Switching Health Insurance in Switzerland
Every year, approximately 600,000 Swiss residents switch their health insurance provider. Find out how you could save on premiums while maintaining quality coverage.
Why Switch Your Health Insurance?
Premium Reduction
Every fall, Switzerland assesses health insurance state. Premiums can increase by several percentage points, but savings can be secured by switching providers.
New Insurance Needs
As time passes, interests and requirements change. You may want alternative medicine or dental treatments. Supplementary policies can efficiently cover these needs.
Life Changes
Family structure changes like teenagers turning 18 or moving to a different canton can significantly impact premiums. Some cantons have lower premiums than others.
Key Deadlines
Basic Insurance
Deadline for switching basic insurance provider
Premium Increase
Special termination right when premiums increase
Supplementary Insurance
Check your policy for specific termination dates
Ways to Reduce Your Premium
Insurance Model
Choose alternative models like family doctor or hotline triage for lower premiums
Franchise
Increase your deductible from 300 to up to 2500 francs for significant premium reduction
Annual Payment
Pay your annual premiums as a lump-sum at the beginning of the year for a discount
How to Switch Your Insurance
Compare Providers
Review different insurance companies and their offerings
Submit Cancellation
Send termination letter by registered mail before deadline
Apply New Insurance
Complete application with chosen provider
Confirm Coverage
Receive and verify new insurance policy
Frequently Asked Questions
- When can I switch my basic health insurance in Switzerland?
- You can switch your basic health insurance provider by November 30th for coverage starting January 1st of the following year. If your insurer announces premium increases, you may have a special termination right within 30 days of notification.
- How much can I save by switching health insurance?
- Savings can range from several hundred to over a thousand francs annually, depending on your current premium, chosen model, and deductible. Alternative models like family doctor or telemedicine can save up to 20% on premiums.
- What happens to my supplementary insurance when I switch basic insurance?
- Supplementary insurance is independent of basic insurance and has different termination rules. You can keep your supplementary insurance with your current provider while switching basic insurance to another company.
- Can insurers reject my application for basic insurance?
- No, insurers must accept all applicants for basic insurance regardless of age, health status, or pre-existing conditions. This is mandated by Swiss law.
- What documents do I need to switch insurance?
- You'll need your current insurance policy details, personal identification, and a written cancellation letter to your current insurer. Your new insurer will often help with the switching process.
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