Businesses · Geneva

Business insurance in the canton of Geneva

The essential insurance for an SME or a self-employed person in Geneva: legal obligations, protecting the business and the staff.

Illustration: the tiger as a craftsman in front of his workshop

Updated on 05.10.2026

What is specific to the canton

Geneva has a cantonal maternity insurance, funded by employer and employee contributions, which tops up the federal allowance. The canton also applies a minimum wage, to be included when calculating insured salaries.

Points to check

Accident insurance (UVG/LAA) compulsory for every employee from day one
Sickness loss-of-earnings cover, often required by the collective labour agreement
Occupational pension (BVG/LPP) from the entry threshold (22'680 CHF annual salary in 2026)
Business liability, property, business interruption and cyber, depending on the activity

To go further, read our full guide: Insurance for SMEs and the self-employed.

Frequently asked questions

Which insurance is compulsory for a business in Geneva?

Accident insurance (UVG/LAA) for all employees and the occupational pension (BVG/LPP) from the entry threshold. Social insurance (AHV, IV, EO, ALV, family allowances) comes on top.

Does a self-employed person need insurance?

Accident (UVG) and pension (BVG) insurance are not compulsory for self-employed people themselves, but accident, loss-of-earnings and pension cover is strongly recommended.

How to cut costs?

An annual review lets you remove duplicates, adjust the sums insured and compare offers with the same cover.

Other cantons

Other insurance in the canton of Geneva

General information, not personal advice. Cantonal rules can change: an adviser checks your situation before any decision.