The Swiss authorities online
The Swiss authorities online
Federal councillors live a life very similar to that of the general public. For example, it is not unusual to pass them in the street or see them on public transport without a bodyguard. Of course, these ministers of state do enjoy certain privileges as a result of their position, in particular financial, but unlike in some other countries, they pay taxes and rent.
Federal councillors earn about CHF 445,000 per annum, and receive another CHF 30,000 annually for expenses. In addition to this sum, the President of the Swiss Confederation receives an annual indemnity of CHF 12,000.
Former federal councillors receive a pension equivalent to half the salary of Federal Council members in office. This pension is granted as soon as they leave their post, provided they have been a member of the government for at least four years (or sooner if they had to retire for health reasons), regardless of whether or not they have reached the official retirement age. If they leave office before having held it for four years, they may also receive a partial pension.
Once they have retired from office, former federal councillors frequently pursue some other lucrative activity. Their earnings, when added to the pension they receive as an ex-federal councillor, may not exceed the salary of a federal councillor in office, otherwise their pension is reduced accordingly.
Whilst in office, all federal councillors enjoy a certain number of special benefits, from free telephone contracts to a chauffeur-driven car for official business, a courtesy car for personal use or the use of federal planes and helicopters for official business trips. Each member of the Federal Council also has the right to a first-class SBB GA travelcard (also in retirement). They are also given personal security, which is often very discreet.
To find out more about the various benefits granted to members of the government, go to: