How long do I have to pay in to get a Swiss pension?

I am Swiss but spent most of my life traveling. I just returned to Switzerland and managed to find a job. I will turn 64 in just over a year and want to know whether I can claim a pension then, event though I have never paid to social security until now. Can I get a pension? How much money will I get?

Hi there,

Your Swiss social security pension (1a) and occupational pension (2a) are both based on the length of time over which you contributed to the scheme and the size of contributions. If you only pay into these schemes for 1 or 2 years, you will receive a pension which reflects the contributions you paid. Unlike some other countries, Switzerland does not guarantee a minimum pension to all citizens.

However, if you are entitled to any kind of social security pension at all and you reside in Switzerland, you may be eligible to receive supplementary old-age benefits from your social security office. This effectively extends your social security pension up to an amount considered necessary to maintain a decent standard of living.

The exact requirements and regulations vary depending on where in Switzerland you live, as do the amounts of money you are entitled to receive. Pro Senectute provides an supplementary benefits calculator which can help you get an idea of the amount of benefits you may be entitled to recieve in addition to your pension.

Best regards from Moneyguru

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