Swiss Social System

Swiss social security is divided into five areas:

• old-age, survivors' and invalidity insurance (three-pillar system)
• protection against the consequences of illness and accidents
• income compensation allowances in case of service and in case of maternity
• unemployment insurance
• family allowances

The benefits paid out by the different types of social security are in principle financed by contributions levied on income. For the health insurance, each person insured pays a premium. A minimum converage is required, but further protection can be purchased as well. Health insurance is paid for by the individual alone.