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United Kingdom We take the hassle out of health insurance: these two health insurance companies provide international medical and dental insurance for expats in Switzerland. Get quick sample quotes and check out our list of FAQs to select the best health coverage plan for you.
Health insurance quotes for expats in Switzerland
The Munich-headquartered financial services company offers international health insurance plans for expatriate students, professionals, couples and families. Depending on the policy, Allianz Care covers everyday medical expenses, emergency treatment, dental consultations, maternity, surgery, and outpatient fees.
The American health services company serves expats and globally mobile individuals in more than 200 international jurisdictions. Cigna Global’s policies are easily customized to coverage and cost requirements and customers can pick from three coverage levels, modular plans, and several cost-share options.
Healthcare in Switzerland
What do I need to receive healthcare in Switzerland?
Switzerland has a first-class healthcare system, considered among the best in the world. However, it is also quite costly. It is an insurance-based system, but, unlike many other European countries, it’s not funded through tax or social security contributions but by individual health insurance premiums. Everyone living in Switzerland, including expats, needs to have at least basic health insurance that covers most general medical treatment costs. Residents can choose to supplement this with extra private coverage to give them access to a wider range of treatments.
Do I need private health insurance in Switzerland?
Although standard Swiss health insurance is good, it doesn’t cover all treatment and can only be used for state healthcare services. Basic insurance covers between 80–90% of medical costs (excluding the first CHF 300 of treatment costs each year and a daily fee for hospital stays), but doesn’t include dental care, private healthcare provision, or some out-patient medical services. Private coverage entitles you to a wider range of benefits that include a free choice of doctor and extra comforts (e.g., private room) during hospital stays.
FAQ: Health insurance in Switzerland
When choosing your health insurance package in Switzerland, be sure to shop around and look for the best deal that is suited to your particular needs. Costs vary between different company packages and premiums vary between the cantons, with the most expensive more than 60% higher than the lowest.
Besides comparing prices, questions you might want to ask include:
1. Does the package cover family members?
Swiss insurance schemes cover individuals rather than families, so you will need to purchase insurance for each family member. Children do not need to be with the same company as their parents, so you’ll need to shop around for additional policies if you have kids.
2. Are there any restrictions, limitations, or exclusions on the policy, e.g. relating to age or pre-existing conditions?
Some insurers may increase premiums for what they perceive to be high-risk cases (e.g., sufferers of chronic or life-limiting conditions). Make sure you check about these before signing up.
3. What’s a coverage gap and could I be affected?
A coverage gap occurs between the end of of your health insurance coverage in the country you are moving from and the start of your health insurance coverage in the country you are moving to. In Switzerland, it is not possible for non-Swiss citizens to register for Swiss health insurance before registering their residence at their municipality in Switzerland. After arriving in Switzerland, you must sign up for health insurance within 90 days of arrival. Expats moving to Switzerland should consider extending their existing health insurance to cover this gap or sign up for private health insurance to cover the gap.
4. Am I covered while I travel?
Basic Swiss health insurance only covers medical treatment on short trips abroad, so you will need to purchase additional coverage if you travel outside of Switzerland regularly.
5. What treatment costs are covered?
Basic health insurance doesn’t include coverage for dental treatment, some eye care or complementary medical treatment such as osteopathy, so you’ll need to look at private coverage if you need these.
6. What’s the process for making a claim?
Most companies require you to pay medical fees upfront and then claim reimbursements from them, although some may have arrangements with healthcare providers to pay fees directly. Most Swiss insurers offer deals to reduce monthly payments. These can include discounts for paying in advance or lower premiums if you increase your excess.
