A-Z for Newcomers

Under "Good to know" on the Welcome & Euraxess Center website, you will find helpful information to make your arrival and life in Basel easier. This includes details on public holidays, important emergency numbers and contact points in Basel-Stadt, as well as useful facts about scholarships, Swiss customs, and everyday peculiarities.

Anyone living in Switzerland must generally take out Swiss health insurance (“Krankenkasse”). Insurance must usually be arranged within three months of moving to Switzerland. The total monthly premium (basic insurance and any supplementary insurance) depends on your chosen insurance model, your canton of residence, and your chosen deductible (franchise). To better understand these topics, we recommend reading the cantonal brochure "Medical insurance the smart way". You can also contact the Welcome & Euraxess Center for an informational discussion (Master's students can contact social advice service directly for this). The state platform Priminfo and the private platform Comparis are also recommended for comparing different health insurers, insurance models, and premiums.

Tip: Also check out the "Insurances" section on our website to find information on the various types of insurance.

Alongside official university events like the Welcome Day for employees or the GRACE online event, the International Office (including the Welcome & Euraxess Center and Student Exchange) organizes various intercultural events during the semester, such as Café International or the International Run. Visit the "Welcome Events" section to learn more about internal events or to sign up.

Tip: Take advantage of the external GGG Migration welcome events that take place several times a year to learn a bit more about Switzerland.