Advance planning in Switzerland
Plan ahead
for what matters
Four documents for peace of mind, for you and for those you love. Explained simply, step by step.
The 4 topics
Everything you need
to know in Switzerland
Every document has its place, and its right moment. Here you will find clear explanations on all important planning topics.
01 · Funeral planning
Shape your farewell with dignity
Decide now how your farewell should look, what type of burial, what wishes. Spare your loved ones in one of the most difficult moments.
02 · Advance care directive
Your voice when you must stay silent
Designate who will represent you if illness or accident prevents you from deciding yourself. Regulated since 2013 in the Swiss Civil Code.
03 · Living will
Binding medical wishes
What should happen if you are unconscious and can no longer communicate? A living will ensures your medical wishes are respected.
04 · End-of-life arrangements
Everything arranged for your loved ones
Who inherits what? Where are important documents? End-of-life arrangements give your loved ones guidance and save a great deal of effort.
Why plan ahead?
Planning ahead is a
gift to your loved ones
Those who plan ahead in time protect not only themselves, they also relieve the people who are close to their hearts.
Your wishes will be respected, even when you can no longer express them yourself. Planning ahead gives you control.
In exceptional situations, loved ones make decisions under great pressure. Your planning documents take this burden from them.
Without an advance directive, APEA can intervene and appoint a stranger. With your documents, you decide for yourself.
Planning ahead is not just for older people. An accident can happen to anyone, prepared people of all ages are on the safe side.
Frequently asked questions
What many people
want to know
All four documents complement each other, none replaces another. Many people start with the advance care directive: it determines who decides for you and is the foundation for everything else.
Fundamentally from the age of 18. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any age. Planning becomes particularly important from age 50, in cases of dementia diagnosis or after the loss of a partner.
No. Most planning documents can be written by yourself. Strict formal rules apply to the advance care directive and the will (handwritten, dated and signed). For complex family or financial situations, a notary is advisable.
Reliable information is available on the federal portal ch.ch, from the child and adult protection authority (KESB) of your municipality, your family doctor and organisations such as Pro Senectute or the Swiss Red Cross.
Yes, as long as you have mental capacity, all documents can be changed or revoked at any time. Important: inform everyone who holds a copy (civil registry, doctor, trusted persons).
Further help
Official information
and legal advice
This page provides general information and does not replace legal advice. For your personal situation, please contact a notary, the KESB of your municipality or your family doctor.