Social insurance for foreign nationals: everything you need to know
Foreign nationals working in Switzerland are required to take out social insurance. The social insurance schemes in Switzerland are as follows:
Old-age and survivors’ insurance (“AVS”): guarantees an old-age pension and a survivors’ pension for people who have paid contributions during their working life.
Invalidity insurance (AI): provides protection against the financial consequences of invalidity.
Compulsory health insurance (LAMal): provides basic coverage for medical and dental care.
Accident insurance (LAA): provides coverage for occupational and non-occupational accidents.
Foreign nationals must register for AVS, AI and accident insurance within three months of starting work in Switzerland. Health insurance is compulsory from the first day of work in Switzerland.
Foreign nationals may be exempted from the insurance obligation if they are covered by an equivalent social insurance system in their country of origin, provided that their insurance is recognised by Switzerland. It is therefore important to check with the competent authorities to find out whether the insurance in your country of origin is recognised.
It is also important to note that foreign nationals working in Switzerland must pay contributions to the AHV, IV, health and accident insurance. Contributions are calculated on the basis of salary and are deducted directly from the person’s salary.
If they leave Switzerland, foreign nationals can apply for a refund of their AVS, IV and accident insurance contributions under certain conditions.
In summary, foreign nationals working in Switzerland are required to take out social insurance unless they are covered by an equivalent system recognised by Switzerland. Contributions are deducted directly from the salary and can be reimbursed in case of departure from Switzerland