Deadlines guide
Notice periods in Switzerland: the big overview
Last updated: July 2026
The most important notice periods in Switzerland at a glance: flats usually have a three-month period on customary termination dates, employment contracts one to three months to month-end depending on years of service, basic health insurance must reach the insurer by end of November, and subscriptions depend on the contract and minimum term. Your specific contract is always decisive – the table below shows the usual values.
Notice periods at a glance
The table summarises typical periods. It does not replace checking your contract, as many periods can be set differently by contract. For the start of the period, what usually counts is receipt by the recipient, not the postmark.
Usual notice periods (without warranty):
| Contract | Usual period / date |
|---|---|
| Flat (rent) | 3 months on customary dates, per the lease |
| Employment contract | 1–3 months to month-end, by years of service |
| Basic health insurance (KVG) | receipt by end of November, switch on 1 January |
| Supplementary insurance (VVG) | per the policy, often 3 months to year-end |
| Subscriptions (fitness, telecom, streaming) | per contract, often 1–3 months before the minimum term ends |
| SERAFE (radio/TV levy) | tied to conditions, e.g. dissolution of the household |
Meeting the deadline correctly
Because for many contracts it is receipt of the cancellation that counts, plan for the postal transit time and don’t wait until the last day. Allow a few working days of buffer.
For time-critical cancellations, sending by registered mail (from CHF 8.99) is recommended: you get proof of posting and the item is handed over against signature. That lets you prove timely sending.
Fill in and send the cancellation online
For the most common cancellations there are ready-made templates: flat, employment contract, health insurance, fitness, telecom and credit-card subscriptions. You fill in the template online, check the PDF preview and we hand the letter to Swiss Post – no printer and no account.
This overview is for orientation only and does not constitute legal advice. Notice periods can vary by contract, policy, canton or legal change – if in doubt, check with the relevant body.
Frequently asked questions
Does the postmark or receipt count?
For most contracts it is receipt of the cancellation by the recipient that counts, not the postmark. So plan for the postal transit time.
How long is the notice period for a flat?
Usually three months on the customary dates per the lease. Check your contract, as differing rules are possible.
By when can I cancel health insurance?
Cancellation of basic insurance must usually reach the insurer by end of November for the switch to take effect on 1 January.
How do I cancel a subscription on time?
Subscriptions depend on the contract and minimum term; often you must cancel one to three months before the end. Check the contract terms.
Should I cancel by registered mail?
For time-critical cancellations, registered mail (from CHF 8.99) is recommended because it lets you prove sending. It is advice, not a general obligation.
Send the cancellation now
Choose the right template, fill it in online and send it straight by post – no printer, no account.