Switzerland (CH)
Switzerland is a landlocked federal republic of 26 cantons at the heart of Europe, bordered by Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein.
Capital: Bern
Region: Europe
Language: German
Currency: CHF (CHF)
Cost of living: Very expensive (index 122)
Emergency: 112
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Time: 3 days birth registration + 2 weeks subsequent follow-up · Cost: Birth certificate CHF 50 (Geburtsurkunde / acte de naissance)
Deadline: 3 days (Zivilstandsamt) + 3 months (KVG)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Parents' passports
- ✓ Marriage certificate (parents)
- ✓ Birth notification (Geburtsmitteilung) from hospital
- ✓ Residence permits
Tip: Hospital registers the birth automatically — you receive Geburtsmitteilung to take to Zivilstandsamt. Swiss nationality only if parent is Swiss (jus sanguinis — no automatic jus soli). Foreign parents: register with home-country embassy too. Apostilled birth certificate useful for future international uses.
Local institution: Zivilstandsamt / Office de l'état civil
Time: 10 minutes online at AMICUS + commune registration · Cost: AMICUS one-off CHF 30–40. Commune Hundesteuer CHF 100–450/year. Hundehaftpflicht CHF 80–200/year.
Deadline: 10 days from arrival for AMICUS registration
Risk if missed: Fine CHF 100–300. Dog without AMICUS cannot travel on Swiss trains with a dog ticket.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Dog's microchip number
- ✓ EU pet passport (or Swiss equivalent)
- ✓ Rabies vaccination proof
- ✓ Dog owner ID
- ✓ Hundehaftpflicht insurance certificate
Tip: Vet typically registers your dog with AMICUS at first Swiss vet visit. Commune Hundesteuer must be paid separately each year — billed automatically after registration. Check cantonal breed restrictions: Geneva, Zurich, Valais have specific "dangerous breed" permits.
Local institution: AMICUS (federal dog database) + your commune
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1 hour appointment + 2–4 weeks to receive physical permit card by post. · Cost: CHF 95–160 (non-EU); CHF 65 EU/EFTA renewal. Biometric permit card CHF 40.
Deadline: Within 14 days of arrival (alongside Anmeldung)
Risk if missed: Illegal residence — fine, employment ban, potential removal. Cannot renew if expired without explanation.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
- ✓ Employment contract (employed applicants)
- ✓ Study confirmation + financial proof (students)
- ✓ Family-reunion evidence (spouse/family)
- ✓ Passport photos
- ✓ Biometrics appointment fee
Tip: Non-EU arrivals: entry to Switzerland must happen within 90 days of your visa issue. Register at commune first, then attend the biometrics appointment at the cantonal Migrationsamt — you cannot be issued a permit without Anmeldung. Keep your permit card safely — replacement costs CHF 75.
Local institution: Migrationsamt / Office de la migration / Ufficio della migrazione (Cantonal Migration Office)
Time: 30–60 minutes at the commune counter. Appointment sometimes required (book online). Smaller communes often walk-in. · Cost: CHF 20–70 registration fee (varies by commune + nationality). Non-EU: additional permit issuance fee CHF 100–160.
Deadline: Within 14 days of arriving / moving in
Risk if missed: Fine up to CHF 500. Permit application delayed or refused. Cannot complete most other registrations (health insurance, bank, tax).
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport or national ID card
- ✓ Residence permit assurance letter (Einreisebewilligung / autorisation de séjour) from Swiss embassy (non-EU/EFTA) or visa
- ✓ Rental contract (Mietvertrag / bail) or landlord accommodation confirmation
- ✓ Marriage/birth certificates (apostilled + translated) for family members
- ✓ Passport photos (2–3 each)
- ✓ Employment contract (for work permit holders)
- ✓ Proof of health insurance (can be started post-registration within 3 months)
Tip: Book your appointment online at your commune (Gemeinde) website as soon as you know your move-in date. Bring ORIGINAL documents + 2 copies of each. If you have family: all members must be physically present. You'll receive an Anmeldebestätigung / attestation d'établissement — the key document for everything that follows.
