Do I need travel insurance to go to Switzerland ?

Who needs travel insurance to visit Switzerland?

The first and most obvious question: is travel insurance mandatory to visit Switzerland?

Cautious travellers would answer: everyone! However, when it comes to legal obligations, it is a bit more subtle.

While Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, it is one of the countries in the Schengen Zone. This means that most (but not all) visitors are required to hold a Schengen visa to enter its borders.

To obtain the said visa, travellers need to submit an application file.

This file must enclose several compulsory documents, including a travel insurance certificate.

A what? say you. An official document proving that you are protected by Schengen travel insurance, a mandatory requirement to be granted a Schengen visa.

This travel insurance, in turn, must also meet several criteria but more on that later.

→ Travel insurance is mandatory to visit Switzerland if you need a Schengen visa.

Now, let’s see who doesn’t need a Swiss Schengen visa and who does.

Who doesn’t need a Schengen visa to visit Switzerland (for stays shorter than 90 days)?

You’re good to go to Switzerland visa-free if you are:

• A national of the Schengen area or of a European Union member country.


• A citizen of Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., the U.S., or of one of the roughly 60 non-EU countries and territories that have signed visa exemption agreements with the EU.

Bonus Info:

• Visa-exempt travellers still need to:
• carry valid ID documents
• apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation.
• Comply with the Schengen visa 90/180-day rule

Who needs a Schengen visa for Switzerland?

If your home country has not signed a visa-waiver agreement with the EU — then you will likely need a Swiss Schengen visa indeed. This includes passport holders from China, India, Russia, all of Africa, most of the Middle East, and nearly a hundred other nations.

Thankfully, the European Commission provides a full list of countries whose nationals need a visa to enter the Schengen area (Annex I).

Pro Tip

If you’re interested in a bit more (somewhat complicated) geography, AXA can also tell you more about all the European non-Schengen countries.

How to apply for a Schengen visa for Switzerland?

If you’re still a bit lost — fear not! AXA Schengen can also help you answer the following questions:

• Do you need a Schengen visa or not?
• What type of Schengen visa do you need?
• How to apply for a visa for Switzerland?
• How to apply for a visa for Switzerland from India?
• What are the Schengen visa requirements?

Once you’ve submitted your application file, we will also explain:

• your Schengen visa validity dates,
• what your Schengen visa extension options are,
• how to track your Schengen visa application online.

What are the travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa for Switzerland?

To be considered as valid by Schengen consulates, travel insurance must meet several compulsory requirements established by Article 15 of the European Union Visa Code. Otherwise, your Schengen visa application will be denied.

Your Schengen travel insurance for Switzerland must:

• Guarantee a €30,000 minimum coverage for medical expenses.
• Cover emergency hospitalisation and medical care due to health issues occurring during your stay.
• Bear the costs of repatriation to your home country in case of serious health issues or even death.
• Be certified by all the countries of the Schengen area (not only Switzerland).
• Be valid in all Schengen countries (not only Switzerland).
• Remain valid during the entire duration of your stay.
• Be purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries.

Good news! AXA Schengen travel insurance meets all these criteria and much more!

Is travel insurance mandatory if you don’t need a Schengen visa for Switzerland?

You don’t need a visa for Switzerland? Congratulations! You’re one big step closer to seeing this magical place first-hand. And — legally speaking — no, travel insurance for your trip is not mandatory.

However, take a minute and ponder this:

When travelling abroad — even to a safe and tourist-friendly place like Switzerland — things can go wrong. And when they do, it’s best to be as prepared as possible. How? Do you ask? Well, by being properly insured.

First off, navigating a foreign medical system —even one as good as the Swiss one — can be daunting. Moreover, medical costs abroad can often be surprisingly high (and that’s especially true for things like prescription drugs). And, of course, If you are pregnant and/or have a pre-existing medical condition, your general risk factors are that much higher.

So whether you are hiking or skiing the Alps, dipping in or lounging about on one of Switzerland’s many lakes, experiencing the modern hustle and bustle of Zurich, or anything in between — having the proper travel insurance is the first (and often most crucial step).

Why choose AXA Schengen Travel Insurance for Switzerland?

