Living in Geneva: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Geneva.
Global cosmopolitan area, Geneva is Switzerland's biggest financial hub. The city hosts many international organizations, as well as multinational companies, which make it a top destination for expatriation.
Geneva's dynamic economy, which is mainly driven by services and finance, is very promising for expatriates in terms of career prospects. By moving there, you will enjoy quality living, but with a cost.
Generalities
Get an overview of living in Geneva with general information to discover the destination.
Discovering Geneva
Geneva is a city rich in history, culture, and business opportunities. Located on the stunning ...
Adjusting to the local culture in Geneva
Many visitors view Geneva as a city with international influence that has still managed to maintain ...
Developing your social circle in Geneva
Having recently arrived in Geneva, you might initially feel a bit isolated. Although the city is ...
Work
Dive into the Geneva labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Geneva.
Working in Geneva
The job market in Geneva is diverse, encompassing fields such as finance, pharmaceuticals, and the ...
The labor market in Geneva
According to various economic studies reported by Swissinfo, Switzerland is expected to face a ...
Jobs in Geneva
Discover professional opportunities in Geneva and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Geneva. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Accommodation in Geneva
If you're considering moving to Geneva, finding accommodation will likely be a significant ...
Buying property in Geneva
While Switzerland is known for its high real estate prices, it can still be a worthwhile ...
Find your ideal home in Geneva
Explore real estate listings in Geneva to buy or rent your next home.
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Geneva.
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Geneva.
Getting around Geneva
Geneva has a well-developed public transportation system, and the city's many bike paths make cycling a popular option. Here's an overview of ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Geneva.
Things to do in Geneva on weekdays and weekends
With its 200,000 residents, Geneva offers plenty to do both during the week and on weekends. Its ...
Things to do in Geneva alone, with your partner or with friends
Even though Geneva has a reputation for being a quiet city, there are lots of fun things to do ...
Indoor and outdoor activities in Geneva
Genevans are typically very active and enjoy life in a city surrounded by nature. Here are a few ...
Articles from the magazine
Sarah in Geneva: "There is a high concentration of expats"
Australian expat, Sarah settled in Geneva with her husband 3 years ago to develop their careers. They are enjoying their life in Switzerland...
Denhi in Gruyeres: "People here are very conservative"
Denhi was born in Mexico. Following her marriage, she moved to Germany where she spent several years. Nowadays, she is living in Gruyeres where she works in the hotel sector. Denhi also enjoys going out and seeing her friends.
Philippe Michecoppin: "A good offer includes a package that supports the candidate during the move"
Philippe Michecoppin comes from France but is a globetrotter at heart. After having lived in Spain, Italy and Greece, he settled in Switzerland in 2005. Philippe has been with the Adecco Group for the past 21 years. In 2011, he took the lead of the Candidate International Mobility programme. Since then, his mission has been to restructure and enhance the international recruitment services offered by the Adecco Group to its clients, candidates and associates.
Queso Suizo
My name is Amanda, but everyone in my family (except my husband) and many friends call me Mandy. I don't think I'll ever outgrow that nickname. I am from paradise, otherwise known as San Diego, California, U.S.A.
Kate in Zurich: "The quality of life here is so wonderful and the pace of life is quiet and slow"
Kate comes from Washington. She fell in love with Switzerland 10 years ago during a train ride. Following a two years stay in London, she finally moved to Zurich in 2014 with her husband and two daughters. In this Interview, she shares her views about life in Switzerland.
First came love, then came Switzerland
When Ashleigh met her lovely Swiss man, she didn't know what the future holds — a marriage, settlement in a new country, and a rewarding work life. Ashleigh and her husband are now living in Geneva, and as a first-time expat, she had a lot on her plate at the beginning. But almost two years after, the culture shock and feelings of loneliness have lightened, and Ashleigh enjoys the charms of Switzerland, plans a family, and can't be happier with her online projects.
Switzerland: An Italian expat's views on the German-speaking labour market
Sara is a pharmacist specialising in medical cannabis, who comes from Abruzzo. She has been living in Thurgau, Switzerland, for nearly two years now, where she works in an elderly care home. She talks to us about how hard it is to find a job in this part of the country as a non-German-speaking expat, and about the importance of learning the language before relocating.
Why is Switzerland the best country for expats?
Switzerland is not just banks and chocolate. The country also offers excellent quality of life and a plethora of other benefits for expatriates. So much so, that expats have chosen Switzerland as their favorite country in the HSBC Expat Explorer 2019. Here is what makes Switzerland a country of choice for expatriates...
