Hi

The comparis website says that you need to register with the Residents' Registration Office within 8 days of arrival and you must produce the following:

• Valid proof of identity (for yourself and each family member)
• Proof of health insurance (compulsory basic health insurance)
• 1 passport photo (of yourself and each family member)
• Civil status documents (e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificate of children under the age of majority, etc.)
• Contract of employment

I don’t understand how you can have Proof of health insurance (compulsory basic health insurance) after only 8 days in the country. Does anybody have any ideas – do you really have to organise your health insurance before you register.

Thanks alot

Hello Beano,

When I registered with my Gemeinde a day after I first arrived in Switzerland, I only provided them my passport, a passport sized picture, my work contract, and the Ermachtigung provided by the employer. They just reminded me that I need a health insurance within three months of arriving in Switzerland and that they should be furnished with a copy of the receipt/insurance contract.

Same for me. I got a separate letter asking for a proof of insurance within 3-months. I didn't have to provide it at the time of registration. I remember there was a pre-paid envelope enclosed and I just sent them a copy of my policy in the envelope.

For me, they wanted my passport and work contract. I got a letter much later asking for the proof of health insurance, and I didn't have to give them a photo until the day I picked up the permit. I guess it is different office by office, canton by canton.

Only after you register with the Gemeinde will they send you a letter informing you that you have 60 days (i think) to get at least basic health insurance. Payments can be backdated. The gemeinde will also supply you with a list of possible health insurance companies to choose from.

What gooner said - if Comparis are giving that out as advice it makes you wonder how good the offers are .

Can I just ask what this is "Ermachtigung provided by the employer" - from Chipmaker's post - I don't think I have one of these.

Thanks again to all.