Avoiding Billag TV charges in Switzerland

Is there any way I can avoid paying the nasty Swiss TV license fees (Billag)? I don't even watch TV or listen to radio, but it seems there is no way to get around this huge extra expense. Any suggestions?

Hi there,

Currently, it is still possible to get an exemption from TV and radio license fees. You can apply for an exemption if you do not own any devices which are capable of receiving TV and radio broadcasts or subscribe to any Internet TV or Internet radio services by which you can access Swiss radio and television.

The Swiss federal government is currently working on implementing a new system by which TV licenses will automatically be charged on a per-household basis without the possibility for exemptions.

You can, however, apply for exemptions if you move into a household which already pays for a TV and radio license (a shared flat, for example) or if you are retired and receive supplementary benefits from the OASI. This will continue to apply even after the change in legislation.

Best regards from Moneyguru