Switzerland attracts over 170,000 international professionals each year who are looking for a fresh start. It’s no surprise, as the country not only offers a high quality of life but also excellent career opportunities. However, moving to Switzerland requires careful planning. From gathering documents to dealing with customs formalities and searching for housing – the right tips and a structured moving checklist for Switzerland are crucial for a successful beginning. As an expat, you will face exciting challenges that can be managed well with proper preparation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of your journey into your new life.
Document Preparation: What You Need Before Moving to Switzerland
Thorough document preparation is the key to a successful move to Switzerland. As an expat, you should start gathering all necessary paperwork early on to avoid any unpleasant surprises later.
Here are the most important documents you will need for your move to Switzerland:
- Valid passport (for non-EU/EFTA citizens, it must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned residence permit)
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Employment contract or rental agreement as proof of residence
- Current employment references and educational certificates
- Detailed inventory list of your moving goods for customs (customs list)
💡 Especially important: Especially important: As an EU citizen, you may stay in Switzerland without a visa for up to 90 days. For a longer stay, you must apply for a residence permit within 14 days of your arrival at your local municipal registration office (moving registration in Switzerland).
Many of your documents will require official certification or an apostille to be recognized in Switzerland. Make sure to plan enough time for this and hire a certified translator for the necessary certified translations. This is particularly important for:
- Educational certificates and diplomas
- Civil status documents
- Employment references
Don’t forget these practical preparations:
- Set up mail forwarding
- Compile the documents required to open a bank account
- Prepare for your local registration
- Make a list of contracts to be cancelled in your home country
Finding a Home and Registering Your Move: First Steps After Arrival
Finding a home is one of the most important tasks when moving to Switzerland, especially for expats. With a home ownership rate of only 30%, the Swiss rental market is highly competitive – good preparation is therefore essential.
Required documents for the housing search:
- ID card or passport
- Employment contract or proof of income
- Work permit (or confirmation from your employer)
- Debt collection register extract (can be obtained after arrival)
- References from previous landlords (if available)
For a successful housing search, use these proven online platforms:
Practical tips:
- Respond to listings within 24 hours
- Call instead of sending an email
- Prepare a short personal introduction
- Be flexible when scheduling viewings
After securing an apartment:
- Register with the municipal authorities within 14 days
- Use the digital eUmzug platform if possible
- Apply for your residence permit at the same time
- Allow about 1–2 hours for the registration process
💡 Pro tip: Many municipalities now offer online appointment scheduling. Use this service to avoid waiting times.
Moving to Switzerland: Plan Customs List & Costs Correctly
If you’re moving to Switzerland as an expat, you can generally import your personal household goods duty-free. The main requirement is that you are relocating your residence permanently to Switzerland. Additionally, all items must have been in your personal possession and use for at least 6 months before the move.
Proper preparation is key to smooth customs clearance. It’s best to create a detailed inventory list (customs list) during the planning stage of your move, including all items you intend to import as household goods to Switzerland. This list will later be required by customs to approve your household items.
For customs clearance, you will need the form “Application/Customs Declaration for Household Goods” in duplicate. If you plan to send additional shipments after the main move, these must be listed separately. The customs documents can be submitted either at the time of border crossing or within 12 months of your move.
How much does it cost to move to Switzerland through customs?
If you meet all the requirements, your household goods are generally imported free of charge. However, additional customs costs may arise if you import new or undeclared items.
Special attention should be given to the import of plants. While there are certain relaxations for plants from EU countries, stricter regulations apply for imports from non-EU countries. It is advisable to consult the relevant information sheet in advance.
Health & Health Insurance When Moving to Switzerland A frequently underestimated but important aspect of moving to Switzerland is health insurance and healthcare. Here’s what you need to know:
Before the move:
- Get a comprehensive health check-up
- Obtain an international vaccination certificate
- Secure copies of your key medical records
- Plan any necessary dental visits (not covered by basic insurance in Switzerland)
Health insurance in Switzerland:
- Basic insurance (mandatory): Must be obtained within 3 months after entry
- Monthly cost: approx. CHF 300–400
- Deductible options: CHF 300–2500 (higher deductible = lower premiums)
Supplementary insurance (optional):
- Dental treatment
- Alternative medicine
- Private hospital room
- Other specialized services
Money-saving tips:
- Compare different insurance providers
- Choose a higher deductible for lower premiums
- Check for group insurance offers
- Use early booking discounts (usually available until September for the following year)
Important: Unlike in many countries, your employer does not contribute to your insurance costs. Be sure to include these expenses in your budget.
Expats in Switzerland: Connect and Settle In
The first few weeks after your move to Switzerland are crucial for a successful start in your new home. One of your top priorities should be opening a Swiss bank account. Switzerland has one of the safest and most stable banking systems in the world, and as an expat, you’ll benefit from a wide range of financial services.
When choosing your bank, pay close attention to the fee structure, especially if you make international transfers regularly. Some banks offer special expat accounts tailored to your needs. Ideally, you should initiate the account opening process even before your move to Switzerland.
The high living standards in Switzerland will delight you. Most apartments come with modern kitchens, bathrooms, and often parking spaces. Another great advantage is the excellent public transport system. However, allow plenty of time for the housing search and keep all required documents on hand.
Switzerland offers you a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. Take advantage of the wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and skiing to get to know your new surroundings. These activities not only help you settle in but also allow you to make new connections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Switzerland
1.) Do I need to register my move in Switzerland?
Yes, you must register your move within 14 days of arrival at the municipal registration office of your new place of residence. This also applies to moves within Switzerland.
2.) What belongs on the customs list when moving to Switzerland?
The customs list includes all personal items you wish to import duty-free into Switzerland. This includes furniture, clothing, electronics, books, and also pets or vehicles. The items must have been in your possession for at least six months.
3.) What health insurance do I need after moving to Switzerland?
Everyone living in Switzerland must obtain basic health insurance within three months of entry. Supplementary insurance is optional but recommended for needs like dental care or private hospital stays.
4.) How can I find an apartment as an expat in Switzerland?
The housing search can be challenging. Use platforms like homegate.ch or comparis.ch and respond quickly to listings. Complete documentation, a personal cover letter, and flexibility during viewings are recommended.
5.) How do I open a bank account in Switzerland as an expat?
To open a bank account, you generally need a valid ID, a residence permit, and a Swiss address. Some banks offer special expat account models with attractive international transfer conditions.
6.) What do I need to consider as an EU citizen moving to Switzerland?
As an EU citizen, you can stay in Switzerland for up to 90 days without a visa. After that, you must apply for a residence permit. You also need to obtain health insurance and register with the municipality.
Ihr erfolgreicher Start in der Schweiz: Checkliste & Tipps
Moving to Switzerland marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in life. With the right tips and a structured moving checklist for Switzerland, you can prepare yourself optimally for your future. The most important steps for a successful start:
- Begin document preparation early and plan for certified translations
- Strategically plan your housing search and respond quickly to offers
- Pay attention to customs regulations and costs, carefully prepare your customs list
- Sign up for health insurance within the first three months
- Open a bank account ideally before your move
As an expat, you will come to appreciate the high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and unique culture of Switzerland. Take your time to settle in, connect with other expats, and make the most of everything your new home has to offer. With good preparation and a positive mindset, nothing will stand in the way of your successful start in Switzerland.
