Guide to the Swiss health system: LAMal and the choice of the sick fund (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• LAMal is a mandatory health insurance for those residing in Switzerland
• The choice of the sick fund is important to ensure adequate health coverage
• The canton of Basel has specific data on the choice of the health insurance fund and on health coverage

Guide to the Swiss health system: LAMal and the choice of the sick fund

The Swiss healthcare system is known for its excellence and universal coverage, thanks to the Compulsory Health Insurance Act (LAMal). This law requires all residents of Switzerland to have valid health insurance. The choice of the sick fund is an important step in ensuring adequate health coverage.

LAMal: what it is and how it works

LAMal is a mandatory health insurance that covers all residents in Switzerland. The law was introduced in 1996 and requires all Swiss and foreign citizens to have valid health insurance. LAMal covers medical expenses, including doctors, hospitals, medicines and other health services.

The choice of the sick fund

The choice of the sick fund is an important step in ensuring adequate health coverage. There are several sickness funds available in Switzerland, each with its own characteristics and rates. The choice of health insurance depends on several factors, including income, health and individual needs.

Example: If a Swiss national has a low income, they might be eligible

Operational details

Key facts

• What: LAMal is a mandatory health insurance
• When: Within 3 months of arrival in Switzerland
• Where: Switzerland
• Who: Who resides in Switzerland
• Amount: There is no specific cost for choosing the sick fund

Guide to the Swiss health system: LAMal and choosing the sick fund

Switzerland is known for its excellent healthcare network, which offers a wide range of high-quality services to its citizens and residents. One of the main requirements for residents in Switzerland is enrollment in mandatory health insurance, known as LAMal. In this article, we will explore the details of the LAMal and the choice of the sick fund.

When and how to join LAMal

LAMal registration is mandatory for all residents in Switzerland. This means that they must be registered within 3 months of arrival in Switzerland. The registration procedure varies depending on the canton in which you reside. Some cantons, such as the Canton of Ticino, require registration via the sickness fund website, while others, such as the Canton of Zurich, require the presentation of personal documents at a sickness fund office.

Where and how to pay LAMal

LAMal is a mandatory health insurance, so there is no specific cost for choosing the sick fund. However, it is important to note that LAMal rates may vary depending on the canton and the sick fund chosen. For example, the sickness fund

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Key points

Guide to the Swiss health system: LAMal and the choice of the sick fund

On 1 January 2026, the Canton of Ticino announced a 2.3% increase in minimum wages, to ensure adequate health coverage for employees. Choosing the right health insurance fund is essential to ensure adequate health and financial protection. Here's a guide to help you understand the Swiss healthcare system and make the right choice.

The Swiss healthcare system

The Swiss health system is based on a model of compulsory insurance, called LAMal (Federal Health Insurance Act). LAMal requires all Swiss citizens to be insured against healthcare costs. Health coverage is provided by one of the 138 authorized health insurance funds, which offer different services and different rates.

The choice of the sick fund

Choosing the right health insurance fund depends on several factors, such as your age, health status, income level, and health needs. Here are some tips to help you choose the right cashier:

• Calculate your income: To determine your sick pay contribution share, it's important to calculate your annual income.
• Consider your age: If you are elderly, you may be interested in a sickness fund that offers specialized services for the elderly.
• Think about your health needs: if you need specialized care or medical assistance

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