AXA Schengen travel insurance has been a trusted provider for decades. Here’s why it’s the go-to choice for your trip to Switzerland:

• AXA Schengen visa insurance complies with all E.U. requirements in terms of visa obligations.
• It is certified and accepted by the consulates and embassies of all the countries part of the Schengen area.
• It is thus automatically accepted with Schengen visa applications.
• It guarantees a coverage of minimum €30,000 and up to €2 million depending on the chosen plan.
• It covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, sanitary repatriation including in the event of death.
• It includes both civil liability and personal liability coverage.
• It offers death and disability insurance.
• Its coverage scope includes all the Schengen states, European microstates, other non-Schengen but EU countries as well as the United Kingdom (depending on the chosen option).
• It offers duration flexibility - from just one day, up to six months, or up to a full year.

Other advantages of choosing AXA travel insurance:

• AXA is internationally renowned for its expertise in Schengen travel insurance.
• It offers 24/7 assistance thanks to its devoted teams of experienced professionals.
• Online subscription is quick and easy.
• Your Schengen travel insurance certificate is available instantaneously. You can thus immediately print and enclose the document with your application file, saving you precious time.
• There is no age restriction.
• 0 deductible applies to medical expenses.
• No medical check-up is required.
• It is refundable if your visa application is denied.
• It offers many additional advantages:
• delivery of prescriptions, glasses and prosthesis,
• daily hospitalization allowance,
• search and rescue costs,
• coverage of the early repatriation of the injured’s travel companions and their luggage. This also applies to the policy holder if they must interrupt their stay due to an emergency (such as serious illness in the family, etc.)
• It includes baggage insurance depending on the chosen plan.
• Free remote medical consultations are available with our unique “Doctor, please!” feature in English, French, and several other languages.
• AXA offers tailor-made insurance with multiple upgrade options designed to satisfy all needs and budgets.

Which AXA plan best suits your needs?

Are you travelling to Switzerland for business or pleasure? Are you going solo or with family? Are wild adventures on the agenda or are you planning on taking it easy? Whatever the nature of your trip, AXA has a comprehensive plan for you:

• AXA Schengen Basic offers standard and efficient coverage to obtain your Schengen visa.
  This travel insurance option meets Shields all the mandatory requirements, covers you in all the countries of the Schengen Area as well as in the 4 European microstates (Andorra, Vatican City, Monaco and San Marino).


• AXA Schengen Essential provides complete and reliable coverage at an affordable price. Another perfect choice to obtain your Schengen visa.
  Not only does it meet all visa requirements and is valid in all the Schengen countries + the European microstates, but it also offers coverage in all the EU countries as well as the UK.


• AXA Schengen Premium is THE all-inclusive plan allowing you to obtain your Schengen visa and to travel stress-free all over Europe.
  Its coverage is valid in all Schengen countries + the EU countries + the 4 microstates + the UK.


• AXA Schengen Annual is the ideal yearly travel insurance plan for frequent travellers to Europe as well as multiple-entry Schengen visa holders.
  One contract for a full year of travel coverage across Europe!
  It is valid in all Schengen countries + the EU countries + the 4 microstates + the UK

What should you do in case of injury or illness during your trip to Switzerland?

In case of a medical emergency during your stay in Switzerland, AXA's Schengen insurance provides comprehensive support to ensure your well-being.

• All you need to do is contact your AXA call centre at the number featured on your insurance policy. Our medical professionals are available 24/7 to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you find the nearest medical facility.
• During your first call, you will be given a reference file number. Keep it handy as you will have to provide it each time you are in contact with the assistance team.

Once you reach the AXA Centre, you’ll be asked to provide:

• Your policy number (which begins with "SCH");
• The address and telephone number at which you can be reached (as well as the details of anyone who can be contacted locally);
• Your reference file number (provided during your initial call).

List of Emergency Numbers in Switzerland

Here are the essential emergency numbers to keep on hand when in Switzerland:

• General emergency: 112
• Police emergency: 117
• Ambulance and rescue services: 144
• Fire Department: 118
• Medical advice over the phone: 0900 57 67 47

The official Swiss government website has a few more that you might want to jot down.

