LAMal and an EMS abroad
LAMal (the Federal Health Insurance Act) establishes compulsory health insurance in Switzerland. A key question arises before a long-term stay in an EMS abroad: does this cover follow you?
LAMal is tied to residence in Switzerland
The obligation to insure under LAMal stems from residence in Switzerland. If you permanently move your residence to a country outside the EU/EFTA — which is the case for Tunisia — you generally leave compulsory insurance. In practice, LAMal does not cover a stay in an EMS in Tunisia.
What to plan
For a life project in Tunisia, you should take out private or international health insurance covering care and medicalised accommodation on site. Some special situations (temporary stay, pensioner status, dual residence) may change the rules: a discussion with your health insurer is essential.
A cost-controlled solution
Even including private insurance, the overall cost of an EMS in Tunisia remains far below that of a Swiss EMS. For pensions, see our guide AVS/AI pension in Tunisia.
Discover our residences in Tunisia and contact us for support.
General, non-contractual information. LAMal rules evolve and depend on your situation. Check with your health insurer and the competent authorities (FOPH) before any decision.
Frequently asked questions
Does LAMal cover an EMS abroad?
Compulsory health insurance (LAMal) is tied to residence in Switzerland. If you permanently move your residence to a non-EU/EFTA country such as Tunisia, you generally leave compulsory insurance: LAMal then does not cover a stay in an EMS there. Private or international health insurance should be arranged.
How to be properly covered in Tunisia?
Check with your health insurer before leaving, and take out suitable international health insurance. Every situation (AVS pensioner, temporary stay, dual residence) is different.