Insurance for expats
Health and liability insurance in Switzerland, explained for expats
Compulsory health insurance, liability cover your landlord expects, car insurance, the 3rd pillar. The Swiss system is thorough, but it is not intuitive. We explain it in English and look at your cover with you in a free first consultation.
Where newcomers lose money
Common mistakes in the first years
Nobody explains the Swiss insurance system when you sign your employment contract. These are the points that cost expats the most.
The wrong deductible and model
Health insurance premiums depend heavily on your deductible (Franchise) and model, such as family doctor or telemedicine. Choosing without understanding them is where many expats lose money, according to expat-savvy.ch.
Missing the three month deadline
When you move to Switzerland, you must take out compulsory health insurance (KVG / LAMal) within three months. If you register late, you may have to pay a surcharge on your premiums.
No personal liability cover
Private liability insurance is not required by law, but many landlords expect it. It pays if you accidentally damage someone else’s property, for example a flooded bathroom in your flat.
Unused tax savings
Payments into the 3rd pillar (Säule 3a) reduce your taxable income. Many expats skip it because they are unsure what happens if they leave Switzerland. That question has a clear answer.
Topics
What we look at with you
Health insurance (KVG / LAMal)
Basic cover is compulsory and the same at every insurer. Premiums, deductibles and models differ. Supplementary insurance for dental care or private hospital rooms is optional.
Household and personal liability
Household contents insurance (Hausrat) covers your belongings against fire, water and theft. Personal liability (Privathaftpflicht) covers damage you cause to others. Often combined in one policy.
Car insurance
Third party liability is compulsory for every car. Partial or comprehensive cover (Teilkasko / Vollkasko) is optional, and often required for leased or financed cars.
3rd pillar and pension (Säule 3a)
Private pension savings on top of the AHV (1st pillar) and your employer’s pension fund (2nd pillar). Payments are tax deductible within the legal limits.
Legal protection (Rechtsschutz)
Pays for legal advice and costs in disputes, for example with a landlord or an employer. Useful when you do not yet know the Swiss system.
Who advises you
A registered adviser, no premium promises
Insurance advice is given by Ronny Schürch, registered independent (untied) insurance intermediary (FINMA F01174019), on behalf of NVC AG, Basel. The first consultation is free of charge and without obligation.
We do not promise a specific premium or saving. What you pay depends on your canton, your age, your deductible and your cover. What we can do is explain your options so that you decide with a clear picture.
This page explains the topics in English. Swiss insurance policies and general terms are usually in German, French or Italian. Planning a larger purchase at the same time? See the loan calculator or the eligibility page.
Free first consultation
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Questions
About insurance in Switzerland
When do I need Swiss health insurance?
Within three months of taking up residence in Switzerland. Cover then applies from the day you arrived. In some cases, for example with certain insurance from an EU country, an exemption is possible. The cantonal office decides.
Is liability insurance compulsory in Switzerland?
Personal liability insurance is not compulsory by law, but many landlords ask for it when you rent a flat. For cars, third party liability insurance is compulsory.
What happens to my 3rd pillar if I leave Switzerland?
If you leave Switzerland for good, you can usually withdraw your Säule 3a savings. The details depend on your situation and the destination country. We explain them in the consultation.
What about a rental deposit?
A landlord may ask for a deposit of up to three months’ rent, usually paid into a blocked account in your name. Some insurers offer a guarantee instead. Ask us in the consultation whether that makes sense for you.
What does the consultation cost?
The first consultation is free of charge and without obligation. You decide afterwards whether you want to change anything.