LAMal cancellation deadlines & dates
Basic insurance is cancelled effective 31 December, taking effect on 1 January. The letter must reach the insurer no later than 30 November.
Legal timeline
Premium announcement
Insurers communicate the new premiums (usually late October).
Legal basis
LAMal art. 7: the insured may change insurer at the end of a half-year with three months' notice (standard model), and at the end of the calendar year if they have chosen an ordinary deductible and the standard model, the cancellation having to reach the insurer no later than the last working day of November.
Frequently asked questions — LAMal cancellation
What is the deadline to cancel my basic insurance?
For a switch on 1 January, your cancellation letter must reach your insurer no later than 30 November. Send it by registered post to have proof of receipt.
Can my insurer refuse my cancellation?
No, provided you meet the deadline and will be insured elsewhere on 1 January. The insurer cannot refuse a cancellation that complies with the LAMal.
Can I remain without basic insurance after my cancellation?
No. Basic insurance is mandatory in Switzerland. You must affiliate with a new insurer from 1 January.
Can I cancel if I have outstanding premiums?
If you have arrears, the insurer may object to the switch until full payment. Settle your situation before cancelling.
Does changing the deductible follow the same deadlines?
Yes: the deductible-change request must reach the insurer before the end of November, effective 1 January.
Official sources
Information you can verify against official Swiss sources: