Impressive scenery, good career prospects and an excellent standard of living, have long made Switzerland an attractive destination for immigrants. However, when moving to Switzerland, there are many important factors to consider.
After entering Switzerland, you have a maximum of fourteen days to register at a local resident services office. When planning to remain in the country for longer than three months, you need to apply for a residence permit from the authorities in your local canton. If you are bringing a pet with you, it must have an up to date pet passport.
Switzerland raises revenue through direct and indirect taxes. There is a tiered system where you pay several taxes to the national Confederation, regional cantons and communes. There are even local taxes to be paid if you own a dog. Income tax is a complex issue in every country, but when moving to Switzerland, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional tax expert for advice and assistance to help you avoid making expensive errors.
The country's healthcare system is controlled, but not funded, by the local cantons, therefore, everyone must have health insurance including children and newborn babies. Residents generally enrol in a basic healthcare scheme before purchasing additional policies that offer a diverse range of benefits. It is a very competitive industry, so for a newcomer, it can be helpful to have expert advice on choosing a health insurance policy.
Your driving license must be changed to a Swiss version from your local canton office within twelve months of taking up residency. Your car has to be declared at the customs office when entering the country if you intend using it beyond one year after arrival. Car insurance covering third party liability must be purchased. You will also need an additional policy to provide cover for any damage that may occur to your own car. There are so many policies to choose from, you could find the process much simpler if you ask us for guidance on which car insurance policies are best.
Only Swiss citizens can vote in federal elections, but as a registered resident, you may be eligible to participate in some regional ballots. You can find out from your local canton or commune.
Are you planning to move to Switzerland and need professional support? We would be happy to assist you. Contact us for a personal consultation.
Switzerland is one of the most beautiful and interesting countries in the world. Therefore, a lot of expats move to Switzerland with their families. We have listed the ten most popular swiss cities and given you a short review of them.
Switzerland is a great destination for expats, but every nation has its ups and downs. If you’re new to the country, or if you’re just in the process of planning your move, you should know what to expect. We’ve got the greatest advantages & disadvantages (plus how to deal with them!) about life in Switzerland laid out for you.
If you are planning to immigrate to Switzerland, you should already in advance plan where to stay.
The corona situation in Switzerland is still critical. If you still don't want to miss out on some fun and sport, you'll get your money's worth when visiting ski resorts.
Switzerland is very famous for its many laws and obligations. Here are some of the most bizarre ones.
Switzerland has the longest, densest, most varied and best waymarked network of hiking trails. In so many ways a record breaker. In total in Switzerland there are 65’000 kilometers of waymarked trails at all levels of difficulties. We have gathered the most important information for hiking in Switzerland.
We have summed up for you the ten most beautiful and interesting sights in Switzerland.
Conditions, qualities and expectations vary from country to country. Therefore, it is important that you are aware and know how the dating scene works in Switzerland and what Swiss men and women value and love.
Are you moving to Switzerland with children? Then it is important for you to know how the education system works in Switzerland. Switzerland offers your children many opportunities and a high-quality education.
The range of childcare options in Switzerland is very diverse and wide-ranging. Find out in this article which childcare options are available for your children and which one best suits your needs.
Good career opportunities, numerous further qualification possibilities and an attractive salary. These are the things that define the Swiss labour market. The world of work is stable and the unemployment rate has been low for many years, which is one of the many reasons why the Swiss labour market is one of the best in the world.
You already know that Switzerland offers very good educational opportunities and great career prospects. But did you know that the study opportunities are also just as diverse?
As you already know from our article on "How to find love in Switzerland", making new contacts in Switzerland is not that easy. But that doesn't mean it's impossible - you just have to know how. Read on to find out more!
From amusing, charming to brutal traditions - Switzerland has a variety of traditions and customs to offer. Around 200 different ones are still practiced today. We are pleased to introduce you to four of the best known living Swiss traditions.
It's no secret that the Swiss work a lot - but what do they actually do on their days off or after work? Find out in this article which are the most popular Swiss hobbies.
Everyday life for newcomers can be challenging and often you don't know where to get the right support. In this article, we have compiled the most important apps that will simplify your life in Switzerland.
Switzerland has a wide range of leisure activities to offer. This also includes museums. Whether culture, science or art - visitors are fascinated by what Switzerland has to offer. In this article, we have selected the 10 most exciting museums for you from over 1130.
In all parts of the world, Easter is a good reason to share hope, confidence and joy with loved ones and create unforgettable moments together. But every country has different customs and traditions and so does Switzerland. In this article we will acquaint you with the most common and popular Swiss traditions during Easter time!
The Sechseläuten, also known as Sächsilüüte, is a spring festival in Zurich that has been held every spring in the center of Sechseläutenplatz since 1902. On April 25, the Sechseläuten took place. In this article you will learn the exciting story behind the spring festival.
Springtime - The favorite season for many people. And rightfully so. The weather is cooperating, the list of activities is endless and the anticipation for summer is huge. Want to be as active as possible this spring but don't know where to start? We have put together a list of the best activities for you to make your choice easier!
Sustainability is a topic that is becoming increasingly important and more and more people are addressing it. Whether it's reducing plastic consumption or separating garbage, everyone can make a contribution to more sustainability in their everyday lives. In this article, you will find out how you can make your everyday life more environmentally friendly.
The Sechseläuten is a centuries-old tradition at the beginning of spring in Zurich. It always takes place on the third Monday in April. Besides historically costumed guild members, bands, horses, flowers, flags and the "Böögg" characterize the festival. Nowadays, the Böögg is even the main figure and symbolizes winter. He is burned on a pyre just in time for the six o'clock chimes of the Grossmünster church. And the faster his head, filled with fireworks, explodes, the more beautiful summer will be. At least that's what they say in Zurich.
Living as an expat in Switzerland is an exciting journey full of new discoveries and experiences, but it also comes with numerous laws and regulations to adhere to. Switzerland takes fines seriously – violations of the many local regulations are quickly punished with fines. Here's how you can avoid unpleasant surprises and integrate smoothly.
The Street Parade is back in Zurich! If you’re new in Switzerland, you don’t want to miss this legendary occasion on Saturday, the 10th of August 2024. Here’s everything you need to know about the world’s largest techno-party (including our own special recommendation for the after-party)!
Switzerland is an expensive country, and it has not escaped the cost-of-living crisis unscathed. While the current economic situation for the average Swiss worker is still relatively stable, many people find themselves having to ‘tighten the belt’. Projections for the lower-to middle class are bleak, and newcomers to Switzerland are especially at risk.
James N., originally from the UK, has lived in Switzerland for the last 30 years. His professional career has led him to work in radio and in banking. In 2023, James was encouraged to apply for Swiss citizenship through the simplified naturalization process, as he was married to a Swiss national and had lived in the country long enough.