Local institution: Einwohnerkontrolle / Contrôle des habitants / Controllo abitanti (Residents' Registration Office (Commune))
Time: 30 minutes at commune · Cost: CHF 10–30 departure fee
Deadline: 14 days before departure to 1 week after
Risk if missed: Continued Swiss tax residence claimed by authority (full tax obligation), ongoing Serafe billing, continued KVG premium liability
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Permit card (to surrender if non-EU)
- ✓ New address abroad
Tip: Pay outstanding taxes BEFORE deregistration (commune will withhold confirmation). KVG termination effective only from day after Abmeldung — submit to insurer. Set up post forwarding at post.ch for 6–12 months. Non-EU: hand in permit card — preserving it can block future Swiss re-entry applications.
Local institution: Einwohnerkontrolle / Contrôle des habitants
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–60 days for recognition decision · Cost: Registration free. Annual AHV/IV/EO contributions 5.3–10% of net profit. VAT CHF 500 registration fee if applicable.
Deadline: Within 30 days of starting activity
Risk if missed: AHV back-contributions + interest + possible denial of self-employed status (re-classified as employee by Ausgleichskasse)
Documents needed:
- ✓ AHV number
- ✓ Business plan / activity description
- ✓ Proof of 3+ clients (contracts or invoices)
- ✓ Liability insurance for some trades
- ✓ Permit status (non-EU require employment permit)
Tip: Self-employed NOT covered by ALV (unemployment insurance) or mandatory UVG accident. Take out private Erwerbsunfähigkeitsversicherung + UVG private. Freelancers earning < CHF 100,000/year do not need VAT registration. Non-EU citizens CANNOT freely become self-employed — need specific self-employment permit.
Local institution: Cantonal Ausgleichskasse (AHV compensation office)
Time: 20 minutes online application per insurer; card delivered in 2–4 weeks · Cost: CHF 260–550/month per adult (canton + age + insurer + deductible). Children CHF 120–160/month. Family of 4: CHF 800–1,500/month typically.
Deadline: Within 3 months of arrival / commune registration
Risk if missed: Canton auto-assigns you to an insurer; back-premiums owed + up to 50% surcharge. Delayed coverage means you pay full medical bills if you need care.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport + residence permit
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
- ✓ Birth certificates for family members
- ✓ Signed insurance application form
Tip: Compare at priminfo.admin.ch (official federal tool) or comparis.ch — premiums vary CHF 100–200/month between insurers for identical basic cover. Choose insurance MODEL carefully (Standard / Hausarzt / Telmed / HMO — saves 10–20% if you accept GP gatekeeping). Choose your deductible strategically: CHF 300 default, CHF 2,500 max — higher = lower premium, only beneficial if using <CHF 2,000/year in care. Low income: apply for cantonal premium subsidy (Prämienverbilligung).
Local institution: Krankenkasse / Caisse maladie / Cassa malati (Health Insurance Fund)
Time: 2–4 weeks · Cost: Swiss KVG student: CHF 260–400/month. Cantonal student plan (some unis): CHF 130–200/month.
Deadline: Within 3 months of arrival
Documents needed:
- ✓ University admission
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
- ✓ EHIC if EU
Tip: ETH, EPFL, UZH offer dedicated student health-insurance recommendations. EU students <30 with EHIC: apply for exemption at cantonal KVG office. Non-EU students: compare on priminfo.admin.ch. Accident insurance included if you work part-time through university.
Time: 2–6 hours if simple; up to 2 days complex. Treuhänder (tax advisor) handles for CHF 400–1,500. · Cost: Free to file yourself. Tax advisor CHF 400–2,000. Tax owed: varies hugely (cantonal + communal + federal = 0–45% marginal).
Deadline: 31 March (most cantons); extension possible to 30 September on request (free or CHF 20–40)
Risk if missed: Late-filing fee CHF 50–500. Tax office estimates your income upwards ("amtliche Einschätzung") — usually MUCH higher than reality. Interest on unpaid balance (1–5%/year). Harder to correct later.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Lohnausweis (salary certificate — employer provides in January)
- ✓ Bank/brokerage year-end statements
- ✓ Pillar 3a payment confirmations
- ✓ Debt + mortgage interest statements
- ✓ Insurance premium receipts
- ✓ Childcare receipts
- ✓ Property documents (rental value, maintenance)
- ✓ Medical expenses over 5% of income
Tip: Cantonal tax software (ZHprivate, GeTax, TaxMe, BalTax, etc.) is free and reasonably good. File early for refund. High-salary earners: request a Quellensteuer correction (Antrag auf Neuveranlagung) if you have 3a contributions / childcare / high medical bills — claim the deductions even on source-tax. File extension EARLY (before 31 March) if you need time.
