Accident Insurance UVG — what employees should know

What is accident insurance UVG?

Accident insurance UVG (Unfallversicherungsgesetz) is compulsory social insurance in Switzerland that protects employees against accidents at the workplace or on the way to work. As a newcomer or foreigner in Switzerland, you should understand that this insurance is automatically concluded by your employer — you typically do not need to arrange it yourself. Accident insurance UVG covers treatment costs, loss of earnings compensation, and in the worst case also pensions.

Unlike your health insurance, which you arrange yourself, accident insurance is registered by your employer with SUVA or a private insurance company. The contribution is usually deducted directly from your salary, with your employer bearing part of the cost. This is important protection that is legally provided for all employees in Switzerland.

Who is covered by accident insurance UVG?

Accident insurance UVG is compulsory for all employees employed in Switzerland — regardless of whether you are Swiss, an EU citizen, or from another country. Once you sign an employment contract, you must be protected by accident insurance UVG. This also applies to interns, apprentices, and seasonal workers.

Important to know: the insurance also covers accidents on the way to work, that is, accidents that occur on the direct route between your place of residence and your place of work. For example, if you have an accident on the way to the bus stop or railway station, this is also covered. Self-employed persons and business directors, on the other hand, must register themselves — your adviser can guide you on this.

What benefits does accident insurance UVG offer?

Accident insurance UVG offers comprehensive benefits if you have an accident. These include the coverage of medical treatment costs, hospital costs, and rehabilitation measures. You do not have to pay a deductible as you do with health insurance — accident insurance covers these costs in full.

If you are unable to work for a longer period, you receive loss of earnings compensation, which typically covers 80 per cent of your insured salary. In the event of disability, accident insurance also pays a pension — both for you as the victim and for any dependants in the event of death. These benefits are laid down by law and apply throughout Switzerland. Consult your adviser about the scope of benefits to ensure you are fully covered.

Difference between occupational and non-occupational accidents

Accident insurance UVG distinguishes between occupational accidents and non-occupational accidents. Occupational accidents are accidents that occur while performing your work or on the direct route to work. These are always covered by compulsory accident insurance UVG. Insurance cover is effective immediately without you having to pay a deductible.

Non-occupational accidents (i.e. private accidents in your leisure or private life) can also be covered by accident insurance UVG, but only if your employer has included this in the insurance contract. Many employers in Switzerland also provide their employees with protection against non-occupational accidents — this is an additional benefit that goes beyond the statutory minimum.

Notification requirement and first steps after an accident

If you have an accident, you must notify it to your employer or supervisor immediately. Your employer is then obliged to notify the insurance of the accident — this is usually done within 3 days. You should document the accident in writing and, if possible, name any witnesses.

Seek medical attention or go to hospital immediately if necessary. Costs will be covered directly by accident insurance UVG — you do not need to worry about bills. Keep all medical records and reports as the insurance will need these to process your claims. Our adviser can also support you with questions about the claims process.

Accident insurance UVG and your rights as a newcomer

Many foreign employees are uncertain whether accident insurance UVG applies to them. The good news: you have the same rights as Swiss employees. Regardless of your country of origin, residential status, or nationality, you are insured as soon as you sign a regular employment contract. This is part of the social security system in Switzerland and applies to everyone.

If you have recently moved to Switzerland and are unsure whether all social insurance policies have been correctly set up, we recommend checking this. Your employer should register you automatically, but it does not hurt to ask. An adviser can support you in carrying out this check and ensure that you are fully protected.

Frequently asked questions about accident insurance UVG

Many employees ask whether they retain accident insurance UVG if they change employers. Yes — the insurance is tied to your employment, not to a specific company. When you change your workplace, your new employer will automatically register you with his insurance. There are no gaps or waiting periods — cover is continuous.

Another frequently asked question: what happens if my employer does not obtain accident insurance? This is illegal — every employer in Switzerland must insure their employees. If you suspect this is not the case, you can contact SUVA or arrange a free consultation with an adviser. SUVA (Swiss Accident Insurance Institution) is also available online at suva.ch and provides further information.

Conclusion: Protection you can rely on

Accident insurance UVG is important protection in Switzerland that protects you and your family against the financial consequences of workplace accidents. As a newcomer or foreign employee, you have the same rights and insurance cover as Swiss employees. Should you have questions about your insurance cover or be unsure whether everything is set up correctly, do not hesitate to take action.

Arrange a free consultation with Helpner — your adviser can help you review your accident insurance UVG, answer all your questions, and ensure you are fully covered. As a newcomer in Switzerland, it is important to understand the local systems, and that is exactly what we are here for.