Living in Switzerland: the ultimate expat guide

For EU, EEA, and EFTA citizens, free movement across Europe includes the right to residency in Switzerland. However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you must register and secure a residency permit. For short stays up to three months, you can enter to look for work without prior authorization. The actual residence permit is typically issued upon proving a job contract and registering with the local communal authority. For all other non-EU/EFTA citizens, the general visa requirements for Switzerland are highly restrictive, involving annual quotas and a strict labor market test. You must secure prior approval and a job offer from a Swiss employer, who must demonstrate that no suitable Swiss or EU candidate could be found.

Tips:

1. You must register with the local commune within 14 days of arrival, regardless of nationality or permit status.
2. Be prepared to provide financial evidence, either in the form of a bank statement or a declaration of financial support.
3. Gather necessary documents, which will include proof of your job contract or sufficient funds, depending on your status.
4. Note that non-EU permits are typically reserved for highly qualified specialists, managers and senior staff.
5. Your documents, if not in German, French, or Italian, must be accompanied by certified translations into the local language of the commune for your application.
6. Be patient: The application process is decentralized. Allow several months for work permit applications, especially for non-EU/EFTA permits, as they must pass through cantonal, then federal, review.

Source:

Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)

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With industry-leading companies, low unemployment and a stable economy, the Swiss labor market is highly attractive. Salaries are among the highest in Europe, but so is the cost of living, so it pays to research carefully before making the move.

To work in Switzerland, you will generally need a Swiss-style CV, which is concise, skills-focused, and sometimes includes a professional headshot. Non-EU/EFTA nationals typically require a work permit, which is granted only if no suitable Swiss or EU candidate is available. Permits are usually tied to a specific job offer and must be sponsored by an employer.

In-demand jobs

Some of the most sought-after roles in Switzerland include IT professionals (software engineers, cybersecurity experts), healthcare workers (doctors, nurses, caregivers), finance specialists (accountants, analysts, auditors), and engineers in biotech, mechanical, and civil fields. Skilled workers in hospitality and tourism are also valued, particularly in alpine regions.

Tips:

1. Temporary or short-term contracts can help you get local experience and build your reputation.
2. Networking is key: many roles are filled through personal connections, so consider joining local professional groups or expat associations.
3. Recruitment agencies specializing in finance, pharma, or IT can be a strong gateway into the market.

Facts & figures

Date correct as of October 2025

Sources: Trading Economics, Trading Economics - youth unemployment, Swiss Federal Statistical Office (FSO)

Useful link:

Work.swiss - federal employment portal

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Known for academic excellence, innovation, and a truly international environment, Switzerland is a top choice for students seeking quality education in the heart of Europe. With world-class universities, multilingual programs, and a strong research culture, it offers an ideal setting for both academic and personal growth.

Why study in Switzerland?

Universities in Switzerland consistently rank among the best worldwide, with institutions such as ETH Zurich and the University of Geneva recognized for research and teaching. Many programs are offered in English, particularly at the postgraduate level. Tuition fees are relatively affordable compared to other European destinations, typically ranging from CHF 1,000 to CHF 4,000 per year at public universities. Private institutions, however, can be considerably more expensive.

Tips:

1. If your studies exceed three months, you will need a student visa. Admission from a recognized Swiss institution is required before applying.
2. You must provide proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay, along with valid health insurance coverage.
3. Housing in university cities can be competitive, so arrange accommodation early, either through student residences or private rentals.
4. Learn some local language basics. Even if your program is in English, everyday life in Switzerland often requires some French, German, or Italian, depending on the region.
5. Take advantage of student discounts. Public transport passes, cultural events, and even ski resorts often offer reduced rates for students, which can make a big difference given Switzerland's high cost of living.

The banking and finance sectors in Switzerland are renowned for their stability and high-quality services. While the era of strict banking secrecy has shifted toward greater transparency under international tax agreements, Swiss banks remain trusted institutions for residents and businesses alike.

