Worked in Switzerland? Which Croatians Are Eligible for the 13th Pension Payment?

Croatian citizens who worked in Switzerland and now live in Croatia could be eligible for an additional pension payment this December. Switzerland’s 13th old-age pension payment is due to be paid for the first time in December 2026, and eligible recipients will receive it automatically, without having to submit a separate application.

Elisabeth Hostettler, spokesperson for the Swiss Federal Social Insurance Office (BSV), confirmed the details to the Voice of Croatia.

Swiss voters approved the introduction of the 13th pension payment in a referendum on March 3, 2024. The additional payment will be made annually in December to everyone entitled to a Swiss old-age pension in that month.

The measure also covers Croatian citizens who worked in Switzerland, qualified for a Swiss old-age pension and subsequently returned to Croatia or moved there.

Who is eligible for the 13th pension payment?

Croatian citizenship and previous employment in Switzerland are not enough to qualify. Applicants must meet the requirements of the Swiss pension system, which generally include at least one year of contributions to Switzerland’s old-age and survivors’ insurance scheme (AHV/AVS), as well as the applicable retirement-age requirements.

Under social security coordination rules between Switzerland and the European Union, people entitled to a Swiss old-age pension can generally continue receiving it while living in Croatia.

Hostettler explained to the Voice of Croatia that payments to foreign nationals depend on international rules and agreements governing the payment of Swiss pensions to recipients living abroad.

Existing recipients do not need to apply separately for the 13th payment. Those who worked in Switzerland but have not yet qualified for a pension must first apply for their regular Swiss pension.

How much will the additional payment be?

The 13th payment will equal one-twelfth of the total Swiss old-age pension paid to the recipient during the calendar year.

For example, someone who receives 1,300 Swiss francs per month throughout the year will receive an additional 1,300 francs in December.

If a person becomes eligible during the year, or their pension amount changes, the additional payment will be calculated according to the amounts actually paid.

The scheme applies exclusively to old-age pensions. Standalone disability and survivors’ pensions are not eligible.

Where can Croatian citizens check their eligibility?

Croatian citizens who worked in Switzerland but do not yet receive a Swiss pension can contact the Croatian Pension Insurance Institute (HZMO).

The institute can coordinate the application process with the relevant Swiss authorities under international social security arrangements.

Each country assesses pension entitlement separately under its own legislation, so eligibility for a Swiss pension depends on meeting Switzerland’s requirements.