Local institution: Kantonales Steueramt / Administration fiscale cantonale (Cantonal Tax Office)
Where to go: Einwohnerkontrolle of your new commune; many communes allow online registration via their website or the ch.ch portal
Local institution: Einwohnerkontrolle / Contrôle des habitants
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks processing; language test may be required · Cost: Free at state schools. International/private schools CHF 15,000–40,000/year.
Deadline: As soon as possible after arrival (before term start ideally)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Child passport
- ✓ Birth certificate
- ✓ Vaccination record
- ✓ Previous school reports (translated if needed)
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
Tip: Swiss state schools are excellent and fully free — consider even if you initially planned international school. Children may be placed in "Deutsch/Français als Zweitsprache" intensive classes for 1–2 terms before mainstream. International schools (Zurich International School, International School of Geneva, Basel IS) cost CHF 25–40k/year but ease transition.
Local institution: Schulpflege / Commission scolaire (Commune)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Where to go: Your Gemeindeschule (commune school administration)
Time: 4–12 weeks before arrival (non-EU); 2–4 weeks after arrival (EU/EFTA) · Cost: CHF 100–200 visa/permit fees
Deadline: At least 3 months before semester start (non-EU)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ University admission letter
- ✓ Proof of CHF 21,000+/year (bank statement/scholarship/sponsor)
- ✓ Accommodation confirmation
- ✓ Health insurance proof
- ✓ CV + motivation letter
Tip: Swiss public universities (ETH, UZH, EPFL, UNIGE, UNIBAS, UNIBE, HSG, USI) charge only CHF 730–1,600/semester — incredible value. Tuition + cost of living: budget CHF 24,000–35,000/year total. Students can work 15 hours/week during semester + full-time in holidays. Register with commune within 14 days of arrival.
Local institution: Migrationsamt via university + commune
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–60 minutes; processing 4–12 weeks · Cost: CHF 65–150 depending on canton
Where to go: Your cantonal Migrationsamt. Find your canton's office at sem.admin.ch
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current B-permit and passport
- ✓ Evidence of continued qualifying basis (employment contract, pay slips)
- ✓ Proof of accommodation
- ✓ Health insurance certificate
- ✓ Photos
Local institution: Kantonales Migrationsamt / Amt für Migration (Cantonal Migration Office)
Where to go: Any licensed veterinarian for microchip and AMICUS registration; amicus.ch for database access; Kantonaler Veterinärdienst for dog tax
Local institution: AMICUS / Kantonaler Veterinärdienst
Time: 2–6 weeks after first employment report or registration · Cost: Free
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
- ✓ Employment contract (if employed)
Tip: You do NOT apply — employer registers you with the cantonal Ausgleichskasse on first salary. If you're self-employed: register yourself within 30 days of starting business at your cantonal Ausgleichskasse. If still no card after 2 months of employment, ask HR to follow up. Once assigned, the AHV number is yours for life.
Local institution: Ausgleichskasse / Caisse de compensation (Social Security Compensation Office)
Time: First bill typically arrives 1–3 months after registration · Cost: CHF 335/year per household (one fee, regardless of number of residents or devices)
Documents needed:
- ✓ None — Serafe bills automatically after Anmeldung
Tip: You CANNOT opt out unless you can demonstrate you have NO device capable of receiving radio/TV (virtually impossible with phones). Pay on receipt — ignoring bills triggers Betreibung + damaged credit. One fee per household (not per person). If sharing a flat/WG, split the fee informally among residents.
Local institution: Serafe AG
Time: 3–6 weeks preparation · Cost: EUR 150–300 microchip + vaccination. Transport CHF 300–1,500 depending on airline/size. EU pet passport at Swiss vet CHF 40–60 on arrival.
