AHV in Switzerland: First Pillar Explained

What Is AHV?

AHV is Switzerland's mandatory first-pillar state pension system, providing a baseline income at retirement, death of spouse, or disability. It is jointly funded: total AHV/IV/EO contribution is 10.6% of gross salary (5.3% employer + 5.3% employee). The employer withholds the employee share and remits the total to the AHV compensation office.

Retirement Age and Pension

Retirement age in Switzerland is 65 for both men and women (following the AHV 21 reform). In 2026, the maximum AHV pension is CHF 2,520/month; the minimum is CHF 1,260/month. Married couples receive up to 150% of a single pension (CHF 3,780/month). Pension amount depends on contribution years and average annual income.

Contribution Years and Gaps

A full AHV pension requires 44 contribution years (from age 20 to retirement). Each missing year reduces the pension by 1/44. Gaps arise from time abroad, studies, or non-employment periods. They can be partially offset by voluntary contributions or through international social security agreement credits.

AHV for Foreigners and Cross-Border Workers

Foreign employees in Switzerland are subject to AHV from their first working day, regardless of nationality or permit type. Cross-border workers (Permit G) also contribute to AHV in Switzerland. EU/EFTA citizens can have contribution years from multiple countries credited under social security coordination agreements.

Context on the Swiss job market helps frame any career decision in Switzerland. Our gross-to-net salary guide shows what Swiss gross salaries look like after AVS, LPP and tax deductions. The salary negotiation guide covers how to use market data in offer discussions and which arguments work with Swiss recruiters. Our guide to working in Switzerland as a foreigner covers entry conditions, permit categories and practical relocation steps. The work permit guide explains B, C, G and L permit categories and processing timelines. For cross-sector salary benchmarks, the Switzerland salary guide covers all major roles and cities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much are AHV contributions in Switzerland?

Total AHV/IV/EO: 10.6% of gross salary, split equally: 5.3% employer + 5.3% employee. The employer withholds the employee share and remits the total.

When does my AHV pension start?

At age 65 (for both men and women since AHV 21). Early retirement from age 63 and deferral to age 70 are possible and affect the pension amount.

What happens to my AHV contributions if I leave Switzerland?

Contribution years in Switzerland are credited. EU/EFTA citizens can combine years from multiple countries. For non-EU/EFTA nationals, credits depend on bilateral social security agreements.

Can I make voluntary AHV contributions to fill contribution gaps?

Yes, under conditions. Voluntary AHV membership is open to Swiss citizens and EU/EFTA nationals who are not insured in Switzerland or in a country with a social security agreement (AHVG Art. 2). The requirement: having been compulsorily insured for at least 1 year before age 50. Voluntary contributions are calculated on declared income and cannot exceed the maximum annual contribution. This is particularly relevant for persons who have lived abroad for extended periods or have gaps from years outside the Swiss system.

What is the 13th month salary in Switzerland?

The 13th month salary in Switzerland refers to an additional monthly salary paid once a year, typically in December. It is included in annual salary benchmarks as standard: when a Swiss employer quotes CHF 120,000 per year, this normally means 13 monthly payments of approximately CHF 9,231 each, not 12 payments of CHF 10,000. The 13th month is governed by the employment contract or collective agreement (GAV), not by statute. It is subject to social contributions (AHV/ALV) and income tax. Always clarify with a prospective employer whether a quoted annual figure includes or excludes the 13th month.