Liechtenstein (LI)
Liechtenstein is a tiny constitutional principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria — one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world — yet it punches far above its 39,000-person weight as one of the wealthiest nations on earth per capita.
Capital: Vaduz
Region: Europe
Language: German
Currency: CHF (Fr)
Cost of living: Very expensive (index 92)
Emergency: 112
Premium
Your Integration Checklist
46 tasks · 18 premium
Mandatory Optional
0 / 0 tasks completed 0%
Personalised for: you
Edit
Sign In to save your progress and personalise your checklist
No tasks in this category
Sign in or set your profile to see personalised tasks for this category.
Time: 15–30 minutes · Cost: Free (some administrative fees possible)
Deadline: Within days of arrival and moving into your accommodation
Risk if missed: Cannot complete AHV registration, bank account opening, or Ausländerausweis. Official correspondence sent to unregistered address creates legal complications.
Where to go: Your specific Gemeinde's office (Gemeindeamt). For Vaduz: Städtle 38. For Schaan: Gemeindeverwaltung Schaan.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid passport
- ✓ Ausländerausweis (or proof that residence application is in progress)
- ✓ Rental contract or written confirmation of accommodation address
- ✓ Employment contract or letter from employer
Tip: The Gemeinde registration is where your Liechtenstein administrative life begins. Bring all your key documents. The Gemeindeamt staff can often answer questions about local services and direct you to the right offices.
Local institution: Gemeindeamt (Municipality Office)
Deadline: Within 14 days of arrival in Liechtenstein
Where to go: Your municipal Gemeindeverwaltung
Local institution: Gemeindeverwaltung (Municipal Administration)
Time: 30–60 minutes appointment; account active 1–2 business days after · Cost: CHF 5–15/month account fee (waived at higher balance thresholds)
Deadline: As soon as you have Gemeinde registration and Ausländerausweis
Risk if missed: Cannot receive salary by bank transfer (the standard in Liechtenstein). Cannot pay rent or bills. Cannot set up TWINT for mobile payments.
Where to go: LLB branch in Vaduz (Städtle 44) or Schaan. VP Bank in Vaduz (Aeulestrasse 6).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid passport
- ✓ Ausländerausweis (residence permit)
- ✓ Gemeinde registration (Anmeldebestätigung)
- ✓ Employment contract or letter confirming employment
- ✓ Betreibungsregisterauszug (debt register extract) — some banks require this
Tip: Use Revolut as a bridging account in the period before your LLB account opens. Set up TWINT (the Swiss/Liechtenstein mobile payment app) immediately once your LLB account is active — equivalent to Denmark's MobilePay. LGT Bank is world-famous but requires high investable assets — not for everyday retail banking.
Local institution: Liechtensteinische Landesbank (LLB) / VP Bank (Liechtenstein National Bank / VP Bank)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–60 minutes for registration appointment · Cost: CHF 60–200 registration fee. Number plates: CHF 30–50. Insurance: CHF 500–2,000/year depending on vehicle.
Deadline: Within 14 days of acquiring the vehicle or establishing residence with the vehicle
Risk if missed: Driving an unregistered vehicle in Liechtenstein is illegal. Insurance may be invalid. Fines apply.
Where to go: MFK — Motorfahrzeugkontrolle, Schaanerstrasse 71, 9490 Vaduz
Documents needed:
- ✓ Vehicle title document (Fahrzeugausweis)
- ✓ Proof of mandatory Haftpflichtversicherung (liability insurance)
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Technical inspection certificate (for imported vehicles)
- ✓ Customs clearance (for non-EEA imports)
Tip: Liechtenstein uses the same vehicle registration system as Switzerland — FL (Fürstentum Liechtenstein) plates. Your Swiss Haftpflichtversicherung (if acquired through a Swiss insurer active in Liechtenstein) covers Liechtenstein territory. Book the MFK appointment in advance.
Local institution: Motorfahrzeugkontrolle (MFK) (Motor Vehicle Inspectorate)
Time: 30 minutes to apply; coverage typically starts within 1 week · Cost: CHF 380–520/month (adult, standard franchise CHF 300). Higher franchise reduces premium.