To open a bank account in Switzerland, you’ll typically need a valid passport or ID card, proof of residence (residence permit or registration confirmation from your commune), and proof of employment or income (for salary accounts). Major retail banks include UBS (which now incorporates Credit Suisse), Raiffeisen, and the Cantonal Banks (such as Zürcher Kantonalbank), which often have extensive branch networks. Digital options like Neon, Zak, or Yuh are increasingly popular.

Tips:

1. Compare account fees and included services carefully—they vary widely.
2. Choose based on your needs: cantonal banks are strong locally, while UBS offers international coverage.
3. For convenience and lower costs, consider a mobile-first digital bank with quick online setup.

Source:

Swiss Banking

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Switzerland operates a system of universal, mandatory health insurance (KVG/LAMal) provided by private insurers. Every resident must have basic insurance to access the Swiss healthcare system. These basic policies are regulated by law and must be offered on a non-profit basis, although insurers may profit from optional supplementary plans.

What you need to know

In case of a medical emergency, dial 144.

All new residents must purchase a basic health insurance policy from an authorized Swiss insurer within three months of registering their residence.

Coverage is retroactive to the date of arrival in Switzerland. If you register in month three, you must pay premiums for all three months.

Premiums are individual (not family-based). They vary by age, canton of residence, and chosen insurer, but are not based on income or prior health status for the basic plan.

Sources:

Federal Office of Public Health (BAG/FOPH)

Comparis.ch - independent online comparison site

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Relocating to Switzerland with children means navigating an excellent yet complex education system. It's highly decentralized, with each of the 26 cantons setting its own curriculum, calendar, and language of instruction. This decentralization means that a family moving just a few kilometers across a cantonal border may find themselves navigating a different system, a different language, and a different school calendar.

Types of schools

Public schools (écoles publiques): Free of charge, funded by taxes. Instruction is in the local language (German, French, or Italian). School days are often non-continuous, with children returning home for lunch.

Bilingual Schools (écoles bilingues): Teach the Swiss curriculum in two languages (typically the local language and English). These can offer a smooth transition, but fees are high, often exceeding CHF 20,000 annually.

Private/international schools (écoles privées/internationales): Charge substantial tuition fees. Offer full-day schedules and internationally recognized curricula (IB, A-Levels, etc.).

School holidays

The scheduling of school holidays is set individually by each of the 26 cantons, which means dates vary significantly across Switzerland. However, most cantons have approximately 13 weeks of holidays annually, generally divided into:

Autumn holidays: Usually two weeks in late September or October.

Christmas holidays: About two weeks, covering Christmas and New Year.

February/sport break: Typically one week in February, often coinciding with local carnival or ski season.

Spring/easter holidays: Usually one to two weeks, often around Easter.

Summer holidays: The longest break, usually five to seven weeks, beginning between late June and mid-July.

Tips:

1. Public school days are often short and have a long midday break. Secure spots in after-school care (tagesstruktur/parascolaire) early, as they are separate entities and demand is high.
2. Connect with other parents through local clubs and associations (vereine). This is a great way to understand community norms and arrange playdates, bridging the gap between school and community life.

From sleek Zurich apartments to traditional chalets in the Alps, accommodation in Switzerland caters to a variety of tastes and budgets. Renting is the most common option for both Swiss nationals and newcomers, as the real estate market is highly regulated and property prices are generally high. A standard lease is often for an indefinite period with a statutory minimum notice of three months, though a longer notice period or fixed lease can be agreed upon. You will be required to provide a security deposit, typically equivalent to three months' rent, which must be held in a dedicated, blocked savings account.

Buying property for foreigners is strictly controlled by the federal Lex Koller law, which aims to limit foreign ownership of residential property. Non-resident foreigners generally require special permits and are restricted to purchasing holiday homes in designated tourist areas. EU/EFTA nationals with a residence permit (B or C) can typically purchase a primary residence with the same rights as Swiss citizens. Non-EU/EFTA nationals with a B permit can also buy a primary residence, but they must live in it and are restricted from renting it out. C Permit (permanent residence) holders have the same property rights as Swiss citizens, regardless of nationality.

