Mandatory Insurance
In Switzerland several types of insurance are mandatory for residents. These mandatory insurances are designed to ensure a basic level of coverage for various risks. Here are the main mandatory insurances in Switzerland.
Health Insurance
Krankenkasse/Assurance maladie - Every resident in Switzerland must have a basic health insurance, which covers a wide range of medical treatments. This coverage is provided by private health insurance companies, but the terms are regulated by the Swiss Government to ensure standardised benefits.
Accident Insurance
Unfallversicherung - Accident insurance is mandatory for employees, and employers are required to provide coverage for work related and non-work-related accidents. Unemployed individuals or those not covered by an employer must obtain accident insurance through their health insurance provider.
Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance
If you own and operate a vehicle in Switzerland, you must have motor vehicle liability insurance. This insurance covers damage that your vehicle might cause to other people or their property.
Social Security Contributions
While not typically catagorised as insurance in the traditional sense, contributions to the Old Age and Survivors Insurance (AHV/AVS), Disability Insurance (IV/AI), and Unemployment Insurance (ALV/AC) are mandatory for workers. These contribute to the Swiss Social Security System.
Other insurances, such as houshold insurance (Hausratverscherung), legal protection insurance, key insurance, or life insurance are not mandatory but may be advisable depending on individual circumstances. It's important for residents in Switzerland to ensure they have the required coverage and to consider additional plans according to their personal and professional situations.