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For foreigners moving to Switzerland, understanding the health insurance landscape is crucial. This guide will show you how to find the best health insurance available in 2024.
The Swiss healthcare system is based on a combination of public and private insurance providers. The government mandates a basic health insurance plan, but you can also choose additional, private supplementary insurance for better coverage.
Basic health insurance explained for expats
All residents in Switzerland, including newcomers, are required to have basic health insurance, which covers essential medical services such as:
- General practitioner visits
- Hospitalization (in a shared ward, without doctor choice)
- Emergency treatment
- Maternity care
- Certain medications and therapies
The cost of basic health insurance varies greatly depending on the canton of residence, age, and the chosen deductible. The cheapest rates are usually found in Zug and Schwyz, where you can expect to pay a monthly premium of at least CHF 75 for children, CHF 175 for youths, and CHF 215 for adults. The highest premiums exist in Basel-Stadt and Geneva, with rates that are almost twice as high. Premiums are adjusted annually, and premium hikes of 5-10% are expected for the next two years.
New in Switzerland? Get health insurance now!
What happens if I don’t have health insurance?
If you’re new in Switzerland and fail to register for health insurance within 3 months of arrival, the health insurers are obligated to fine you with a penalty fee, distributed over your future health insurance premiums.
More importantly, you won’t be retroactively insured, so if you have an actual health emergency, you will have to pay your own hospital bill in full. To make sure you’re not stuck with a bill of tens of thousands of francs, conclude your health insurance as soon as possible.
How to choose the best health insurance
When selecting health insurance in Switzerland, foreigners should consider the following factors:
- Coverage needs: Determine what additional services you might need beyond the basic coverage.
- Budget: Premiums can be high, so balancing cost with coverage is essential.
- Flexibility: Some plans offer more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers.
Expat Services Switzerland is here to help. We’ll personally consult you, find the best solution for your individual needs, and handle the paperwork & communication with the insurer for you. Get in touch with our independent insurance experts today.