Deadline: Must be arranged before arrival or within 3 months of establishing residence
Risk if missed: Cannot complete residence permit application without proof of insurance. Fines for being uninsured. All medical costs out-of-pocket. Back premiums charged from day of arrival if you enrol late.
Where to go: Contact Krankenkassen directly (CSS, SWICA, Helsana, CONCORDIA) or compare via comparis.ch. Submit application online or by post.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Liechtenstein address (or pending Gemeinde registration confirmation)
- ✓ Completed Krankenkasse enrollment form
- ✓ Bank account details for premium direct debit
Tip: Compare premiums at comparis.ch or prämienrechner.li before selecting. Consider a higher franchise (CHF 1,500–2,500) if you are healthy and rarely see a doctor — can save CHF 100–150/month vs. standard CHF 300 franchise. Add dental Zusatzversicherung immediately — adult dental care is very expensive otherwise.
Local institution: Krankenkasse / Krankenversicherung (Health Insurance Company)
Time: 30 minutes initial registration; 1–2 hours for first tax return · Cost: Free
Deadline: Register within first month; tax return due 31 March annually
Risk if missed: Failure to file tax return results in default assessment (estimated by tax authority) which may be higher than actual liability, plus potential penalties. Wealth tax on undeclared assets can result in back taxes and interest.
Where to go: Steuerverwaltung, Äulestrasse 51, 9490 Vaduz. Online: steuerverwaltung.llv.li
Documents needed:
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Gemeinde registration
- ✓ Employment contract and payslips
- ✓ Bank account details
Tip: Liechtenstein's income tax is extremely low by European standards (effective rate ~12–20%). File on time — the Steuerverwaltung is small and personal — late filings are noticed. A Treuhänder (fiduciary/tax advisor) is highly recommended for your first tax return given the wealth tax assessment and dual-regime (national + municipal) structure.
Local institution: Steuerverwaltung (Liechtenstein Tax Administration)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 weeks for full enrollment process · Cost: Free (public school)
Risk if missed: Compulsory education obligation — failure to enrol results in official notification from the Gemeinde.
Where to go: Contact your Gemeinde's school administration (Schulamt).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Child's birth certificate
- ✓ Child's passport
- ✓ Vaccination record
- ✓ Previous school reports (if any)
- ✓ Ausländerausweise for parents
Tip: Liechtenstein's small class sizes (15–22 pupils) mean excellent individual attention. DaZ (German language support) classes are available for non-German-speaking children — very effective for rapid German acquisition. The Liechtensteinisches Gymnasium accepts all academically suitable students.
Local institution: Schulamt / Gemeindeverwaltung (School Office / Municipality)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 weeks for full enrolment · Cost: Free (public school)
Risk if missed: School attendance is compulsory by law from age 5. Failure to enrol triggers formal notification from the Gemeinde and legal liability for parents.
Where to go: Your Gemeinde's Schulamt. Contact the local Gemeindeverwaltung for the school registration contact.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Child's birth certificate
- ✓ Child's passport or Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Vaccination record (Impfausweis)
- ✓ Previous school reports (if any)
- ✓ Parents' Ausländerausweise
Tip: Liechtenstein's small class sizes (typically 15–20 pupils) mean excellent individual teacher attention. DaZ classes are widely available and very effective — children typically reach conversational German within 6–12 months. The Liechtensteinisches Gymnasium accepts all academically suitable students.
Local institution: Schulamt / Gemeindeverwaltung (School Office / Municipality)
Where to go: llv.li/xxax/de/landesverwaltung/auslaender-und-passamt
Local institution: Ausländer- und Passamt (Foreign Nationals and Passports Office)
Time: 15 minutes · Cost: Free
Risk if missed: Missing BVG enrollment from day one means permanent gaps in your retirement capital. The compounding effect over years is significant — start immediately.
Where to go: Contact your employer's HR department and request the Pensionskassenausweis (pension fund certificate).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment contract
- ✓ First payslip
- ✓ Pensionskasse enrollment confirmation
Tip: Review the Pensionskasse annual statement (Vorsorgeausweis) carefully. Large employers (Hilti, Ivoclar, LGT) typically offer more generous BVG arrangements than the legal minimum. Consider BVG Einkauf (voluntary top-up contributions) in later years to fill gaps from periods abroad — these are fully tax-deductible.
