Family allowances: money most parents are already receiving

Switzerland provides mandatory family allowances for children. The federal minimum is CHF 200 per month per child under 16, with additional education allowances for older children in education. Many cantons pay above the federal minimum. These allowances are paid by your employer as part of the payroll process and should appear on your payslip. If they do not, contact your employer's HR department to confirm you are registered correctly.

Childcare cost deductions on your tax return

Documented childcare costs for children under 14 are deductible on the Swiss federal tax return and most cantonal returns. The deduction is available for third-party childcare including nurseries, daycare, and au pairs, but not for care by a parent or close family member. The federal deduction limit is CHF 25,000 per year per child. For immigrant families in cities where nursery costs can run CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,500 per month per child, this deduction is significant and should be claimed in full.

Savings and investment structures for children in Switzerland

Switzerland does not have a dedicated tax-advantaged children's savings account equivalent to a UK Junior ISA or US 529 plan. Custodial investment accounts at brokerages allow equity investment for minors, with capital gains in Switzerland being generally tax-free for private investors. The most straightforward approach for most families is a dedicated savings or investment account in the child's name, kept separate from family accounts to track progress clearly.

Education costs and funding in Switzerland

Swiss public schools are free and of high quality throughout the compulsory schooling period. International schools cost CHF 20,000 to CHF 40,000 per year per child and are not tax-deductible for most families. University education at Swiss public universities is heavily subsidised with tuition fees of approximately CHF 1,000 to CHF 2,000 per semester, making tertiary education one area where the Swiss system is significantly more affordable than anglophone countries.