Deadline: Complete 21+ days before arrival
Documents needed:
- ✓ ISO microchip proof
- ✓ Rabies vaccination record (21+ days before)
- ✓ EU pet passport or equivalent
- ✓ Tapeworm treatment (not required for CH, but check connecting EU rules)
Tip: Check breed restrictions: Geneva, Vaud, Ticino, Zurich restrict certain breeds (Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Staffordshire etc.) — import may be banned or require cantonal permit. EU pet passport is the simplest route. First Swiss vet visit: register in ANIS (cats) / AMICUS (dogs).
Time: 1 hour registration + ongoing weekly job-search documentation · Cost: Free — benefit CHF 7,080–9,800/month 70–80% of insured salary
Deadline: Day after notice end or immediately on job loss
Risk if missed: Every day of delay = lost benefit day. Waiting-period days (Einstelltage) added as penalty.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport + residence permit
- ✓ Termination letter / contract-end notice
- ✓ Arbeitszeugnis (employment reference)
- ✓ Recent pay slips
- ✓ Bank details
Tip: Register ONLINE at work.swiss or in person — do not wait until after a holiday. Collect Arbeitszeugnis from employer. RAV will require minimum job applications per month (typically 8–12) — keep detailed log. Benefit duration: 260–520 days depending on age + contribution history.
Local institution: RAV / ORP / URC — Regional Employment Centre
Time: 2–3 hour initial appointment · Cost: Free to register. ALV contribution 2.2% of gross salary already paid from payslip.
Deadline: Within 5 working days of receiving notice
Risk if missed: ALV benefits may start later; suspension period possible
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport / permit
- ✓ IBAN
- ✓ Employment termination letter
- ✓ Last 12 months payslips
- ✓ CV
- ✓ AHV card
Tip: Bring all documents to first RAV appointment. You must actively search ≥10 jobs/month and document every application. Refusing suitable work offers without valid reason results in ALV suspension. Language courses and re-training possible via RAV.
Local institution: RAV — Regionales Arbeitsvermittlungszentrum / ORP — Office Régional de Placement
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks registration; quarterly or monthly returns thereafter · Cost: Registration free. VAT filing via ESTV SuisseTax portal free. Accountant for VAT CHF 500–2,000/year.
Deadline: Within 30 days of crossing CHF 100k threshold
Risk if missed: Back-tax + interest + penalty 10–200% of unpaid VAT
Documents needed:
- ✓ Business registration extract (Zefix)
- ✓ Expected turnover statement
- ✓ IBAN for VAT account
Tip: Small businesses can elect "Saldo Rate" (Saldosteuersatz) — simplified VAT with single rate by industry, no itemised deductions. Reduces admin by 70%. Apply via ESTV SuisseTax portal.
Local institution: ESTV — Federal Tax Administration
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours initial DTT review. Annual tax return: 2–6 hours or with Treuhänder (tax advisor). · Cost: Free (self-service). Treuhänder/Steuerberater: CHF 200–500 for initial cross-border pension assessment.
Deadline: Steuererklärung filing deadline varies by canton — typically 31 March (extendable to 30 November).
Risk if missed: Double taxation without relief. Cantonal tax penalties for undeclared foreign income. Automatic information exchange (CRS/AEOI) — Switzerland reports all foreign account holders to their home tax authorities, and receives information in return.
Where to go: Cantonal Steueramt for tax return filing and DTT clarification. ESTV (estv.admin.ch) for treaty texts and guidance.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Foreign pension award letter and annual pension statements
- ✓ Double tax treaty between Switzerland and source country (ESTV provides all Swiss DTTs at estv.admin.ch)
- ✓ Swiss AHV number and cantonal tax ID
- ✓ Annual Steuererklärung (cantonal tax return)
Tip: Switzerland is party to the OECD Common Reporting Standard (CRS) — undeclared foreign accounts are routinely discovered. The Quellensteuer (withholding tax at source) for non-C-permit holders replaces the standard tax return process — rates vary by canton and income level. Once you obtain a C permit or marry a Swiss citizen, you switch to the standard Steuererklärung system. Consult a fiduciaire/Treuhänder experienced in cross-border matters.
Local institution: Kantonales Steueramt / Eidgenössische Steuerverwaltung (ESTV) (Cantonal Tax Office / Federal Tax Administration)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 hours preparation + 6–12 month refund processing · Cost: Free to file. Typical refund CHF 500–5,000 for eligible deductions.
