How to Withdraw Remaining Pension Funds in Switzerland (2nd Pillar Guide)

In Switzerland, the occupational pension system (commonly known as the 2nd pillar or BVG/Pensionskasse) allows individuals to access their retirement savings under specific legal conditions. Many residents who have already withdrawn part of their pension funds often ask whether they can withdraw the remaining balance again.

Can You Withdraw Pension Funds Again?

Yes, in certain situations, individuals who have previously withdrawn part of their pension funds—such as for buying a home or leaving Switzerland—may still be able to access remaining funds.

However, eligibility depends on the reason for the first withdrawal and current legal conditions.

Key Rule: Waiting Period and Conditions

If you have withdrawn pension funds more than 5 years ago, you may still be eligible to withdraw remaining balances, depending on your current pension status and contribution history.

The pension fund institution will review:

• Your employment status
• Remaining accumulated pension savings
• Reason for previous withdrawal
• Current residence and insurance status

Common Reasons for Pension Withdrawal

Swiss law allows pension withdrawal in cases such as:

• Purchasing a primary home (EPL/WEF scheme)
• Leaving Switzerland permanently
• Starting self-employment
• Retirement age eligibility

How Much Can You Withdraw?

The amount depends on your accumulated 2nd pillar savings. If only part of the pension was previously withdrawn, the remaining balance continues to grow through contributions and investment returns.

Important Conditions

Before approving a new withdrawal, pension authorities check:

• Whether you are still insured under BVG
• Whether legal conditions for withdrawal are met
• Whether previous withdrawals were partial or full

Where to Apply

Requests must be submitted directly to your pension fund provider (Pensionskasse). Each institution has its own rules, forms, and verification process.

Important Advice

Incorrect or incomplete applications can delay approval. It is important to contact your pension fund office directly for accurate calculation and eligibility confirmation.

Swiss pension rules are strict but flexible depending on personal financial and employment circumstances.

Swiss Old-Age Pension Payments Hit Record High.

Switzerland has reported a record rise in old-age pension payments, reflecting the country’s steadily ageing population. According to the Federal Social Insurance Office, a total of 2.64 million old-age pensions were paid out last year, marking a 1.6% increase compared to the previous year.

The data shows that Switzerland continues to experience a consistent rise in pension recipients. In the previous year, the number of beneficiaries had already increased by around 1.8%, adding approximately 44,000 new pensioners. In the latest reporting period, a further net increase of about 40,400 people was recorded.

By the end of 2025, the Swiss pension system was paying out a total of around 2.91 million pensions, including old-age pensions as well as widows’, widowers’, and orphans’ benefits. Notably, around one-third of these pensions are being paid to individuals living outside Switzerland, highlighting the global nature of Swiss retirement distribution.

Despite the growing number of beneficiaries, the Swiss pension system remained financially stable. It closed the year with a surplus, as total income exceeded expenditure by CHF1.8 billion. When investment income is included, the overall operating result reached CHF4.4 billion, although this was lower than the CHF5.6 billion recorded the previous year.

The continued growth in pension payouts reflects demographic changes in Switzerland, where an ageing population is placing increasing pressure on long-term social insurance systems. Policymakers continue to monitor sustainability measures to ensure that future generations receive stable retirement support.

The report has sparked renewed discussion about retirement planning, cost of living for pensioners, and the financial balance of Switzerland’s public pension system.