Local institution: Pensionskasse / Arbeitgeber (Pension Fund / Employer)
Time: 15–20 minutes to verify and confirm GP contract · Cost: CHF 400–600/month Krankenkasse premium (franchise CHF 300 standard)
Risk if missed: Out-of-network GP costs not reimbursed by your Krankenkasse. Higher out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions and referrals.
Where to go: Check contracted doctors list at your Krankenkasse website or via LKV (lkv.li). GP practices in Vaduz and Schaan.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Krankenkasse policy card
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Passport
Tip: Compare Krankenkassen at comparis.ch. Standard franchise CHF 300/year is the default — increasing to CHF 1,500–2,500 lowers your monthly premium but raises per-illness out-of-pocket costs. Always verify your GP is contracted with your Krankenkasse before booking an appointment.
Local institution: Liechtensteinischer Krankenkassenverband (LKV) (Liechtenstein Health Insurance Association)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 4–8 weeks processing (after quota slot allocated); quota waiting list: months to potentially years · Cost: CHF 100–200 application fee
Deadline: Apply well before intended move date — quota waiting lists exist
Risk if missed: Attempting to reside in Liechtenstein without a permit is illegal. Unlike other EEA countries, EEA citizens have NO automatic right of free movement in Liechtenstein. Working without a permit: employer and employee both face penalties. Deportation risk.
Where to go: Ausländer- und Passamt, Städtle 38, FL-9490 Vaduz. Online: eservice.llv.li
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid passport
- ✓ Completed Aufenthaltsgesuch (residence application form)
- ✓ Employment contract from Liechtenstein employer (for work-based applications)
- ✓ Proof of housing in Liechtenstein (or evidence of active search)
- ✓ Proof of mandatory Krankenkasse (health insurance) — must be arranged in advance
- ✓ Clean criminal record certificate (Führungszeugnis / police clearance)
Tip: If your employer has arranged your transfer, the employer may be able to help with the quota application process. Grenzgänger (cross-border worker) permits have a separate — and more available — quota. Consider whether living in Austria or Switzerland and commuting is a practical alternative if full residence quota is not immediately available.
Local institution: Ausländer- und Passamt (Office for Foreign Affairs (Immigration Office))
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks processing · Cost: CHF 50–100
Deadline: Apply before starting work in Liechtenstein
Risk if missed: Working in Liechtenstein without a permit is illegal for both employee and employer. Grenzgänger permits are the most practical route for the majority of Liechtenstein's foreign workforce.
Where to go: Ausländer- und Passamt, Städtle 38, 9490 Vaduz or via eservice.llv.li
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid EEA passport
- ✓ Employment contract with Liechtenstein employer
- ✓ Proof of residence in Austria or Switzerland
- ✓ Completed Grenzgänger application form
Tip: The Grenzgänger permit quota is more available than full residence permits. If you cannot immediately secure full residence in Liechtenstein, living in Feldkirch or Rankweil (Austria) or Buchs (Switzerland) and commuting is highly practical and done by thousands of workers daily.
Local institution: Ausländer- und Passamt (Office for Foreign Affairs (Immigration Office))
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 8–16 weeks (processing depends on quota availability and documentation completeness) · Cost: CHF 200–400
Deadline: Apply long before intended start date — non-EEA quotas are very limited
Risk if missed: Cannot legally work or reside in Liechtenstein without a valid permit. Employer faces significant penalties for employing persons without valid permits.
Where to go: Ausländer- und Passamt, Städtle 38, 9490 Vaduz. Employer typically initiates.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid passport (minimum 6 months remaining validity beyond permit period)
- ✓ Employment contract from Liechtenstein employer
- ✓ Proof of qualifications relevant to the role
- ✓ Employer's declaration that no EEA candidate was available
- ✓ Proof of housing secured or offered
- ✓ Krankenkasse enrollment
Tip: Non-EEA immigration to Liechtenstein is genuinely among the most difficult in the EEA. Your employer's support is critical — companies like Hilti and Ivoclar Vivadent with established HR processes for international hiring have experience navigating this. If declined, note that working in Switzerland or Austria may be easier and Liechtenstein commuting then possible as a Grenzgänger.
