Three pathways depending on your profile
Foreign physicians must complete a recognition process before practising in Switzerland. The applicable pathway depends on your profile and diploma origin.
Direct recognition
The simplest and most common pathway for physicians holding EU or EFTA diplomas and nationality.
If your diploma was issued within the EU or EFTA and you hold EU or EFTA nationality, your degree generally benefits from direct recognition under European agreements.
After validation by MEBEKO, your diploma is registered in MedReg and you may continue toward cantonal licensing.
Approx. 3 months
B2 French required
CHF 800–1,000 per diploma
Common for French, Belgian, German, Portuguese, Spanish and Italian physicians
Beyond MEBEKO recognition
MEBEKO recognition alone is not enough to practise independently in Switzerland. Additional administrative, legal and operational steps are required before opening your practice.
To practise under your own responsibility, you must obtain a cantonal licence issued by the local health authority. Requirements differ between Geneva and Vaud.
One partner for the entire setup process
MedSuisse coordinates the medical, administrative, legal and operational aspects of practice setup in French-speaking Switzerland.
Assessment of your nationality, diploma, specialty and target canton to identify the applicable pathway and a realistic timeline.
Engagement structure
Fees depend on the complexity of the recognition pathway and the scope of coordination required.
EU or EFTA physician
Direct recognitionCHF 12,000–20,000Non-EU physician
Complex pathwayCHF 18,000–50,000Official fees billed separately:
- MEBEKO fees
- Cantonal practice licence fees
- Certified translations
- External legal or notarial costs
Common consultation questions
The essentials to understand before opening a practice in Switzerland.
For EU/EFTA physicians, the full process from MEBEKO filing to practice opening typically takes 9 to 14 months. For non-EU physicians, the timeline depends on your current recognition status and clinical integration requirements. Most projects run between 18 and 30 months. MedSuisse maps your specific timeline at the start of the engagement, based on your profile and target canton.