3 affordable student insurance options in Switzerland
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Everything to Know About Student Health Insurance in Switzerland
Mandatory Swiss student health insurance (LAMal) explained. Compare costs, coverage, and the exemption process for international students.
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Introduction
Packing your bags for a study program in Switzerland is exciting—you're preparing for world-class education, breathtaking scenery, and rich culture. However, just as mandatory as your visa and enrollment is health insurance. Switzerland’s legal requirements are strict, and figuring out whether to opt for the local mandatory plan (LAMal) or seek an exemption with a private international policy is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll face.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from legal obligations and costs to the essential steps for registration, ensuring you meet the critical deadlines and can focus on your studies, worry-free.
What Is Student Health Insurance in Switzerland?
Student health insurance in Switzerland refers to the mandatory medical coverage required for anyone studying and living in the country for more than three months. Under the Federal Health Insurance Act, known as LAMal in French-speaking regions and KVG in German-speaking regions, every resident must be covered by a recognized Swiss health insurer or an approved equivalent plan.
For students, this requirement works in two ways:
- Enroll in a Swiss mandatory basic health insurance plan (LAMal).
- Or, apply for an exemption from the LAMal obligation by proving you have foreign or private insurance that meets the minimum required coverage standards.
Why does Switzerland require mandatory coverage? LAMal guarantees that everyone can receive medically necessary treatment, regardless of age, income, or existing health conditions. One important feature is that the basic benefits are identical across all Swiss insurers, and companies are not allowed to refuse you or increase your premium based on your medical history.
The Difference Between Swiss Students and International Students
Swiss Students and Long-Term Residents
Swiss nationals and long-term residents fall directly under LAMal’s compulsory system. They must enroll with a Swiss basic health insurance provider, and exemptions are not available for this group.
International Students (Non-EU/EFTA)
Non-EU/EFTA students are also required to have valid health insurance, but they often have more flexibility. They can choose between:
- A Swiss basic LAMal plan
- A recognized private international student plan (such as Swisscare, ScoreStudies, or SWICA StudentCare)
If they choose a compliant private plan, they can apply for a LAMal exemption, which is usually more affordable and easier to set up.
International Students (EU/EFTA)
Students with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can generally receive a LAMal exemption because the EHIC provides reciprocal coverage in Switzerland. However, they must still submit a formal exemption request after arriving in the country.
How LAMal Works for Students
LAMal is the national standard for basic health coverage. Here’s how it affects students:
What LAMal covers
LAMal basic insurance provides comprehensive coverage for illness, accidents (if not covered by an employer), and maternity. Key covered services include:
- Treatments by doctors, specialists, and chiropractors.
- Hospital stays in the general ward of your canton of residence.
- Prescribed medication and lab tests.
- A contribution to rescue costs (limited).
Pros and cons for students
Feature
Pros of LAMalComprehensive, guaranteed coverage with unlimited sums insured.
Cons of LAMalPremiums are often significantly higher than specialized student plans (CHF 250–400+ per month).
Access
Pros of LAMalYou have the free choice of any recognized doctor or hospital in Switzerland.
Cons of LAMalHigh administrative burden for students, including managing deductibles and co-payments.
Simplicity
Pros of LAMalMeets the legal mandate without needing to apply for an exemption.
Cons of LAMalRequires paying the high monthly premium regardless of your chosen deductible (franchise).
When choosing LAMal is a good option
As of 2025, LAMal makes the most sense for students who:
- Are staying in Switzerland long-term (over 6 years).
- Are over the age of 35 (many student plans have an age limit).
- Are working more than 20 hours per week (as they are legally considered employees).
- Have family living with them in Switzerland (LAMal can cover family members).
- Cannot secure an exemption (e.g., if their private foreign plan is rejected).
Pro Tip: Can students get a LAMal exemption? Yes, this is the most common path for non-EU/EFTA international students under 35. You must purchase a recognized private plan (like Swisscare or ScoreStudies) and submit a detailed application, including a confirmation form (often called "Form A") signed by the cantonal authorities. The deadline for this is three months after arrival.
How Much Does Student Health Insurance Cost per Month?
The cost of your health insurance is based on several factors: your age, the canton you live in, the deductible (franchise) you choose, and whether you are enrolled in LAMal or a recognized private plan.
Average price ranges (LAMal vs. Private)
LAMal basic insurance
Typical monthly premium rangeCHF 250 – CHF 450
Key featureMandatory, guaranteed benefits.
Private student plan (Exemption)
Typical monthly premium rangeCHF 60 – CHF 160
Key featureOften 50–70% cheaper, but requires exemption approval.
Canton-based price variations (Geneva, Vaud, Zurich)
LAMal basic insurance premiums vary dramatically by canton, with major cities generally being the most expensive.
Geneva
Average LAMal premium Highest in Switzerland (often CHF 500+)
NoteVery high healthcare costs contribute to high premiums.
Vaud
Average LAMal premium High (often CHF 400+)
NoteIncludes Lausanne, a major university hub.
Zurich
Average LAMal premium Above Average (often CHF 350+)
NoteA major hub, but slightly less expensive than Geneva.
Why do costs differ for international students?
Costs differ for international students because their primary option (the recognized private student plans) is based on a different model. These plans are cheaper because:
- They are generally limited to students under a certain age (e.g., 35).
- They usually limit the total duration of coverage (e.g., up to 6 years).
