The transfer covers the account
Switching providers does not let you divide existing pillar 3a savings into multiple new accounts. For a transfer to another recognised form of tied provision, the Federal Tax Administration explains that the relevant account or policy must close in full. The money remains within tied provision. This is different from a payout to your current account or a new annual contribution.
An example with two destinations
Imagine a CHF 54,000 bank-based 3a account and two possible new providers. Moving CHF 27,000 to each to obtain two withdrawal dates does not fit the transfer rule. You can compare moving the whole account to one provider against keeping it and opening a different account for eligible new contributions. New contributions still share a single personal ceiling even if split among institutions.
Keep exceptions separate
A housing transaction or an occupational pension buy-in serves another purpose and has its own conditions. It does not create a general right to split a transfer between 3a institutions. If your objective is to spread future payouts, ask how each account and date would be treated. Check the timing and tax rules that will apply to the withdrawals instead of assuming that spreading them guarantees an advantage.
Before giving instructions
Ask for the fees, transfer value, expected timing and treatment of investments while the money moves. With a policy, separate the transferable amount from guarantees that end and risk protection you might need to replace. Arrange a direct transfer between institutions and keep their confirmations. Compare the switching cost with leaving the old account in place, then decide where future contributions fit your needs and time horizon.
Compare the position after the move
If the old 3a holds investments, ask whether the transfer happens in cash or whether some securities can move with it. With a sale, the value can change before execution and you may spend time out of the market. You might also need to rebuild a portfolio that fits your payout plans. On arrival, reconcile the amount sent, amount received and fees separately. If you keep two accounts funded by new contributions, maintain a single record of that year's deposits.