Moving to Switzerland from abroad

Anaïs Frisano, 17 February 2022

Switzerland is a popular immigration country. We explain how to move to the country without stress.

Move to Switzerland - This is how it works!

When it comes to immigrating, Switzerland is a popular destination. But moving to the country requires a lot of planning and organisation. Here we give you an overview of what you should look out for when moving to Switzerland from abroad.

Relocation to Switzerland

There are countless reasons to want to live in Switzerland. It is not least the chocolate or the Swiss cheese that convince many an immigrant. Cities like Zurich, Geneva and Bern are among the places with the highest quality of life in the world. Are you planning to settle here too? But before you can take up permanent residence in Switzerland, certain conditions must be met.

  • You may only import your personal belongings, e.g. books, furniture and clothes into Switzerland duty-free if you can prove that you have changed your place of residence. In addition, you must have used the imported items for at least 6 months and continue to use them after moving to Switzerland.

  • In order to obtain a so-called transfer of residence, you must be able to present your tenancy agreement and employment contract to the authorities. However, you are then allowed to take all your relocation goods duty-free.

  • Without a change of residence, your pets, vehicles and art collections do not count as goods for the purpose of relocation.

  • Before you move, you must enter all your items that you want to bring into Switzerland in an inventory. The inventory list must then be presented at customs.

When moving to Switzerland, you have to plan and organise many formalities as well as other things. For example, you should consider whether to organise your move privately or through a moving company. Removal companies often offer assistance with the transfer of your belongings. In addition, the professionals know which papers you will need for your move.

Other things to think about when you move

A time-consuming and nerve-wracking thing, such a move - isn't it? But no panic, here are a few things to think about when moving house:

  • Tenancy agreement and employment contract: Remember to terminate your tenancy agreement and your employment contract in good time.

  • Insurances: You should also cancel your insurance policies for your flat, car, internet, etc. in due time.

  • Memberships: You should also cancel your membership of clubs, newspapers or magazines in advance.

  • Bank accounts: You should also close your bank accounts and open new accounts in Switzerland.

  • Registration: After your move, it is important that you register at the Residents' Registration Office.

Some stay in Switzerland for a while, some for a little longer and others for good. With a successful move, nothing stands in the way of a good start in Switzerland.