Private Health Insurance in Switzerland (2026 Guide for Expats)

Private health insurance in Switzerland means semi-private or private hospital coverage (supplementary). Get comfort, free doctor choice, and optional global cover — subject to medical acceptance.

Independent, in English. Typical reply within 24h.

Change Season 2025/2026

Supplementary (private/semi-private) applications are best submitted by 30 September. Basic insurance changes until 30 November.

What "Private Health Insurance" Means Here

  • In Switzerland, "private health insurance" usually refers to supplementary hospital insurance under VVG/LCA (not a replacement for basic KVG/LAMal).
  • Levels:
    • General (basic): covered by KVG/LAMal (shared ward).
    • Semi-private (supplementary): 2-bed room, wider doctor choice.
    • Private (supplementary): 1-bed room, free doctor choice nationwide, often faster access.
  • Private/supplementary plans require medical acceptance (health questionnaire). Acceptance is not guaranteed.

Learn basics of Swiss health insurance →

Typical Costs (Indicative)

Premiums vary by age, canton, provider, and options. Ballpark monthly add-on prices (on top of basic insurance):

Age Semi-Private Private
25–35 CHF 200–350 CHF 400–650
36–45 CHF 230–380 CHF 450–700
46–55 CHF 280–450 CHF 550–850

We'll send 3 tailored private/semi-private offers for your postcode within 24h.

Why People Choose Semi-Private / Private

Comfort & Access

  • 1-bed or 2-bed room comfort
  • **Free doctor/surgeon choice** (private)
  • Shorter waiting times for planned procedures

For Expats & Frequent Travellers

  • Options for **global hospital coverage**
  • Better continuity of care across regions/countries
  • English-friendly insurers and clinics

Acceptance Rules (Important)

  • Basic (KVG/LAMal) must accept everyone.
  • Private & Semi-Private are supplementary: insurers can request a health questionnaire, impose exclusions/waiting periods, or decline.
  • Tip: Apply earlier (younger/healthier = higher acceptance odds). We'll advise on insurer fit per profile.

Looking for Global Coverage?

  • Some private hospital policies offer worldwide hospital cover beyond emergency-only basics.
  • Good for frequent travel, cross-border lifestyles, international careers.
  • We compare options and clarify gaps (e.g., USA high-cost areas).

Compare providers:

SWICA Helsana Sanitas Groupe Mutuel

How to Apply (3 Steps)

1

Check fit & pricing

We gather your age, postcode, and preferences.

2

Medical acceptance

Complete health questionnaire; we advise per insurer.

3

Start coverage

Pick start date; align with basic insurance and any change season deadlines.

FAQs — Private Health Insurance in Switzerland

No. Private/semi-private are **supplementary** hospital plans (VVG/LCA) on top of the mandatory basic (KVG/LAMal).

Indicatively **CHF 400–700+** for private and **CHF 200–400** for semi-private, varying by age, canton, and insurer.

It depends on the insurer's medical underwriting. You may face exclusions or rejection. We'll help you position your application.

Some do (global options). We'll clarify coverage scope per plan and destination.

If you value single room, free doctor choice, and quicker access (especially for planned procedures), many expats find it worthwhile.

Ready to compare semi-private vs private options?

Independent & in English
3 tailored offers within 24h
Advice on acceptance odds