Local institution: Ausländer- und Passamt (Office for Foreign Affairs (Immigration Office))
Time: 4–8 weeks processing · Cost: CHF 100–150
Deadline: Apply minimum 2 months before current permit expiry
Risk if missed: An expired permit makes you technically unlawfully resident and unable to work. This creates serious complications for employer, pension continuity, and future settlement permit applications (C Ausweis).
Where to go: Ausländer- und Passamt, Städtle 38, 9490 Vaduz or via eservice.llv.li
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current Ausländerausweis (for renewal)
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Proof of continued employment or qualifying activity
- ✓ Proof of continued Liechtenstein address
- ✓ Krankenkasse renewal confirmation
Tip: Set a calendar reminder 3 months before expiry. Gather all documents in advance. Prolonged absences from Liechtenstein (over 6 months consecutively) may affect renewal eligibility and C permit accumulation.
Local institution: Ausländer- und Passamt (Office for Foreign Affairs (Immigration Office))
Where to go: amicus.admin.ch / your Gemeindeverwaltung / vet
Local institution: Gemeindeverwaltung / AMICUS
Time: 15–30 minutes; number issued within 1–2 weeks · Cost: Free
Risk if missed: Cannot start pension accumulation, receive full payslip, or access social security benefits without AHV number. Employment is not possible without AHV registration.
Where to go: AHV-Anstalt, Heiligkreuz 27, 9490 Vaduz. Online: ahv.li
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Gemeinde registration (Anmeldebestätigung)
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Employment contract (for employer-initiated registration)
Tip: Keep your AHV number permanently — this number follows you for life and across international borders (for EEA totalization purposes). It is the equivalent of Denmark's CPR number for pension and social security purposes.
Local institution: AHV-Anstalt (Social Insurance Office)
Time: 15–20 minutes to apply · Cost: CHF 30–60/month (covers annual dental treatments up to CHF 1,000–2,000)
Deadline: Immediately upon arriving — before any dental issue arises (waiting periods apply)
Risk if missed: An unexpected dental crown or root canal costs CHF 2,000–4,000 out-of-pocket without insurance. Dental problems rarely improve by waiting.
Where to go: Contact your Krankenkasse provider directly (CSS Denta, SWICA Dental, Helsana Dental, CONCORDIA Dental) or compare at comparis.ch.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Krankenkasse card
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Existing health status declaration
Tip: Buy dental insurance before you have any known dental issues — insurers ask about pre-existing dental conditions and may exclude known problems if you apply too late. Start at the same time as your main Krankenkasse.
Local institution: Krankenkasse / Zahnzusatzversicherung (Health Insurer / Dental Supplementary Insurance)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours to open account and set up standing order · Cost: Free to open; fund management fees apply (typically 0.3–1% p.a.)
Deadline: Open before 31 December to deduct current year's contributions
Where to go: Any Liechtenstein bank (LLB, VP Bank, Bendura) or licensed insurance company
Documents needed:
- ✓ Identity document
- ✓ Employment contract or self-employment confirmation
Tip: Max out Säule 3a contributions every year — the tax saving is immediate. You can hold up to 5 Säule 3a accounts and stagger withdrawals to manage the tax on redemption. Choose an investment-linked 3a (Wertschriften-3a) over a savings account 3a — long-term equity returns significantly outperform interest rates. The account is locked until age 60 (at the earliest) or specific life events (home purchase, emigration, self-employment).
Local institution: Liechtensteinische Landesbank (LLB) / VP Bank / Bendura Bank
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30 minutes application; 2–3 weeks processing · Cost: CHF 60–120 for exchange. Driving test if needed: CHF 1,500–3,500.
Deadline: Non-EU licence holders: within 12 months of establishing Liechtenstein residency
Risk if missed: Driving with an expired foreign licence is illegal. Insurance may be void in an accident with an invalid licence.
