Voluntary Swiss OASI/IV scheme

If you no longer live in Switzerland, are no longer subject to the compulsory Swiss Old-Age and Survivors Insurance scheme (OASI) and the Swiss Invalidity Insurance scheme (IV), and you live in a country that is not a member of the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), you can maintain your insurance cover in Switzerland by paying into the voluntary OASI/IV scheme, provided that you meet the membership requirements (OASIA, SR 831.10/InvIA, SR831.20/VOASIO, SR 831.111).

Federal Act on Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASIA, SR 831.10) (de, fr, it)

Federal Act on Invalidity Insurance (InvIA, SR 831.20) (de, fr, it)

Federal Ordinance on Voluntary Old-Age, Survivors and Invalidity Insurance (VOASIO, SR. 831.11) (de, fr, it)

Anyone wishing to take out voluntary OASI cover should apply to the Swiss Compensation Office (SCO) in Geneva within one year of leaving the compulsory OASI scheme.

The Central Compensation Office (CCO) website has information on membership requirements and the application process..

Central Compensation Office: Voluntary insurance

Central Compensation Office: Leaflets and brochures on compulsory and voluntary OASI/IV cover

The Swiss representation that covers the country where you live will be pleased to provide you with more information on the voluntary OASI/IV scheme.

Generally speaking, joining the voluntary Swiss insurance scheme does not release you from any compulsory social security obligations you have in another country. The competent social security office in your country of residence can provide you with more information on your rights and obligations.