Set Up Health Insurance in Switzerland (2026) – Newcomer Guide
All residents must set up basic health insurance (KVG/LAMal) within 3 months of arrival. We help you compare, apply, and secure the best coverage quickly.
Deadline: You have 3 months from arrival to set up health insurance in Switzerland
What You Must Know
Mandatory Rule
All residents must register for basic health insurance within 3 months of arrival. Coverage is backdated to your arrival date.
Who Must Apply
Expats, families, students, researchers, all residents regardless of nationality or employment status.
What's Covered
Doctor visits, hospital stays, maternity care, prescriptions, emergency treatment, and preventive care.
How to Set Up Your Health Insurance
Follow these 4 steps to get your Swiss health insurance sorted quickly and correctly.
Compare Models & Premiums
Research Standard, HMO, Family Doctor, and Telmed models. Compare premiums across different insurers for your canton.
Use official comparison tools or work with independent brokers to understand your options.
Choose Insurer
Select your preferred insurance company. All insurers must accept you for basic coverage - no medical exam required.
Consider factors like customer service, digital tools, and English support.
Submit Documents
Provide passport/ID, residence permit, Swiss address registration, and bank account details.
Applications can usually be completed online or via phone with English support.
Confirm Policy & Receive Card
Review your policy details, set up payment method, and receive your insurance card within 2-3 weeks.
Keep your insurance card with you at all times for medical appointments.
Which Model Should You Choose?
Compare the four main insurance models available to find the right balance of flexibility and savings.
| Model | Description | Savings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Any doctor, highest cost | 0% | Maximum flexibility, direct specialist access |
| HMO | Health center first, save up to 20% | Up to 20% | Significant savings, integrated care |
| Family Doctor | One doctor as gatekeeper, coordinated care | Up to 15% | Personal relationship, coordinated care |
| Telmed | Call hotline before doctor visits, often cheapest | Up to 15% | Convenience, savings |
Supplementary Insurance Options
Optional Add-Ons
Popular Supplementary Coverage:
- • Dental care and orthodontics
- • Private/semi-private hospital rooms
- • Vision care and glasses
- • Preventive care and wellness
- • Maternity extras and birth preparation
Important for Supplementary:
Supplementary insurance requires a health questionnaire. Apply early if you want additional coverage, as insurers can reject you or exclude pre-existing conditions.
Regional Guidance
Premiums vary significantly by canton. Here's what to expect in major Swiss cities:
Premium Tip: Compare prices across cantons if you're flexible about where to live. Use our premium calculator →
How Expat-Savvy Helps Newcomers
English Support
Free consultations in English, outside office hours. No language barriers when setting up your insurance.
Independent Broker
Compare offers from all major insurers: CSS, Helsana, SWICA, Sanitas, Concordia, and more.
Paperwork Handled
We handle applications, ensure deadlines are met, and guide you through the entire process.
Personalized Comparison
Get 3 tailored offers based on your specific needs, budget, and location.
Don't risk mistakes or miss deadlines —
Newcomer Questions Answered
When does the 3-month deadline start counting?
The 3-month deadline starts from your official registration date in Switzerland (Anmeldung), not your arrival date. You must have basic health insurance in place within this timeframe, with coverage backdated to your registration date.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
If you miss the deadline, your cantonal authority will automatically assign you to an insurance provider. You'll still pay premiums backdated to your arrival date, but you lose the ability to choose your insurer and may face higher costs.
Can I keep my international insurance?
No, international insurance does not fulfill the Swiss mandatory health insurance requirement. You must have Swiss basic health insurance (KVG/LAMal) regardless of any other coverage you maintain.
Do children need separate policies?
Yes, each child needs their own health insurance policy from birth. However, children under 18 receive heavily subsidized premiums (typically CHF 100-150/month vs CHF 300-400+ for adults).
Is dental covered by basic insurance?
No, basic insurance only covers dental treatment caused by serious illness or accidents. For routine dental care, you need separate dental insurance or pay out-of-pocket (typically CHF 100-200 for cleanings).
Can I apply before getting my permit?
You can start the application process, but most insurers require your residence permit and official address registration to finalize the policy. Contact insurers early to prepare your application.
Ready to Set Up Your Swiss Health Insurance?
Don't let the 3-month deadline catch you off guard. Get expert help to choose the right coverage and avoid costly mistakes.
