Giving birth to a child is an extraordinary moment that requires the parent’s full trust, not only in the attending maternity clinic, but also in the medical staff. Giving birth abroad makes this experience even more special because both birth preparation and labour itself happen in a foreign country and, therefore, in unfamiliar surroundings.
The medical staff members of our Hirslanden maternity clinics, which are located all over Switzerland, are highly prepared for childbirths of international parents and are delighted to accompany you on this exciting journey.
Our staff stands out due to years of experience and highly qualified expertise. All our doctors speak English and, in case of any language difficulties, we will happily organise an interpreter for you.
Arrival
When do I have to enter Switzerland?
If you come to Switzerland only to give birth, please make sure to enter the country in good time. If you are planning to come to Switzerland by plane, you should aim to be here by the time you reach the 36th week of pregnancy.
For health reasons, some airlines do not allow pregnant women to fly after this time. The airline may also require you to provide a medical certificate. Your gynaecologist will gladly help you organise the necessary paperwork.
Checklist: Hospital Bag
Checklist: What to pack in your hospital bag
Our packing list has been created specifically for your stay in our hospital. On the list, you will find a list of documents and utensils that you should not forget to have with you for the delivery of your baby.
Four weeks prior to your due date, by the 36th week of pregnancy at the latest, your hospital bag should have arrived in Switzerland.
Get our practical checklist for your hospital stay.
Preparation
What do I have to keep in mind before the delivery?
Please let us know your due date well in advance, so that the necessary check-ups can be arranged with your chosen gynaecologist.
The check-ups are usually scheduled every two weeks from the time you arrive in Switzerland until you give birth. Overnight stays at the hospital are not necessary.
For your first check-up, we kindly ask you to bring all the medical reports you have received thus far during your pregnancy, as well as any other relevant medical documentation.
If you would like to visit your chosen hospital in advance, we will happily organise an introductory meeting, including a tour of the hospital.
Please contact the Hirslanden International team to arrange an appointment.
Giving Birth
What to know about childbirth at Hirslanden
There are various possibilities to deliver your child. It is best to decide, together with your gynaecologist, if natural labour, water birth or Caesarean section will be the best option for you. Discuss your personal expectations with your doctor and/or your midwife and allow us to also advise you about the different methods.
Read more about childbirth methods at Hirslanden.
In the event of signs of labour, your midwife will inform your gynaecologist about the imminent delivery. Until his arrival, you will be attended by a midwife. Of course, your partner is very welcome to be present during labour.
In case of any unexpected complications, all necessary medical facilities and specialists will take care of you at the Hirslanden clinics so you will have no need to worry about your safety or the safety of your child.
Birth Certificate
Where do I receive the birth certification?
The birth certificate is issued by the civil registry office of the birthplace.
The hospital administration requires the following documentation for the birth announcement and registry with the local registry office:
- Binding choice of the first name on the birth registration/name card (must be completed in legible writing and signed by both parents
- Birth certificates of both parents
- Confirmation of your legal place of residence
- Marriage certificate/marriage document, or acknowledgement of paternity (if the parents are not married)
- Valid passports of both parents
Copies of these documents must be authorized by a notary and must not be older than six months. The documents required may vary depending on the nationalities of the parents. We, therefore, recommend contacting the relevant registry office for binding advice regarding your specific case.
After the birth, the hospital will submit all the necessary documents to the registry office for the registration of your child and you will receive an international birth certification.
Citizenship
What citizenship does my child hold when being birthed in Switzerland?
A child that is born in Switzerland will not automatically acquire Swiss citizenship but will hold the nationality of the registered parent instead. Only if the parents are married and at least one parent is Swiss, the child will acquire Swiss citizenship automatically at birth.
Identity Documents
Where do I receive the identity documents for my child?
You must present the birth certificate to your country’s embassy to register the birth of your newborn child and apply for an ID card or a passport so that your child can legally leave Switzerland.
For information regarding the necessary documents, please contact your embassy. The registry office will gladly help you organise these documents.
Your Journey Home
When can I return home?
You can return home when you and your baby are both doing well. The date should ideally be discussed with your gynaecologist and the paediatrician.
If you have any other questions, such as when your baby is allowed to travel by plane, we recommend talking to your doctor.
