topics
tools
editor's choice

How to assimilate

Crime and the legal system in Switzerland

Major museums in Switzerland

Culture and social etiquette in Switzerland

How to open a Swiss bank account

Expatica countries
Index Last Var.(%)
BEL 20 2705.29 -1.51
DAX 8351.98 -2.10
IBEX 30 8343.6 -1.40
CAC 40 3967.15 -2.07
FTSE 100 6696.79 -2.10
AEX 365.22 -1.85
DJIA 15313.93 0.04
Nasdaq 3460.2 -0.09
FTSE MIB 17008.42 -3.06
TSX Composite 12670.63 -0.64
ASX 5040.8 -1.97
Hang seng 22669.68 -2.54
Straits Times 3393.17 -1.77
ISEQ 20 656.62 -0.68
You are here: Home Finance & Business Pensions & Insurance Insurance in Switzerland 101
Enlarge font Decrease font Text size


14/09/2012Insurance in Switzerland 101

Insurance in Switzerland 101 An introduction to compulsory and optional forms of insurance in Switzerland, from health insurance to home insurance in Switzerland.

The Swiss are among the world’s highest spenders on insurance: the average Swiss family spends one-fifth of their household budget on insurance.

COMPULSORY INSURANCE

Health insurance:
Health insurance is governed by the Federal Law on Health Insurance. Every Swiss resident is required to have basic health insurance (Soziale Krankenversicherung / Assurance maladie / Assicurazione-Mallatie) within three months of arriving in the country. There are approximately 90 health insurance companies that are authorized to provide compulsory medical insurance. Premiums vary, so it’s worth comparing insurers. Some employers offer discounted premiums through a group policy with a health insurer. Most individuals, however, must seek out their own insurance. Basic insurance provides the essential cover. In addition, each insurer offers supplementary cover that can be taken out on an individual basis and can be private, semi-private, and so on. Again, the benefits and premiums of health insurers can vary. International insurers can be a good option, such as Bupa International or Globality, which is a leading international expatriate health insurer with customers in over 190 countries.

Accident insurance: In Switzerland, accident insurance is included in the services offered by health insurers. Employees are automatically insured by their employer. This enables you to reduce your private premiums accordingly.

Vehicle insurance: The Federal Law on Road Transport requires anyone driving a car or riding a bicycle on the roads to take out third-party liability insurance. Motor vehicle liability insurance covers all damage caused by you, as the driver of a vehicle, to other road traffic users. Personal injury is covered, as is damage to property. You must present an insurance certificate to the road traffic authorities in order to receive Swiss licence plates.

OPTIONAL INSURANCE

Personal liability insurance: This covers any claims against you as a private individual, regardless of whether injury or damage is concerned. It also protects you against unjustified claims.

Household insurance: Household contents are defined as all items in your possession in your house or apartment, on your balcony and in your garden. This form of insurance covers fire and water damage, as well as loss through theft.


Bupa International health insurance: Find out more

Globality Yougenio health insurance: Find out more

 

Expatica





0 reactions to this article

0 reactions to this article

ask your question
find the business you need
Discussion Forums

Living in Switzerland

Free Indian Cooking App for iPhone

Community Noticeboard Switzerland

Trip to Italy for Palio

Finding your way in Switzerland

Where to live around Morges

Living in Switzerland

Cooking Indian Food Made Easy

Community Noticeboard Switzerland

Cooking Indian Food Made Easy

participate in the forums

Inside Expatica
Residence and work permits in Switzerland

Residence and work permits in Switzerland

How to apply for a residency or work permit in Switzerland for you and your family.

How to rent and buy a house in Switzerland

How to rent and buy a house in Switzerland

Information about renting property and obtaining a mortgage in Switzerland.

Switzerland's healthcare system

Switzerland's healthcare system

Information about the Swiss healthcare system, health insurance, pharmacies and emergency numbers.

Banking in Switzerland

Banking in Switzerland

Explaining Swiss currency, banknotes, credit cards and bureaux de change.