Tips:

1. When renting, assemble a comprehensive application with documents like your residence permit, employment contract, and debt collection register extract (required in many cantons).
2. Budget for all costs. Rents are commonly advertised as "cold rent" (kaltmiete). Factor in nebenkosten (ancillary costs/utilities), which are paid separately and are estimated upfront.
3. Start early. The rental market is competitive. You may need to attend group viewings and apply immediately to secure a desirable property.
4. Buying costs vary significantly. When purchasing, budget for additional expenses, which typically range from 2.5% to 5% of the purchase price, but this varies widely by canton. These costs include transfer tax and notary/registry fees.

Useful links:

Homegate - Swiss real estate marketplace

ASLOCA - Swiss Association of Tenants

Switzerland, with its high quality of life and stunning landscapes, is a dream destination for many expats. A successful move relies on meticulous preparation to navigate the unique administrative requirements of the Swiss cantons. Here are a few tips to help ensure your relocation to Switzerland is a smooth one.

1. Secure residency first: Non-EU/EFTA citizens must finalize their long-term D-visa and residence permit (up to six months processing) before moving, as this is required to legally reside and work in Switzerland.
2. Sort out your finances early: Start the process to secure your Swiss bank account early. A common hurdle is needing an address for a bank account and a bank account for a lease.
3. Begin the house hunt immediately: The rental market is highly competitive. Prepare your application documents, including your work contract and the debt collection register extract (obtainable after arrival).
4. Prepare customs documentation: For duty-free import of household goods, complete and sign Customs Form 18.44. Items must have been owned for at least six months.
5. Hire expert movers: Choose an international moving company with proven expertise in Swiss customs, as clearance must be done at a commercial office.
6. Obtain Swiss compulsory basic health insurance within three months of moving. Failure to do so will result in you being automatically assigned an insurer by the canton.

Source:

The International Federation of Moving Companies (FIDI) Global Alliance

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For the Swiss, free time is synonymous with the outdoors. The nation treats its spectacular Alps, crystalline lakes, and clean rivers as a massive, accessible playground throughout the year. The country’s famously efficient infrastructure makes it easy to get out and enjoy it all.

The Alps and hiking: Hiking (wandern/randonnée) is the national pastime. The country is crisscrossed by meticulously maintained, color-coded hiking trails, ranging from easy valley walks to high-altitude mountain passes.

Lakes and rivers: In summer, swimming in the pristine lakes (Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne) and rivers (like the Aare in Bern) is popular.

Winter sports: Skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing are hugely popular, with world-famous resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz.

Public transport (SBB): The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) network is a convenient and easy way to get around. The half-fare card (Halbtax) is a good investment that gives 50% off most train, bus, and boat tickets.

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Swiss culture prioritizes respect for privacy, order, and collective harmony, values that are clearly seen in a strong adherence to rules and punctuality.

Politeness and formality

Greetings: A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard in both social and business settings. In French-speaking regions, close acquaintances may exchange three air kisses (right, left, right).

Formal address: Always use the formal address (surname and title) until explicitly invited to use the first name.

Punctuality: Punctuality is viewed as a sign of respect. Being late, even socially, is frowned upon without prior notification.

Rules and Neighbors

Silence (ruhezeiten): Respect for neighbors is paramount. Strict "quiet hours" are enforced, particularly between 10 PM and 7 AM on weekdays, and often throughout the entire day on Sundays. This includes avoiding loud activities like using lawnmowers, vacuuming, or running washing machines.

Recycling: Switzerland has one of the world's highest recycling rates. Residents are expected to separate waste, and waste disposal is often based on the polluter pays principle (special taxed bags, Zürichsäcke, must be used for general waste). Littering is severely penalized.

Safety: The country is extremely safe, and while carrying official identification (passport or residence permit) is legally required, locals are seldom checked.

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Switzerland is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive countries globally, with cities like Zurich and Geneva often topping lists for the highest cost of living. While salaries are also among the world's highest, the cost of housing, groceries, and especially mandatory health insurance is significant. Costs can vary substantially between major cities and smaller, more rural cantons.

Here is a general breakdown of average monthly expenses for different household types, including rent.

Monthly expenses

Data accurate as of October 2025

Sources: Livingcost.org, Wise, Packimpex