Childcare Subsidies in Switzerland

Childcare in Switzerland is expensive — but many families are entitled to subsidies without knowing it. This guide explains the different models and shows you how to get support.

The Three Subsidy Models

1. Income-Based Rates (Direct Funding)

The municipality subsidizes the daycare directly. You pay a rate based on your taxable income and assets.

Where: Zürich, Basel, Zug, and many other cantons.

Advantage: Simple — you just pay the reduced rate. Disadvantage: You are limited to subsidized daycare centers.

2. Childcare Vouchers (Individual Funding)

You receive a voucher from the municipality and redeem it at an approved daycare center. You choose the daycare freely.

Where: Bern and Luzern.

Advantage: Freedom of choice — you can choose any approved daycare. Disadvantage: Not available in all municipalities.

3. Employer Funds (Fund Model)

Employers contribute to childcare costs through a fund. The contribution is 0.04–0.18% of the total payroll.

Where: Romandie (Waadt, Freiburg, Neuenburg).

Who Is Eligible?

The exact requirements vary by municipality, but typical criteria include:

• Employment of both parents
• Income threshold (often CHF 100'000–160'000 taxable income)
• Residence in the relevant municipality
• Child below school age

How to Apply for Subsidies

1. Contact your municipality — Ask the social services department or the family services office
2. Prepare documents — Tax return, pay certificate, childcare contract
3. Submit your application — Online or on paper, depending on the municipality
4. Wait for the decision — Usually 2–4 weeks

Highlight: Basel-Stadt

Since 2024, eligible families pay a maximum of CHF 1'600 per month for a full-time place. For the third child, childcare is even free.

Tip

Check your entitlement even with a middle income — the thresholds are often higher than you might think.