Where to go: Strassenverkehrsamt, Peter-Kaiser-Platz 1, 9490 Vaduz
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current driving licence
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Eye test certificate (for exchange)
Tip: EU/EEA holders: no action needed. Non-EU holders from exchange countries: bring original licence, Ausländerausweis, and CHF for fees. If taking the Swiss-standard test, a Fahrschule in Vaduz or Schaan can provide intensive preparation.
Local institution: Strassenverkehrsamt (Road Traffic Office)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30 minutes appointment; 1–2 weeks processing · Cost: CHF 70 (exchange fee). Driving test if required: CHF 1,500–3,500.
Deadline: Non-EEA licence holders: within 12 months of establishing Liechtenstein residency
Risk if missed: Driving in Liechtenstein after the 12-month period with an unexchanged non-EEA licence is illegal. Insurance may be void in the event of an accident.
Where to go: MFK — Motorfahrzeugkontrolle, Schaanerstrasse 71, 9490 Vaduz
Documents needed:
- ✓ Original foreign driving licence
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Eye test certificate (Sehtest) from an optician
- ✓ First-aid certificate (Nothelferkurs) — if required
Tip: EU/EEA licence holders: no exchange needed — your licence remains valid until its expiry date. Non-EEA holders from exchange-agreement countries: straightforward process at MFK — book appointment early and bring all documents. A Fahrschule (driving school) in Vaduz or Schaan offers intensive preparation for those who need to sit the Swiss-standard test.
Local institution: Motorfahrzeugkontrolle (MFK) (Motor Vehicle Inspectorate)
Time: 10 minutes · Cost: Free for personal use
Risk if missed: Excluded from splitting costs socially, paying at local markets, and many everyday micro-payment interactions common in Liechtenstein.
Where to go: Download the TWINT app linked to your bank (LLB TWINT app) from the App Store or Google Play.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Swiss or Liechtenstein bank account (LLB)
- ✓ Swiss or Liechtenstein phone number
Tip: Use the TWINT app linked to your specific bank (LLB has its own TWINT integration). TWINT is used in virtually all social bill-splitting situations in Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
Local institution: TWINT (TWINT — Swiss/Liechtenstein Mobile Payment App)
Where to go: swisscom.ch / a1.net / salt.ch
Local institution: A1 / Swisscom / Salt
Where to go: egov.llv.li
Local institution: Amt für Informatik (Office for Informatics)
Where to go: postbus.at / sbb.ch
Local institution: Liechtensteinische Post / LIECHTtours
Time: 15–30 minutes · Cost: Free
Risk if missed: Cannot manage residence permits, tax filings, or government correspondence online. Many processes require the eservice portal.
Where to go: eservice.llv.li — register online; identity verification may require in-person step
Documents needed:
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Email address
- ✓ Gemeinde registration
Tip: Set up the account early — it becomes essential for residence permit renewal, tax submissions, and official correspondence. Liechtenstein's government is small and efficient — eservice.llv.li is well-maintained.
Local institution: eservice.llv.li (Liechtenstein eGovernment Portal)
Time: Application: 1–3 months before semester start · Cost: Universität Liechtenstein: CHF 800/semester. University of St. Gallen: CHF 1,300/semester. ETH Zurich: CHF 730/semester.
Risk if missed: Missing application deadlines (typically 1 April for autumn semester). Swiss universities are competitive — early application is important.
Where to go: Universität Liechtenstein: uni.li (Fürst-Franz-Josef-Strasse, 9490 Vaduz). Swiss universities: unisg.ch (St. Gallen), ethz.ch. Austrian: uibk.ac.at (Innsbruck).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Secondary school leaving certificate (Matura/A-levels or equivalent)
- ✓ German language certificate (B2/C1 for German-taught programmes)
- ✓ Application form
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
Tip: The University of Liechtenstein offers programmes in German and English. For business/finance, HSG St. Gallen (40 minutes by train) is one of Europe's top business schools — extremely valuable for careers in financial services and consulting. ETH Zurich (2 hours by train) is world-ranked for engineering and natural sciences.
