Authorization to practice as a dental hygienist in Switzerland: What you need to know

Are you a dental hygienist looking to practice in Switzerland? Whether you’ve just earned your diploma, plan to work as an independent or employed hygienist, or are relocating to Switzerland, obtaining the correct authorization is essential. In Switzerland, healthcare is largely regulated at the cantonal level, and each canton has its own rules and procedures. This article summarizes the requirements for working as a dental hygienist in Switzerland to help you prepare effectively.

What are the conditions for practicing as a dental hygienist in Switzerland?

As mentioned, each Swiss canton has specific rules for dental hygienist practice permits. However, most requirements are similar and include:

1. Recognized diploma

Ensure your dental hygienist diploma is recognized, whether earned in Switzerland or abroad. If you studied in Switzerland, recognition is typically straightforward.

2. Submit an application to the relevant authority

The responsible authority varies by canton and may include the cantonal medical office, health department, or other entities. Application forms are often available on the canton’s official website. Depending on the canton, you may submit these forms online, via email, or by mail.

3. Complete administrative documentation

Prepare a full set of supporting documents, such as:

• Copy of your diploma
• CV
• Extract from your criminal record
• Proof of liability insurance (RC)

4. Fees and processing times

Administrative fees range from CHF 200 to CHF 800, depending on the canton. Processing times vary from 2 weeks to over 2 months. Visit the cantonal websites for more specific information.

5. Proactive communication

Don’t hesitate to contact the relevant department directly (e.g., Gesundheitsamt, cantonal medical office, or public health office) to clarify any questions, especially if you hold a foreign diploma or plan to bill through mandatory health insurance (OKP). A list of responsible offices by canton is provided at the end of this article.

Exceptions in certain cantons for employed hygienists

In some cantons—such as Basel-Stadt, Lucerne, Appenzell Innerrhoden, Graubünden, and Solothurn—an authorization is not required if another dental hygienist assumes responsibility and oversight for you.

Recognition of foreign diplomas

If your diploma was obtained outside Switzerland, it must be recognized by the appropriate authorities. Typically, two organizations are responsible:

1. State Secretariat for Education, Research, and Innovation (SERI)

This federal agency oversees the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.

2. Swiss Red Cross (SRC)

The SRC handles recognition for certain health professions, including dental hygiene, based on current regulations.

For individuals from EU or EFTA countries, the agreement on the free movement of persons applies, provided your diploma is validated, and specific administrative requirements are met (e.g., residence permit, work authorization). Before pursuing cantonal approval, ensure your diploma is federally recognized and obtain an official recognition certificate if needed.

Relevant authorities by canton

French-Speaking Cantons

• Genève: Service du médecin cantonal – ge.ch
• Vaud: État de Vaud – Office du médecin cantonal – vd.ch
• Valais: Département de la santé, des affaires sociales et de la culture – vs.ch
• Neuchâtel: Service de la santé publique – ne.ch
• Fribourg: Service de la santé publique – fr.ch
• Jura: République et canton du Jura – Médecin cantonal – jura.ch

German-Speaking Cantons

• Aargau: Departement Gesundheit und Soziales – ag.ch
• Appenzell Ausserrhoden: Fachstelle Gesundheitsfachpersonen, Amt für Gesundheit – ar.ch
• Appenzell Innerrhoden: Gesundheitsamt – ai.ch
• Basel-Landschaft: Amt für Gesundheit – baselland.ch
• Basel-Stadt: Medizinische Dienste des Gesundheitsdepartements – bs.ch
• Bern: Gesundheits-, Sozial- und Integrationsdirektion (GSI) – gsi.be.ch
• Glarus: Finanzen und Gesundheit – gl.ch
• Graubünden: Gesundheitsamt Graubünden – gr.ch
• Luzern: Dienststelle Gesundheit und Sport – gesundheit.lu.ch
• Nidwalden: Gesundheitsamt – nw.ch
• Obwalden: Gesundheitsamt – ow.ch
• Schaffhausen: Gesundheitsamt – sh.ch
• Schwyz: Amt für Gesundheit und Soziales – sz.ch
• Solothurn: Gesundheitsamt – so.ch
• St. Gallen: Gesundheitsdepartement – sg.ch
• Thurgau: Amt für Gesundheit – gesundheit.tg.ch
• Uri: Amt für Gesundheit – ur.ch
• Zug: Medizinische Abteilung – zg.ch
• Zürich: Gesundheitsdirektion – zh.ch

Italian-Speaking Cantons

• Ticino: Ufficio di sanità – ti.ch

Ready to practice as a dental hygienist?

You now have the essential information to prepare your application and practice legally. If you’re uncertain about any step, consult the official websites of the relevant cantons or contact their health authorities directly.