Moving to Switzerland to live and work? Most of the insurances you have at home do not come with you. That is true for your basic health insurance and supplementary health cover, but also for your travel and liability policies. So which extra insurances do you actually need before starting your Swiss adventure? Here are the four we think are essential.
Want everything sorted quickly? Fill in our contact form and Joel from insurer CSS (where almost all of our physiotherapists are insured) will reach out to arrange it with you.
Haftpflichtversicherung (liability insurance)
Most Swiss landlords require a Haftpflichtversicherung before you sign a lease. It covers damage you might cause to the apartment as well as personal injury claims and damage to other people's property.
Good to know: many insurers also cover damage caused while doing sports or by pets, and some even include lost keys. Always keep a copy of your policy for your landlord, because they typically want proof that you are properly covered.
Hausratversicherung (home contents insurance)
A Hausratversicherung protects your personal belongings against fire, theft, accidents (think coffee on your laptop), water damage and natural disasters, both at home and on the go. Take photos of your valuable items and keep purchase receipts as evidence.
Many insurers also cover bikes and items you use outside the home. Renting a furnished apartment? Then your landlord will usually require this insurance as well.
Rechtsschutz-Versicherung (legal expenses insurance)
In Switzerland, legal procedures can get expensive fast. Legal expenses insurance covers disputes in your private life, in traffic, in employment conflicts and in rental matters. Pay attention to the waiting period before coverage kicks in and check that employment law is included, which is especially important when you are just starting your Swiss job.
Reiseversicherung (travel insurance)
The travel insurance from your home country no longer counts once you move to Switzerland, so you will want a Swiss one. It provides worldwide coverage for medical expenses, accidents, emergency transport and repatriation. Most policies also cover trip cancellation, lost luggage and legal assistance abroad.
When choosing a policy, look at the maximum trip duration and whether winter sports are included — highly recommended if you live in Switzerland. Also check that your electronics and sports gear have enough coverage.
Getting your insurances sorted
At takeoff we know that arranging insurances in a new country can feel overwhelming. That is why we are happy to help you pick the right policies in Switzerland and connect you with reliable insurers.
We are personally insured with CSS and we are very happy with them. CSS also offers health insurance and provides attractive discounts when you bundle multiple policies. A nice bonus: you can fully tailor your cover so you never pay more than necessary. Interested? Fill in the contact form and our contact Joel at CSS will reach out with no obligation to set up the insurances you need.