Local institution: Universität Liechtenstein (University of Liechtenstein)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30 minutes application; waiting list up to 6–12 months · Cost: CHF 800–3,500/month (before income-related subsidy)
Deadline: Apply as early as possible — waiting lists can be long
Risk if missed: No available Krippe place forces expensive alternatives or delays return to work after parental leave.
Where to go: Apply directly to your municipality's Kinderkrippe. Amt für Soziale Dienste for subsidy application (llv.li).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Child's birth certificate
- ✓ Ausländerausweis (parents)
- ✓ Income declaration (for subsidy application)
- ✓ Vaccination record
Tip: Contact your municipality as soon as possible. Some municipalities have Kinderkrippe-sharing arrangements with neighbouring Swiss communes. Subsidy applications to the Amt für Soziale Dienste can reduce costs significantly for lower-income households.
Local institution: Kinderbetreuung Liechtenstein / Gemeinde (Childcare Liechtenstein / Municipality)
Time: 2–3 months pre-arrival preparation · Cost: CHF 50–200 vet fees; registration fees CHF 50–100/year
Deadline: Complete vaccination 21 days before entry
Risk if missed: Pet refused at border or placed in quarantine at owner's cost.
Where to go: Amt für Veterinärwesen (llv.li/veterinarwesen); local vet for registration
Documents needed:
- ✓ EU Pet Passport or equivalent
- ✓ Microchip certificate
- ✓ Vaccination record
Tip: Annual dog registration (Hundemarke) is mandatory in all 11 Gemeinden. Liability insurance for dogs is required.
Local institution: Amt für Veterinärwesen (Veterinary Authority)
Time: 15–30 minutes to complete the application form · Cost: Free — benefit paid to you
Deadline: Apply as soon as possible after starting employment or when child qualifies
Risk if missed: Missing CHF 340–380/month per child — a significant monthly benefit. Benefits are not automatically backdated if application is delayed.
Where to go: Through your employer (for employed persons) or AHV-Anstalt (Heiligkreuz 27, 9490 Vaduz) for self-employed
Documents needed:
- ✓ Child's birth certificate
- ✓ AHV number
- ✓ Employment confirmation
- ✓ Proof of child's education (for Ausbildungszulage)
Tip: For employed persons: inform your employer's HR of all qualifying children immediately on starting employment. The Familienzulage is paid alongside your salary. For Ausbildungszulage (children 16–25 in education): submit the school/university enrollment certificate annually to maintain the benefit.
Local institution: Familienzulagenkasse / AHV-Anstalt (Family Allowance Fund / Social Insurance Office)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1 hour to review existing pension entitlements · Cost: Free (AHV check). 3rd pillar account: varies by provider.
Where to go: AHV/IV/FAK office: Äulestrasse 70, 9490 Vaduz. For 3rd pillar: bank or insurance provider in Liechtenstein or Switzerland.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employer confirmation of Pensionskasse registration
- ✓ AHV certificate of contributions
- ✓ Proof of Liechtenstein residence or cross-border worker status
Tip: If you leave Liechtenstein before retirement, your 2nd pillar capital must be transferred to a Freizügigkeitseinrichtung (vested benefits institution) — do not let your employer pay it out in cash as it will be taxed. For non-EU/EEA citizens leaving Europe entirely, early withdrawal is possible but subject to withholding tax.
Local institution: LVA — Liechtensteinische AHV-IV-FAK-Anstalten / Private Pension Providers (Liechtenstein Old Age and Survivors' Insurance)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours to open investment account · Cost: Varies by institution; custody fees typically 0.15–0.5% annually
Where to go: VP Bank (vpbank.com), LGT Group (lgt.com), Liechtensteinische Landesbank (llb.li). FMA for regulatory queries: fma-li.li.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Liechtenstein residence permit
- ✓ OIB or personal identification number
- ✓ Bank account in Liechtenstein
- ✓ Annual Steuererklärung (tax declaration)
Tip: Liechtenstein's lack of capital gains tax makes it attractive for long-term investment. However, the Vermögenssteuer (wealth tax) applies annually regardless of gains — factor this into your planning. If you are a US person (citizen or green card holder), Liechtenstein banks may restrict services due to FATCA compliance.