Deadline: 31 March following tax year
Documents needed:
- ✓ Lohnausweis
- ✓ 3a statement
- ✓ Childcare receipts
- ✓ Alimony payment proof
- ✓ Medical bills over 5% of income
- ✓ Bank statements
Tip: Huge under-used benefit for Quellensteuer B-permit holders. File via cantonal online portal. Particularly valuable if: you maxed 3a (CHF 7,258 deduction), paid childcare (CHF 5,000–25,500 deduction), or alimony. Refund usually 2–4 months later.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–4 weeks for issue after appointment. Control drive (if required) 45 min. · Cost: CHF 100–180 exchange + CHF 15–25 eye test. Control drive (non-EU countries): CHF 180–260.
Deadline: Within 12 months of becoming Swiss resident
Risk if missed: Driving without valid licence — CHF 500–4,000 fine + insurance invalid + possible 1+ months licence revocation + criminal record
Documents needed:
- ✓ Original foreign licence
- ✓ Passport + residence permit
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
- ✓ Eye test result (Sehtest, any optician CHF 15–25)
- ✓ Passport photos
Tip: Book your Strassenverkehrsamt appointment 2–3 months before the 12-month deadline to leave buffer. Non-EU countries (not on equivalence list): you may need full Swiss test — start VKU road-awareness course + driving lessons 6 months ahead. Keep a copy of your exchanged foreign licence.
Local institution: Strassenverkehrsamt / Service des automobiles (Cantonal Road Traffic Office)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 4–8 weeks total (customs + MFK + registration) · Cost: Customs 0% (Übersiedlungsgut) or 4% + 8.1% VAT. MFK CHF 150–300. Registration CHF 50–200. Plates CHF 40–100.
Deadline: Within 12 months of immigration for Übersiedlungsgut exemption
Documents needed:
- ✓ Foreign vehicle registration
- ✓ Purchase proof (invoice or contract)
- ✓ MFK roadworthiness certificate (Swiss)
- ✓ Insurance confirmation
- ✓ Customs clearance (Zoll) — e-dec Import
- ✓ Residence permit
Tip: Non-EU + US imports may require technical modifications (headlights, rear-fog lamp, speedometer in km/h) — costly. Cheaper often to sell in home country and buy Swiss. Number plates stay with OWNER in Switzerland — if you keep your Swiss plates, you can transfer them to future vehicles.
Local institution: Strassenverkehrsamt / Service des automobiles
Time: Neobank: 10–20 minutes via app. Traditional bank: 30–60 minutes at branch, account active 1–3 days. · Cost: CHF 0 (Neon, Yuh, Zak), CHF 5–15/month (PostFinance, UBS, cantonal). Credit cards CHF 50–600/year.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport + residence permit (B/C/L)
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
- ✓ Employment contract or proof of income
- ✓ Swiss mobile number (for SMS verification at most banks)
Tip: Fastest for expats: Neon or Yuh (fully in English, free Swiss IBAN in 10 min). For mortgage/business needs: PostFinance, UBS, Raiffeisen or cantonal bank. US citizens: confirm acceptance before applying — some Swiss banks decline US persons due to FATCA. Join TWINT during account setup (Swiss mobile-payment standard used everywhere).
Local institution: Bank / banque / banca
Time: 15–30 minutes in-store or online activation · Cost: Prepaid SIM CHF 20–50 starter. Monthly plans CHF 20–90 depending on data.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
Tip: Best coverage: Swisscom (premium but expensive). Best value: Salt, Wingo, Yallo, Sunrise mvno brands (CHF 20–30/month unlimited Swiss). Budget prepaid: Lebara, Lyca, Aldi Mobile. Try to get a contract with EU roaming included if you plan cross-border travel.
Time: Electricity + water: immediate (monopoly). Internet: 1–8 week activation. · Cost: Electricity CHF 60–150/month. Internet CHF 50–100/month. Mobile bundle savings possible.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Rental contract
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung
- ✓ IBAN for direct debit
Tip: Activate electricity by calling your canton's electricity provider on move-in day with meter reading photo. Book internet 4–6 weeks ahead — activation slow in new-construction buildings. Consider mobile + internet bundle (Swisscom Blue, Sunrise Home) for savings.
