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Insurance Guide for Germans Moving to Switzerland
Navigate the transition from the German to Swiss insurance system with confidence. Complete guidance in German for a smooth insurance transition.
Important for German Emigrants
The Swiss insurance system is fundamentally different from Germany. Mandatory coverage is required within 3 months of arrival.
German vs Swiss Insurance System
| Aspect | 🇩🇪 Germany | 🇨🇭 Switzerland | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance Structure | Public (GKV) and private (PKV) system | Mandatory basic + optional supplementary | All residents must have basic coverage regardless of income |
| Premium Calculation | Income-based contributions | Fixed premiums per person | Premiums not tied to salary in Switzerland |
| Employer Contribution | 50% employer contribution | No employer contribution to health insurance | Full premium responsibility lies with individual |
| Deductibles | Low deductibles (€10 per prescription) | Higher deductibles (CHF 300-2,500 annually) | Significant out-of-pocket costs possible |
Insurance Transition Timeline
Preparation in Germany
2-3 months before move
- Notify German health insurer of move abroad
- Obtain European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- Research Swiss insurance system thoroughly
- Prepare required documents and translations
- Consider maintaining German private insurance temporarily
First Month in Switzerland
Days 1-30
- Register with local authorities (Anmeldung)
- Open Swiss bank account
- Begin Swiss health insurance research
- Contact insurance brokers for German speaker support
- Understand premium reduction eligibility
Insurance Transition
Days 30-90
- Apply for Swiss basic health insurance
- Terminate German health insurance properly
- Consider supplementary insurance needs
- Set up automatic premium payments
- Register with Swiss healthcare providers
Complete Integration
Month 3+
- Optimize insurance portfolio for Swiss system
- Understand annual switching opportunities
- Consider life and legal insurance needs
- Plan for potential returns to Germany
- Stay informed about bilateral agreements
Insurance Providers with Strong German Support
CSS
German Support: Excellent
Advantages for Germans:
Helsana
German Support: Very Good
Advantages for Germans:
Swica
German Support: Good
Advantages for Germans:
Common Mistakes Germans Make
❌ Delaying insurance application
Consequence:
Risk of retroactive premium payments
Prevention:
✅ Apply within 3 months of arrival
❌ Choosing cheapest option without research
Consequence:
Inadequate coverage or poor service
Prevention:
✅ Compare benefits, not just premiums
❌ Not understanding deductible system
Consequence:
Unexpected high out-of-pocket costs
Prevention:
✅ Learn about franchise and deductible structure
❌ Ignoring supplementary insurance timing
Consequence:
Health declaration requirements later
Prevention:
✅ Apply for supplementary coverage early
Need German-Speaking Insurance Advice?
Our German-speaking specialists understand both systems and help you navigate the transition smoothly.
FAQ for German Emigrants
Can I keep my German private health insurance (PKV)?
You can temporarily maintain your German PKV for emergency coverage, but you still need Swiss basic insurance as a resident. Some PKV policies offer international coverage that can complement Swiss insurance. Consult both insurers about coordination.
How do I transfer my German medical records to Swiss doctors?
Request copies of your medical records from German doctors before moving. Most Swiss doctors accept German medical records, especially if translated. The EHIC provides temporary coverage during transition, but establish Swiss healthcare relationships quickly.
Are my German insurance years recognized for Swiss benefits?
For social security coordination, yes - German insurance periods count toward Swiss social security benefits under EU agreements. However, this doesn't affect health insurance premiums, which are fixed regardless of previous insurance history.