Family
Apply for family allowances
Family allowances are not granted ex officio: employees apply through their employer to its family compensation fund. The federal government sets minimum rates for the child allowance and the education allowance, and many cantons pay more; the employer's fund is decisive. Each child gives rise to one entitlement only — if both parents work, a statutory order of precedence determines who receives it. Back payments are possible for at most five years.
Who this applies to. This guide applies if at least one child is moving too and the employment situation in Switzerland is either Employed, Self-employed or Posted worker.
Checklist
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Submit the application to your employer
Your employer forwards it to its family compensation fund; without an application nothing is paid out.
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Enclose the children's birth certificates
For children born abroad the fund may require a certified translation.
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Clarify the other parent's entitlement
Each child gives rise to one entitlement only; the statutory order of precedence determines who is entitled.
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Check the rates of your canton of residence
The federal government sets minimum rates and many cantons pay more; your employer's family compensation fund can tell you which apply.
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Check retroactive payment
Allowances can be claimed retroactively for at most 5 years.
Costs
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Application fee free of charge
The application goes through your employer to the family compensation fund and is free of charge.
No total: the items depend on conditions and on your situation. A total without your answers would be too high or too low depending on the case — the cost calculation in your plan uses them.
Frequently asked questions
Who does this guide apply to?
This guide applies if at least one child is moving too and the employment situation in Switzerland is either Employed, Self-employed or Posted worker.
What does it cost?
Application fee: free of charge.
What do I need to do?
Submit the application to your employer; Enclose the children's birth certificates; Clarify the other parent's entitlement; Check the rates of your canton of residence; Check retroactive payment.
As of: 08.10.2026