SRK PreCheck: from check to recognition, how to tackle it smartly
Practical guide to the recognition process.
Want to work in Switzerland as a physiotherapist? You’ll quickly come across the SRK PreCheck, of the Swiss Red Cross (SRK). Good news: with a smart step-by-step plan, this isn’t red tape, it’s the kickstart to your journey. Below we explain what the PreCheck is (and isn’t), when to do it, which documents to prepare and how we help.
What is the SRK PreCheck (and what is it not)?
Yes: a preliminary review to see whether your diploma is, in principle, eligible for recognition in Switzerland.
No: the final recognition itself. The official assessment of your full file happens after the PreCheck.
Think of the PreCheck as a gatekeeper: once you pass it, you can invest time in the rest of the process.
Who is the PreCheck for?
- Graduated physiotherapists who obtained their diploma outside Switzerland.
- Even if you already have work experience or a specialisation, SRK first wants to know how your education compares to the Swiss standard.
When should you start the PreCheck?
As early as possible. Ideally before you’re exploring vacancies. This way you:
- know quickly whether you’re on the right track;
- can request documents (such as a CCPS) in time;
- can align your language plan (towards B1/B2) alongside it.
What do you need? (short checklist)
- Diploma and transcripts
- Module/course overview with hours (theory, clinical practice, internships)
- Proof of work experience (if applicable)
- CCPS (certificate of current professional status)
- ID document
- Translations where required (official/sworn)
PhysioMatch tip: start immediately with the CCPS. It’s often the biggest bottleneck, the sooner it’s arranged, the faster you can move.
What happens after a positive PreCheck?
- You submit the full recognition file.
- SRK assesses the content, duration and internships of your education.
- Sometimes a compensatory measure follows (e.g., additional placement or assessment). That sounds daunting, but we’ll help you find an employer who can support you through it.
Language & PreCheck: what’s smart?
You can start the PreCheck while you’re still working on German. For final recognition, B2 is often required in the language of your work region.
Our approach: plan your language track in parallel with recognition so you don’t lose months.
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Waiting to do the PreCheck until after applying → start early so you know where you stand.
- No complete hour/credit overview → request this from your school.
- Only working on language → combine language + recognition to save time.
- No plan for compensatory measures → choose an employer that offers guidance; we match you accordingly.
How does PhysioMatch help?
In short: we make it clear and achievable.
- File coaching: we review your documents and think along on content and translations.
- Smart planning: PreCheck, recognition and language in one realistic timeline.
- Targeted match: we connect you with practices/clinics experienced in supporting the recognition process.
- Good landing: help with applications, interviews, permits, housing and your first weeks.
- Free for you: our service is paid by the employer.
Your route in 6 steps
- Intake with PhysioMatch: info, profile, preferred region, timing.
- Submit PreCheck: we help you complete the pack.
- Start language: targeted path to B1/B2 (medical context).
- Job match & interviews: with teams that fit your profile.
- Full recognition: file sent in; plan any measures.
- Start in Switzerland: contract, onboarding and the practicalities sorted.
Ready for step 1?
Book a free intake and get your personal roadmap (PreCheck → recognition → language → job). We’ll walk the path together, step by step.