Student Insurance in Switzerland
Understanding your insurance options as a student in Switzerland. Compare Swisscare and mandatory insurance to make the right choice for your situation.
Swisscare Eligibility
Who Can Use Swisscare?
- Students under 35 years old
- Enrolled in recognized Swiss educational institution
- Not working more than 20 hours per week
- Temporary residence permit (B permit for education)
- Maximum coverage duration of 6 years
Who Cannot Use Swisscare?
- Students over 35 years old
- Working more than 20 hours per week
- Permanent residents (C permit)
- Students with family members in Switzerland
- PhD students with employment contracts
Mandatory Insurance (KVG/LAMal)
Who Needs It?
- Students over 35 years old
- Working students (>20 hours/week)
- Students with family in Switzerland
- PhD students with employment contracts
- Students staying longer than 6 years
Key Benefits
- Comprehensive coverage
- No age restrictions
- Coverage for family members
- Long-term security
- Access to all Swiss healthcare providers
Coverage Comparison
| Feature | Swisscare | Mandatory Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | CHF 65-95 | CHF 250-400 |
| Coverage Area | Switzerland + Home Country | Switzerland (worldwide for emergencies) |
| Doctor Choice | Limited network | Free choice (standard model) |
| Family Coverage | Not available | Available |
| Maximum Duration | 6 years | Unlimited |
Application Process
Swisscare Application
Check Eligibility
Verify you meet all Swisscare requirements
Deadline: Before arrival
Gather Documents
Prepare student visa, enrollment confirmation, and passport
Deadline: Before application
Apply for Coverage
Submit application through Swisscare website
Deadline: Before arrival ideal
Request Exemption
Submit exemption request to cantonal authorities
Deadline: Within 3 months of arrival
Mandatory Insurance Application
Compare Providers
Research different Swiss insurance companies
Deadline: First month
Choose Model
Select insurance model (standard, GP, or Telmed)
Deadline: During application
Submit Application
Apply with chosen provider
Deadline: Within 3 months
Set Up Payments
Arrange premium payments
Deadline: Upon acceptance
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use my home country insurance in Switzerland?
- If you're from an EU/EFTA country and have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you might be able to use it for basic coverage. However, you'll need to apply for exemption from mandatory Swiss insurance. Non-EU students typically need either Swisscare or Swiss mandatory insurance.
- What happens if I start working during my studies?
- If you start working more than 20 hours per week, you'll need to switch to mandatory Swiss insurance (KVG/LAMal). This applies even if you were previously covered by Swisscare or using your EHIC card.
- Can I switch from Swisscare to mandatory insurance later?
- Yes, you can switch to mandatory insurance at any time if your situation changes (e.g., starting work, turning 35, or bringing family to Switzerland). However, you cannot switch back to Swisscare once you've had mandatory insurance.
- What if I'm doing a PhD in Switzerland?
- PhD students with employment contracts (common in Switzerland) must take out mandatory insurance. This is because they're considered employees rather than students for insurance purposes.
- Is dental care covered by student insurance?
- Basic dental care is not covered by either Swisscare or mandatory insurance. For dental coverage, you'll need supplementary insurance. Swisscare offers optional dental packages, while Swiss insurers provide various dental coverage options.
Need help choosing student insurance?
Get expert guidance to find the right coverage for your studies