Local institution: FMA — Finanzmarktaufsicht Liechtenstein (Financial Market Authority Liechtenstein)
Time: 30 minutes per year · Cost: Free
Tip: Checklist: (1) Has the Säule 3a maximum contribution changed — are you maximising it? (2) Have BVG coordination deduction amounts shifted — does this affect your insured salary? (3) Have AHV contribution rates changed? (4) Is your employer still contributing the maximum BVG match? The AHV Liechtenstein and Amt für Volkswirtschaft publish annual summaries of changes.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–6 weeks processing · Cost: Free to process; withholding tax applies to cash-outs
Where to go: Contact your pension fund or a Freizügigkeitsstiftung — your employer's HR will advise on the procedure at departure.
Tip: Do not simply let your BVG disappear — unclaimed accounts become harder to trace over time. Cash-outs for EEA residents are not permitted while still resident in an EEA country. Non-EEA citizens get the full Freizügigkeitsleistung cash-out option on permanent departure from Liechtenstein and Switzerland combined.
Local institution: Freizügigkeitsstiftung (Liechtenstein Vested Benefits Foundation)
Time: 15 minutes per request · Cost: Free (once per year per agency)
Where to go: Request from CRIF at crif.com and from ZEK at zek.ch — both offer a free personal data disclosure under GDPR.
Tip: Check both CRIF and ZEK — they hold different data. CRIF covers consumer credit behaviour; ZEK covers bank credit applications and leasing. Negative ZEK entries can remain for 5 years. Dispute errors in writing with supporting documentation.
Local institution: CRIF AG / ZEK (Zentralstelle für Kreditinformation) (Credit Reference Agencies)
Time: 15–30 minutes to register; first appointment within 1–2 weeks · Cost: CHF 0 (after Krankenkasse franchise/copay system)
Risk if missed: Without a Hausarzt, access to specialist referrals (and thus specialist care) is slower. Emergency care always available at Landesspital but routine care needs a GP.
Where to go: Landesspital Vaduz, Heiligkreuz 25, 9490 Vaduz (outpatient dept). Or contact a private practice directly. Find registered doctors at llv.li/themen/gesundheit.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Krankenkasse card
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Passport
Tip: The Landesspital Vaduz Ambulatorium is available for walk-in or phone appointment for general medicine. Due to Liechtenstein's tiny size, GP practices have limited capacity — register early. For dental care: arrange a separate dental appointment immediately and consider dental Zusatzversicherung.
Local institution: Landesspital Vaduz / Hausarztpraxis (Liechtenstein National Hospital / GP Practice)
Where to go: homegate.ch / wohnungen.li
Local institution: Local real estate agents / homegate.ch
Where to go: Your Gemeindeverwaltung
Local institution: Gemeindeverwaltung
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 4–8 weeks processing · Cost: CHF 150–200
Deadline: After 5 continuous years on B permit
Risk if missed: Remaining on annually renewable B permit with associated uncertainty.
Where to go: Ausländer- und Passamt via eservice.llv.li
Documents needed:
- ✓ 5 years of B permit history
- ✓ Employment proof
- ✓ Language certificate
- ✓ Criminal record extract
- ✓ Financial proof
Tip: Document every year carefully — travel absences must not exceed 6 months cumulative per year or they can interrupt the 5-year clock. Engage a Treuhänder to ensure your application is complete.
Local institution: Ausländer- und Passamt (Office for Foreign Affairs)
Time: Course registration: 15 minutes. Course duration: 3–12 months per level. · Cost: CHF 300–800 per course module
Risk if missed: German proficiency is required for the C permit (settlement). Weak German limits employment prospects and social integration. B1 minimum typically required for long-term residence goals.
Where to go: Erwachsenenbildung Liechtenstein (erwachsenenbildung.li), Mühleholz II 5, Schaan. Also: Volkshochschule Vorarlberg (vhs.at) in nearby Feldkirch.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Ausländerausweis
- ✓ Payment method for course fees
Tip: Don't be discouraged by the Alemannic dialect in the first months — locals will speak standard German with you. Invest in learning standard German first; dialect understanding comes naturally through immersion.