PRO TIPS:

• Always keep all invoices related to medical expenses for your records.
• Remember to keep your phone charged.
• Stay calm — AXA is here to support you throughout your journey.

Useful information and safety tips for your trip to Switzerland

And, finally, here are a few more tips to make sure your trip to the Playground of Europe is safe, fun, and informed.

Security

Switzerland boasts a low crime rate overall (in fact, one of the lowest in Europe). Still, it's always advisable to take a few precautions. Petty crimes such as mugging, bag-snatching, and pickpocketing may occur — especially in tourist areas, airports, railway stations, and crowded places. So avoid leaving valuables unattended, keep your phone close, and stay alert.

Opening hours

Shops in Switzerland typically operate from 9 am to 6.30 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, with most establishments closed on Sundays. This includes retail shops, supermarkets, and malls. Some convenience stores at train stations and tourist areas might have extended hours — but it's best to plan your souvenir (and other) shopping accordingly.

Restaurants

Bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, however, are often open on Sundays (especially in tourist spots, resorts, and so on). Lunch in Switzerland is typically served from noon to 2 pm, with some restaurants starting service a bit earlier. And dinner hours are generally from 6 pm to 9.30 pm (although, again, this can vary by region and establishment).

Reservations are advisable — especially at popular spots and/or during peak tourist seasons.

Public transport

Switzerland offers an extensive and efficient public transport network that includes trains, buses, boats, lake steamers, funiculars, cable cars, and more. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates the train network, offering convenient and scenic routes across the country.

Meanwhile, the Swiss Travel System provides comprehensive information on routes, schedules, and ticketing options — including the infamous-among-tourists Swiss Travel Pass (which gives you unlimited travel in Switzerland by train, bus, and/or boat for 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days).

Driving license

Driving through Switzerland’s (mostly) neatly paved streets and/or mountain roads is a fairly common option as well. And if you are a resident of Switzerland, you can use a foreign driving license for the first 12 months. After this period, you are required to obtain a Swiss driving license.

The Swiss Federal Roads Office (ASTRA, or “FEDRO” in English) provides detailed info on driving regulations — as well as on the process to obtain a Swiss license.

PRO TIP: For more information, don’t forget to read our article on which driving licenses are accepted in Europe.

Weather

Despite somewhat popular associations, Switzerland is not always that wintery and actually experiences quite varied weather depending on the region and elevation. Summers (June to August), for example, are generally mild to warm — with temperatures averaging between 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). The winters (December to February), meanwhile, do get chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing — especially in the mountainous regions where snowfall is common.

Currency

And despite another (somewhat) popular belief, the official currency in Switzerland is not the euro but, rather, the Swiss franc (CHF) — as the country is not a member of the EEA (the European Economic Area). However, euros are accepted at the more touristy spots.

Be sure to check the latest rates before your journey — as they obviously fluctuate.

Related Articles

You might find these articles interesting:

• How to choose the best Schengen travel insurance?
• How safe is it to travel to Europe?
• What are the safest European destinations?
• What are the most dangerous European cities?
• What are the most common scams in Europe for tourists?
• Understanding Europe from A to Z
• What are the easiest countries to obtain a Schengen visa from?

FAQ

Is Switzerland in the EU?

No, Switzerland is neither a member of the European Union (EU) nor the EEA (the European Economic Area). It does, however, have a series of Bilateral Agreements with the EU — which allow it to participate in the EU's single market, for example.

Does the European health insurance card cover Switzerland?

Yes. Visitors from EU/EEA countries may still have some form of health coverage in Switzerland with their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) — due to the aforementioned bilateral agreements (but the European Commission can tell you more about that).

But be careful, EHIC coverage is limited. It only covers care received within the public healthcare system, and does not cover private healthcare, repatriation costs, or other problems you may encounter while traveling (such as damage caused to others, issues with baggage, etc.). It does not replace private travel insurance.

How much is health insurance in Switzerland?

Swiss residents are required to have basic health insurance — which can range in cost based on factors like age, health status, and chosen deductible. Monthly premiums typically vary from a few hundred to several hundred Swiss francs.