abroad. Explore the options available.
The right insurance for international travel
Sabbaticals are popular amongst Swiss people. If you intend to take a long trip, you cannot suspend or cancel your health insurance unless you move out of Switzerland permanently.
Health insurance for cross-border commuters
People who live abroad but work in Switzerland should normally take out health insurance in Switzerland. Some exceptions are possible depending on the country of residence and the nationality of the employee. Read more about health insurance for cross-border commuters and what to watch out for.
Insurance for guests and tourists
Foreign guests can take out guest insurance against accident and illness. Guest insurance is suitable for relatives and friends who are visiting you in Switzerland.
Everything you need to know about premiums, tax and fees
Medical costs and health insurance: 2023 tax return
Health insurance and age categories: will your premiums get more expensive?
Tarmed tariff system in Switzerland: what is it?
Unpaid health insurance premiums: will my benefits be suspended?
