Arriving in Switzerland for your studies is exciting, but the first few weeks involve a significant amount of administrative work. Miss a deadline, and you could face fines, delays, or unexpected costs. This checklist covers the key tasks in the order you should tackle them.
3 to 6 Months Before Arrival
Confirm Your Visa Requirements
If you are from a non-EU/EFTA country, you will need a student visa (Type D national visa) to study in Switzerland. Apply well in advance, as processing times vary by country and embassy. Your university will typically provide an enrollment confirmation letter that you need as part of the application.
EU and EFTA nationals do not require a visa but will need to register as residents after arrival.
Arrange Accommodation
Student housing in Swiss cities fills quickly. Apply to university student housing as early as possible. Private rental market options are available but competitive, particularly in Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne. Budget for higher costs in these cities.
Sort Your Health Insurance
This is the task most students leave too late. Swiss law requires you to have recognized health insurance within three months of arrival, and there are real financial penalties for missing this deadline.
Purchasing your health insurance before arrival means you arrive prepared, with your policy documentation ready for the cantonal registration process.
Evasan Swiss Studies can be purchased online and activated from any date, including your planned arrival date. Plans start at CHF 66 per month and provide full KVG-equivalent coverage accepted by all Swiss cantons.
First 2 Weeks After Arrival
Register Your Residence
Within 14 days of arriving in Switzerland, you are legally required to register at the local residents' registration office (Einwohnerkontrolle). Bring your passport, rental contract or proof of address, enrollment confirmation, and visa (if applicable). You will receive a residence permit (typically a B or L permit for students).
This registration triggers the start of your three-month health insurance deadline, so it is important not to delay it.
Apply for Your Health Insurance Exemption
Once you have your residence permit and your Evasan policy confirmation, you can apply for the KVG exemption with your cantonal social insurance office. The process and timeline vary by canton. Submit your application as soon as possible after registration.
The documents you typically need:
- Residence permit
- Evasan insurance policy confirmation
- University enrollment certificate
- Passport copy
Open a Swiss Bank Account
A local bank account is necessary for paying rent, receiving transfers, and everyday expenses. Most Swiss universities have partnerships with banks that offer student accounts with low or no fees. Bring your residence permit and enrollment confirmation to the branch.
First Month
Get a Local SIM Card
Mobile contracts in Switzerland can be expensive. Consider a prepaid SIM for your first weeks while you compare options. Major providers include Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt, with various student-friendly prepaid plans available.
Familiarise Yourself with the Healthcare System
Switzerland's healthcare system works differently from most countries. Key points:
- For non-emergency care, you typically see a general practitioner first, who then refers you to a specialist if needed.
- For emergencies, call 144 (ambulance) or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
- Many pharmacists can advise on and treat minor conditions directly, which can save you a doctor visit for straightforward issues.
- Bills are typically sent to you after treatment. You pay and then submit the bill to Evasan for reimbursement, or Evasan handles direct billing depending on the provider.
Explore Your University's Student Services
Most Swiss universities offer extensive support for international students, including language courses, counselling services, sports facilities, and social events. Make use of these from the start. The first semester is the most important time to build your network.
Ongoing: Things to Remember
- If your contact address or residence changes, update it with your insurer and cantonal authorities promptly.
- When your studies end and you leave Switzerland, cancel your health insurance with three months notice.
- If you start working in Switzerland during your studies, inform Evasan, as this may affect your insurance status.
Quick Reference: Key Contacts
- Health insurance: Evasan, info@evasan.com, +41 22 929 52 51
- Emergency medical: 144
- Police: 117
- General emergencies: 112
- Health insurance exemption: Social insurance office of your canton (SVA)
Starting your studies in Switzerland on the right administrative footing means less stress throughout the year. If you have questions about health insurance before or after your arrival, the Evasan team is available to help.