Recognition of foreign medical qualifications in Switzerland

Relevant legal framework

Recognition of foreign medical qualifications

• MedBG (SR 811.11), Art. 15 — recognition of foreign medical diplomas.
• MedBG, Art. 21 — recognition of foreign postgraduate / specialist medical titles.
• MedBV (SR 811.112.0) — implementing provisions on medical qualifications, registration and language-related requirements.
• Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons (FZA), Annex III — Swiss-EU framework for recognition of professional qualifications.
• Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications — applicable in the Swiss-EU relationship insofar as incorporated and adapted through Annex III FZA.

Professional practice in Switzerland

• MedBG, Art. 33a — MedReg entry and necessary language knowledge.
• MedBG, Art. 34–36 — cantonal authorisation for professional activity in one's own professional responsibility.
• MedBG, Art. 40 — professional duties.
• Cantonal health law — additional cantonal authorisation and supervisory requirements.
• KVG (SR 832.10), Art. 37 and KVV (SR 832.102) — additional requirements where services are billed to compulsory health insurance (OKP).

Competent bodies

• MEBEKO — recognition or registration of the medical diploma and recognition of foreign specialist titles.
• MedReg — professional register and language entries.
• Cantonal health authority — professional-practice authorisation and supervision.
• Cantonal authority for OKP admission — separate admission where services are billed to compulsory health insurance.