Swiss financial deadlines for expats
Miss a Swiss deadline and it can cost you real money. Here are the dates that matter each year - and the ones tied to your arrival - with what to do and a one-click way to add them to your calendar.
The Swiss financial year
Calendar events repeat every year and come with reminders, so you only have to add them once.
- Late September
New health premiums published
Start comparing insurers as soon as next year's KVG premiums come out.
Premiums move differently by insurer and canton, so an early comparison gives you time to switch by 30 November.
Approximate - the federal announcement usually lands in late September.
- 30 November
Switch or cancel your basic health insurance
Send your written cancellation so it reaches the insurer by 30 November.
It is the only reliable annual window to move basic cover; miss it and you pay the higher premium all year.
- 31 December
Pay into pillar 3a
Transfer your contribution to your bank 3a or 3a life policy before the year ends.
Only money credited by 31 December is deductible for this tax year - there is no catch-up later.
- 31 December
Pension-fund (BVG) buy-in
Transfer early - the buy-in must be received by your pension fund by 31 December.
A buy-in is one of the largest deductions available; mind the three-year lock-up before a lump-sum withdrawal.
- ~31 March
File your tax return
Submit your return or request an extension before the cantonal deadline.
Extensions are usually granted and often free, but only if you ask in time.
Typical date - check your canton.
- ~31 March (following year)
Request ordinary assessment (NOV)
If you are taxed at source, request ordinary assessment or a rate correction.
It is how you claim pillar 3a, buy-ins, childcare and commuting deductions - often producing a refund.
Typical date - check your canton.
- Canton-specific
Premium reduction (Prämienverbilligung) application
Apply through your canton if your income is below the cantonal threshold.
It can cut your premium bill substantially, but each canton runs its own window and forms.
Varies by canton - no single date to add to your calendar.
Tax deadlines - and some others, such as premium reductions - vary by canton and commune. As of 2025, always confirm the exact dates with your canton.
Note: 3b (free) life insurance generally has no separate tax deadline - only the policy's own premium due date.
Deadlines from the day you arrive
These run from your arrival date rather than a calendar date, so they are different for everyone.
Within 14 days
Register at your commune
Book your Anmeldung at the residents' office of the commune you moved into.
First 2 weeks checklist →Within 3 months
Take out health insurance
Basic cover is compulsory and is backdated to your arrival date, so choose well before the deadline.
Compare premiums →Within 12 months
Exchange your foreign driving licence
Swap your licence for a Swiss one within the first year of residence.
First 2 weeks checklist →
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