- They limit benefits in specific ways that still meet the legal minimum but keep costs down.
3 Affordable Student Insurance Options in Switzerland
You have three main paths to fulfill the mandatory insurance requirement.
1. LAMal student policy options
LAMal benefits are identical across all insurers, but prices and administration differ. Every student policy includes the mandatory basic coverage, with optional supplementary add-ons for services like dental care, private hospital wards, or alternative medicine.
Costs follow a simple structure:
- Premium: Your fixed monthly fee
- Deductible (Franchise): CHF 300–2,500 per year, with higher deductibles lowering your premium
- Co-payment: After the deductible, you pay 10% of costs, capped at CHF 700 annually
Most students who use LAMal do so because they aren’t eligible for a private plan exemption—typically students over 35, employed PhD candidates, or those whose foreign insurance doesn’t meet Swiss requirements.
2. Private international health insurance plans
Private international health insurance is the most common pick for eligible non-EU/EFTA students because it’s far cheaper than LAMal. Providers usually offer annual, renewable study-duration plans with tiered coverage (Basic/Essential/Premium). Well-known student-friendly insurers include Swisscare, ScoreStudies, SWICA StudentCare, and Evasan.
These plans offer lower premiums, flexible deductibles, multilingual support, and helpful extras like limited worldwide coverage or small dental/optical benefits. This option is ideal if you’re under 35, staying in Switzerland for under six years, and not employed.
3. Temporary / travel-style student insurance
Temporary or travel-style student insurance is meant for short stays, typically 3–12 months, such as exchange semesters, study abroad, or internships. These plans can be useful if your home country insurance already provides coverage, but you need an official document for a visa.
However, many travel-style plans aren’t accepted as LAMal-equivalent. If you plan to stay longer than a year, you’ll need a recognized plan eligible for the official exemption process, like those from Swisscare, ScoreStudies, or SWICA StudentCare.
How to Register for Student Health Insurance in Switzerland
How to register for student health insurance
Follow these five steps immediately upon arrival to avoid being automatically assigned to an expensive LAMal insurer by the authorities.
Step 1 — Gather your documents
Collect digital copies of:
- Passport/ID
- Confirmation of enrollment from your university (matriculation letter)
- Residence Permit (if available) or confirmation of registration (Meldebestätigung)
- Proof of Address in Switzerland
- The insurance application forms (if applying for a private plan/exemption)
Step 2 — Compare student plans
Next, compare your options. If you choose LAMal, you can check premiums across different insurers using platforms like Comparis, since benefits are identical. If you are eligible for a private international plan, select a recognized provider such as Swisscare, ScoreStudies, or SWICA StudentCare.
Step 3 — Apply to your chosen insurer
Once you have decided, submit your application online or in person. Private plans often issue the insurance policy immediately if you pay by credit card, which is important for the next step. You will receive an insurance certificate and, if applicable, the official exemption form (Form A).
Step 4 — Get your insurance certificate
This is the document that proves you have coverage. It must show:
- Your name and date of birth
- Policy number and effective dates
- Confirmation of LAMal-equivalent coverage (for private plans)
Step 5 — Submit proof to Swiss authorities
You must submit proof of insurance or your exemption request to the relevant cantonal authority (Gemeinde/Commune or cantonal health office, often SVA in Zurich).
If you choose a private plan, you will apply for an exemption and the insurer's certificate. The authorities will review this and grant or deny the exemption. This process can take several weeks or months.
How Does Health Insurance Work for Students in Geneva?
Geneva (and the surrounding Vaud canton) is notoriously one of the most expensive places in Switzerland for health insurance.
- Cantonal specifics: Geneva is unique because of its high population of international residents and expensive medical infrastructure, which drives up average premiums significantly. The high costs make the exemption process with a recognized student plan even more vital for budget-conscious students. For this reason, students should actively investigate specific options for private individual health insurance plans that cater to their needs.
- Cost ranges for Geneva students: Expect Geneva's LAMal premiums to be at the highest end of the national spectrum (often CHF 450–600+ per month for the basic plan).
- Language, admin, and service expectations: Since Geneva is in French-speaking Switzerland (Suisse Romande), all administrative correspondence will be in French. Choosing an insurer that offers French, English, and German administrative support is highly recommended for smooth claims processing. For general administrative guidance and local resources regarding assurance in Geneva, students can find specialized assistance.
- Local recommendations for newcomers: Newcomers should prioritize plans that are known to be easily accepted by the Service de l'assurance maladie (Health Insurance Service) in Geneva for the exemption process. For deeper insights and up-to-date information on regulatory changes, check out recent articles and blog posts on Swiss insurance.
FAQ
No. Health insurance is legally mandatory for anyone staying in Switzerland longer than 90 days. If you fail to obtain coverage, the authorities can automatically enroll you in a standard LAMal plan, which is often significantly more expensive.
Conclusion
Choosing the right health insurance plan is more than just a box to check on a visa application—it's a critical safety net that protects your studies and finances. If you’re an international student, leveraging the LAMal exemption with a recognized private student plan is usually the smartest move, offering significant savings and dedicated support.
Remember to prioritize registration and paperwork immediately upon arrival to meet the three-month deadline and avoid costly, mandatory enrollment. We’re here to help you navigate cost transparency and secure the expert guidance you need to make the right choice early on.
Julie Favre
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