LAMal 2026: how to choose in Switzerland (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• LAMal health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Switzerland
• Deductibles available from CHF 300 to CHF 2500 per year
• Premiums vary by canton; cantonal low income subsidies
• Registration must take place within 3 months of arrival

Key facts

• What: Compulsory health insurance for residents
• When: Subscription within 3 months of arrival; annual renewal
• Where: Each Swiss canton; changes in premiums, deductibles and subsidies
• Who: Private health insurance funds (regulated entities), cantonal administrations
• Excess amount: CHF 300, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500 per year
• Subsidies: Amount dependent on income and cantonal law
• Penalty: Those who do not register within 3 months receive more expensive mandatory coverage

Health insurance is one of the essential pillars of the Swiss health system. Anyone residing in Switzerland for more than three months is obliged to take out health insurance at a private fund recognised by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH/BAG). The obligation is non-negotiable: contravention entails administrative sanctions and consequences on the retrospective coverage of costs incurred.

In 2026, the health insurance funds propose diversified plans with variable deductibles and different coverage models, allowing each person to choose the solution that best suits their needs and budget. The system is decentralised by canton, which means that the

Operational details

Deductibles: which one to choose according to your needs

The deductible is the amount that the insured pays directly to the health care provider (doctor, hospital, pharmacy) before the sick fund begins to reimburse the expenses. Six standard adult allowance levels remain available in 2026: CHF 300, CHF 500, CHF 1000, CHF 1500, CHF 2000 and CHF 2500 per year. A higher deductible reduces the monthly premium as the cashier bears less risk, but increases the initial and maximum cost to the patient. Those who have frequent medical examinations, planned hospitalizations or regular diagnostic tests should choose a low deductible (CHF 300 or 500); those who have little access to health services can save significantly on annual premiums by choosing a high deductible (CHF 2000 or 2500). The choice reflects the personal risk-benefit calculation.

How cantonal subsidies and premium reductions work

Each Swiss canton, including Zurich, independently manages a system of subsidies for low-income citizens and residents. The subsidy is not a centralized salary contribution taken from the paycheck, but a direct and periodic reduction of the sick pay premium. The amount depends on the annual household income, the composition of the household (number of dependants), the age and the specific cantonal laws. To access the subsidy, you must submit a written application to the cantonal administration with documentation

Useful planning tools

To estimate your pension strategy, use the pension planner and the pillar 3 simulator.

Key points

Step-by-step procedure to register with a sick fund

Registering with a health insurance fund in Switzerland follows a standardized and relatively simple process, but with limited times that do not tolerate delays.

Step 1: Collect the necessary documents. Before contacting a cashier, prepare a copy of your passport or identity card, residence permit (SEM for foreigners), AVS number (if you do not have it, the cashier helps you to request it), proof of residence in Switzerland (official welcome letter from the municipality, rental contract, postal bill with address). If you apply for the subsidy, also prepare a copy of your last tax return or income certificate from your employer.

Step 2: Choose the sick fund. Check the website of your canton (for Zurich: cantonal health administration) or the federal portal UFSP/BAG which lists all authorized coffers. Compare gross and net premiums (post-subsidy if eligible), available deductibles, and additional services offered. You can ask for a personal offer directly at checkout by filling out an online form.

Step 3: Fill out the subscription application. The cashier sends or puts online an enrollment form. Fill in complete personal data, desired start date of coverage (not before the date of arrival in Switzerland), chosen deductible, contact information and bank details. Sign the form and scan the required documents.

Step 4: Email your documents,

First day as a cross-border worker? Our practical guide walks you from cantonal registration to your first paycheck.