Local institution: Erwachsenenbildung Liechtenstein (Adult Education Liechtenstein)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–3 hours · Cost: CHF 500–2,000 with notary
Risk if missed: Liechtenstein intestacy rules apply; complex Stiftung structures may be invalidated without proper planning.
Where to go: Notariat or Treuhandbüro in Vaduz
Documents needed:
- ✓ ID
- ✓ Asset list
- ✓ Beneficiary details
Tip: Liechtenstein foundations (Stiftungen) are some of the world's most useful intergenerational wealth-transfer structures. If you have substantial assets, a Treuhänder consultation on Stiftung structures is worth exploring. EU Regulation 650/2012 allows non-nationals to choose their nationality's inheritance law.
Local institution: Notar / Treuhänder (Notary / Fiduciary)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–3 hours with notary; apostille processing 1–5 business days · Cost: Varies by service: CHF 200–2,000+ depending on document complexity
Risk if missed: Documents not accepted abroad without apostille. Property and legal transactions cannot proceed without notarisation.
Where to go: Notariat or Treuhandbüro in Vaduz. Apostille: Regierungskanzlei, Peter-Kaiser-Platz 1, 9490 Vaduz
Documents needed:
- ✓ Original documents to be certified or apostilled
- ✓ Valid ID
- ✓ Specific instructions for intended use
Tip: Liechtenstein Treuhänder (fiduciaries) are highly experienced in international document requirements — particularly for cross-border wealth structures. If you need documents legalised for use in multiple countries, a Treuhänder can advise on the most efficient route.
Local institution: Notar / Treuhänder (Notary / Fiduciary)
Time: 30 minutes to find and join · Cost: CHF 50–200/year membership fee
Risk if missed: Social isolation in a small community. Verein membership is noted positively in citizenship and settlement permit assessments as evidence of integration.
Where to go: Your local municipality centre or sports facilities. Ask neighbours or colleagues for club recommendations. Find clubs via your Gemeindeamt.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Contact the Verein of your choice directly — no formal documents typically required for membership
Tip: The Freiwillige Feuerwehr (volunteer fire brigade) of your municipality actively welcomes new members and provides excellent community integration. FC Vaduz events and local sports clubs are also open to all residents.
Local institution: Verein / Gemeindeamt (Association / Municipality Office)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours initial review; annual Steuererklärung 1–3 hours · Cost: Free (self-service). Tax advisor: CHF 200–400/hour.
Where to go: Steuerverwaltung, Gerberweg 5, 9490 Vaduz. Online: llv.li/steuern. Tax advisor for complex cross-border situations.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current Liechtenstein tax registration number
- ✓ Foreign pension statements
- ✓ Home country tax residency certificate (where applicable)
Tip: Liechtenstein's income tax is significantly lower than most European countries — beneficial for retirees. However, the Vermögenssteuer (wealth tax) applies to worldwide assets. Check whether your home country's DTT with Liechtenstein covers pension income. The LI-CH (Liechtenstein-Switzerland) DTT is particularly important for cross-border workers and retirees.
Local institution: Steuerverwaltung des Fürstentums Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein Tax Administration)
Time: 5 minutes to purchase a pass · Cost: Single trip: CHF 3–5. Day pass: CHF 10. Monthly pass: CHF 75–100. Swiss GA also valid.
Risk if missed: Higher per-trip costs without a pass. Parking in Vaduz is limited and expensive — bus is often the more practical option.
Where to go: Buy on the bus, at ticket machines in Vaduz, or online at liemobil.li
Documents needed:
- ✓ None for day pass (purchase on bus or at ticket machine)
- ✓ AHV number for monthly/annual pass
Tip: If you commute to Switzerland frequently, the Swiss Half-Fare card (CHF 185/year) works on LIECHTENSTEINmobil and reduces all Swiss rail and bus fares by 50%. The Swiss GA (CHF 3,860/year) covers unlimited travel across Switzerland and Liechtenstein and is excellent value for heavy commuters.
Local institution: LIECHTENSTEINmobil (Liechtenstein Public Transport)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Where to go: llv.li/soziale-dienste
Local institution: Amt für Soziale Dienste