The same law, four times cheaper

Why the gap is so wide

The premium must cover the health costs of the country where the insured person is treated. A treatment costs several times less in Poland than in Switzerland, and the premium follows — without the cover changing at all.

These rates apply to Swiss pensioners living abroad and certain posted workers. They are not available to a Swiss resident: residence determines the scale, not choice.

The cross-border workers’ right of option

Someone who works in Switzerland and lives in a neighbouring country may, once only, choose between their country of residence’s insurance and Swiss basic cover. The choice is final while the situation lasts, and the deadline is three months from starting work.

The premium gap is not the only criterion: the care network, family coverage and reimbursement of treatment in Switzerland differ between systems. The figure above says what Swiss cover costs elsewhere, not what to choose.

The figures

The other studies

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• Where premiums have risen most since 2015
• What not comparing costs
• When the 2 500-franc deductible starts costing more
• The 270 postcodes where your postcode is not enough