We are moving to Zurich from India next month with our 1.5-year-old daughter and would greatly appreciate any advice or insights on the following topics:
Family-Friendly Neighborhoods:
Could you suggest neighborhoods in Zurich with parks, playgrounds, or other toddler-friendly activities?
Health Insurance:
How much should we budget for health insurance?
Is it typically covered entirely by employees, or do companies also contribute as part of employment contracts?
What is generally covered for toddlers—normal sickness, vaccinations, emergency room visits, etc.?
Employment Opportunities:
I currently work as a Talent Acquisition Recruiter in India, with expertise in HRIS and data management. Are there job opportunities in Zurich for recruiters with similar experience? Additionally, how does the job search process work for dependents of L-permit holders?
Daycare Costs:
What are the typical daycare costs in Zurich, and how do the facilities operate for toddlers?
Looking forward to your recommendations and advice!
Can’t comment on Zurich neighbours since I’m not in that part of the country.
Health insurance - only accident is covered by employers; maybe individual employers might offter more, but you’d have to ask about that. Use comparis.ch to compare health insurance costs. You will need to add accident cover for yourself and the child though your husband will be covered for that by his employer.
Under Art. 26 ASEO, members of the family of holders of a short-term residence («L») permit may be given permission to pursue gainful employment if an application is submitted by an employer, and if the rules on pay and working conditions, as well as personal qualifications, are satisfied.
Spouses and children of holders of permanent residence permits have the right to work, without needing to go through any additional authorisation procedure (Art. 27 ASEO). However, such employment is limited in duration by the validity of the original permit held by the spouse or parent."
The monthly cost of mandatory health insurance starts around 350 CHF for adults for year 2025. That prices is linked to the highest annual deductible . Additional coverages can be contracted and thus the sky is the limit for costs.
Check the page Medea recommended for quick price quotes. It is not a health insurance company, it’s a website aimed at price comparison.
Usually, health insurance is not covered by employers. But, all contracts are different.
