Swiss Health Insurance for Expats
Your complete guide to mandatory insurance, choosing the right plan, and saving money — written for English-speaking residents.
How Swiss Health Insurance Works
Switzerland requires every resident to have basic health insurance (KVG/LAMal). The coverage is identical no matter which insurer you choose — what differs are premiums, customer service, and digital tools. You must register within 3 months of arriving in Switzerland.
Beyond the mandatory plan, you can add supplementary insurance (VVG) for extras like dental, private hospital rooms, or alternative medicine. Unlike basic insurance, supplementary plans vary between insurers and acceptance isn't guaranteed.
New to Switzerland? Read our step-by-step setup guide. Interested in supplementary coverage? See our private insurance overview.
Not sure which insurer to pick? See our expert comparison of the best health insurers in Switzerland for 2026 — with side-by-side analysis of the top 6 providers and personalized recommendations.
Explore by Topic
Find the right guide for your situation.
Best Health Insurance 2026
Side-by-side comparison of Switzerland's top 6 insurers for expats.
Set Up Health Insurance
New to Switzerland? Documents, deadlines, and step-by-step registration.
Choose Your Deductible
Find your break-even point and decide between CHF 300 and CHF 2,500.
Compare Insurance Models
Standard vs HMO vs GP vs Telmed — which saves money without losing quality?
Switch Your Insurer
Deadlines, cancellation letters, and a smooth handover checklist.
Insurance by City
Canton-specific premiums and recommendations for Zurich, Basel, Geneva, and more.
Compare Providers Head-to-Head
Swica vs Helsana, CSS vs Sanitas — pick any two and see how they stack up.
Premium Subsidies
Check your eligibility and learn how to apply for Prämienverbilligung.
Quick Cost Overview
Health insurance premiums vary by canton, age, deductible, and model. Here are typical 2026 ranges:
| Category | Range (2026) |
|---|---|
| Adults (Zurich, standard model) | CHF 340 – 460 / month |
| Children | CHF 100 – 150 / month |
| Supplementary insurance | CHF 50 – 300+ / month |
Browse All Insurers
Click any provider to read our full review.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Every person living in Switzerland — including expats, students, newborns, and most cross-border workers — must have basic health insurance (KVG/LAMal). You have 3 months from your arrival or registration date. Coverage is retroactive to day one.
- Your canton will assign you to an insurer, often at higher premiums. You may also face retroactive premium payments and penalties. Register as soon as possible after arriving to avoid unnecessary costs.
- Basic insurance (KVG) is mandatory and covers doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and maternity. Coverage is identical across all insurers — only premiums differ. Supplementary insurance (VVG) is optional and covers extras like dental, private rooms, and alternative medicine. Insurers can reject VVG applications.
- Choose a higher deductible (up to CHF 2,500), select an alternative model (HMO, Telmed, or GP), exclude accident coverage if employed 8+ hours/week, and compare providers annually. Combining strategies can save 20-30% on premiums.
- For basic insurance, submit your cancellation letter by 30 November for coverage starting 1 January. Some insurers also allow a mid-year switch on 1 July with a 3-month notice period. Supplementary insurance deadlines vary by provider.
Who must have health insurance in Switzerland?
What happens if I miss the 3-month registration deadline?
What is the difference between basic and supplementary insurance?
How can I reduce my health insurance premiums?
When is the deadline to switch health insurers?
Need help choosing?
Get your free, independent comparison from our FINMA-certified team.
