Your trusted assistant in Switzerland
We help you with paperwork, letters, and everyday questions. We support you with everything you need: life in Switzerland, work, housing, insurance, phone, car, and much more.
MIA
Your assistant in Switzerland
Online
Hello! 👋
How can I help you today?
- Quick answerswhen you need them
- For everyoneresidents, newcomers, and workers
- Reliable and safeyour data is protected
- In your language8 languages
What do you need today?
- I just arrivedDocuments and first steps, in order.
- I have a letterTake a photo and we’ll explain it to you.
- I have a problemScams, unfair bills, phone or insurance contracts.
- Ask MIAAsk anything, anytime.
- No sign-up for your first question
- Available in 8 languages
- Privacy and security
How can we help you?
With anything you come across in Switzerland. Pick a topic and ask.
- Letters and translationsWe translate and explain any official letter.
- Subsidies and supportPremium reduction (Prämienverbilligung), social help, scholarships.
- Traffic and carStrassenverkehrsamt, driving licence, registration, MFK, fines.
- Permits and migrationPermit L, B or C, renewals, family reunification.
- TaxesTax return, bills, and deadlines.
- InsuranceHealth insurance, deductibles, changes, and bills.
- Phone and internetContracts, cancellations, and bills you don't understand.
- Scams and abuseProblems or scams with companies, insurance, or sellers.
- Debts and collectionsMahnung, Betreibung, Inkasso: what to do.
- WorkContract, salary, dismissal, unemployment (RAV).
- HousingRent, deposit, costs (Nebenkosten), moving.
- Family and schoolDaycare, school, and family support.
Your first steps in Switzerland
- 1
Before coming
Gather your documents (passport, birth certificate, work contract…). Use the list below so you don’t forget anything.
- 2
Register in your commune
When you arrive, go to the residents’ office (Einwohnerkontrolle / contrôle des habitants) in your commune. Usually within the first 14 days; your commune sets the exact deadline.
- 3
Get health insurance
It’s mandatory for everyone living in Switzerland. You have 3 months from your arrival to get it.
- 4
Your residence permit
The migration office of your canton handles your permit (L, B, C…). Keep all their letters safe: they often have deadlines.
- 5
Bank account and AHV number
Open an account to receive your salary. Your AHV (social security) number is on your health insurance card.
- 6
Apply for help paying insurance
If your income is low, your canton can pay part of your health insurance premium (premium reduction).
How MIA explains a letter to you
- 1Take a photo of the letter or upload it as a PDF.
- 2MIA reads it and explains what it means, in your language.
- 3You see what you can do, by when, and who to contact.
Zahlungserinnerung — Rechnung Nr. 000-DEMO. Betrag: CHF 312.40. Bitte bezahlen Sie bis am 30. November 2026.
What is this letter?
It is a payment reminder for a health insurance bill.
- Amount stated: CHF 312.40
- Payment date stated: 30 November 2026
What can I do now?
If the bill is correct, you can pay it. If you disagree or cannot pay, contact the insurer before that date.
Learn German with us
Online group classes, twice a week, with a WhatsApp group to practice. Levels A1–A2 and B1–B2. From CHF 25 per class and the first one is free.