The UK and Switzerland have a social security agreement in place, which helps individuals who are either living or working in either country understand their social security entitlements.

The agreement came into effect in 1981, and it ensures that the social security laws of the two countries do not overlap or conflict with each other. This is particularly useful for those who move between the UK and Switzerland, as they do not need to worry about losing their social security entitlements or paying double contributions.

Under the agreement, individuals who are subject to the social security laws of one country can continue to pay contributions to that country`s social security system while working in the other country. This means that if you are a UK citizen who is working in Switzerland, you can continue to pay into the UK social security system and vice versa.

The agreement also means that you may be entitled to certain social security benefits in both countries. For example, if you are a UK citizen who has paid into the UK social security system and then moves to Switzerland, you may still be entitled to receive UK benefits such as the State Pension.

Similarly, if you are a Swiss citizen who has paid into the Swiss social security system and then moves to the UK, you may still be entitled to receive Swiss benefits such as old-age and survivors` insurance.

It is important to note that the social security agreement does not cover healthcare. If you are living in Switzerland and need medical treatment, you will need to take out health insurance in Switzerland. If you are a UK citizen living in Switzerland, you may be entitled to receive healthcare through the Swiss healthcare system.

In conclusion, the UK and Switzerland social security agreement provides important protection for individuals who are working or living in either country. It ensures that social security entitlements are not lost when moving between the two countries and helps to avoid double contributions. However, it is important to note that healthcare is not covered under the agreement, and individuals may need to take out health insurance in Switzerland or rely on the Swiss healthcare system.