Where to go: Nearest Migros, Coop, or Lidl; find Apotheke at pharmasuisse.org
Where to go: ch.ch — start at ch.ch/en/digital-government; cantonal tax portals (e.g. ZHservices for Zürich, VaudTax for Vaud)
Local institution: Bundesbehörden / Confédération suisse
Where to go: swissuniversities.ch for portal overview; individual university admission portals
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–6 weeks (faster via online portal EasyGov) · Cost: CHF 1,500–3,000 notary + CHF 600 commercial register + CHF 20,000 share capital (retained as company asset)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Founder passport + residence permit
- ✓ Notarised articles of association
- ✓ Bank confirmation of CHF 20,000 share capital deposit
- ✓ Commercial register application
Tip: Use EasyGov.swiss federal portal — streamlined registration CHF 500 cheaper than notary-led. GmbH managing director must be Swiss-resident (you or a nominee). GmbH subject to 8.5% federal corporate tax + cantonal tax (total 11.9–21%). VAT registration mandatory if turnover > CHF 100k.
Local institution: Notar + Handelsregisteramt / Notaire + Registre du commerce
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 6–12 months waiting list urban; 1–3 months rural · Cost: Unsubsidised CHF 120–180/day. Subsidised CHF 20–80/day based on income.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Birth certificate
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Commune registration
- ✓ Income statement (for subsidy)
Tip: Register at multiple Kitas simultaneously. Ask employer HR — some large Swiss employers (UBS, Roche, Novartis, Swiss Re, Nestlé, ETH) have subsidised corporate daycare. Check commune subsidy eligibility at commune website. Tagesfamilie / famille de jour (home-based childminders) is an alternative — commune typically maintains list.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 15 minutes online account opening; funded by transfer · Cost: Digital providers: 0.4–0.5% all-in fee. Traditional bank 3a: hidden fees, avoid. Insurance 3a: high-fee trap, avoid.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Swiss bank account
- ✓ Passport + residence permit
- ✓ AHV number
Tip: Open a 3a in a low-tax canton (e.g., Schwyz via VIAC) to minimise withdrawal tax later. Open 3–5 separate 3a accounts over time — withdraw them staggered over 3+ years to minimise lump-sum tax. DO NOT use insurance-based 3a ("Säule 3a Lebensversicherung") — high fees, limited flexibility. Digital 3a in equity fund is standard.
Time: 10 minutes in-person at Betreibungsamt, or 5–10 days by post · Cost: CHF 17
Documents needed:
- ✓ ID / passport
Tip: Some cantons (ZH, BE, LU, BS) allow online ordering via cantonal portal — results PDF by email in 1–2 days. If you spot an unjustified Betreibung: file Rechtsvorschlag (objection) within 10 days; after 5 years, entries expire.
Local institution: Betreibungsamt / Office des poursuites (commune)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1 week to process buy-in · Cost: Buy-in CHF 10,000–500,000+ depending on potential. Tax saving 25–45% of buy-in amount (marginal rate).
Deadline: Before 31 December of target tax year
Documents needed:
- ✓ Annual Pensionskasse statement showing Einkaufspotenzial
- ✓ Transfer from Swiss bank
Tip: Ideal for high-earning expats in final working decade planning to retire in Switzerland. DO NOT buy-in if you might permanently emigrate within 3 years — the 3-year rule means you cannot withdraw the buy-in as a lump sum. Discuss with pension advisor (Vorsorgeberater) + accountant first.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 weeks to open + transfer · Cost: Free to open at digital providers (VIAC, finpension, frankly). Bank accounts may charge setup fees.
Deadline: Before leaving current Swiss job
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ AHV number
- ✓ Previous Pensionskasse statement
Tip: Open in a low-tax canton (Schwyz, Zug, Appenzell Innerrhoden) via VIAC / finpension to minimise future withdrawal tax. Invest in ETF-based Freizügigkeit for long-term growth (5–7% vs 0.2% in bank deposit). Move between providers by free transfer if you find better fees.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 4–10 weeks processing after submission · Cost: Withdrawal tax 2–15% cantonal (varies Schwyz 4.5%, Zurich 7–8%, Geneva 11–13%)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Abmeldebescheinigung
- ✓ Foreign residence proof
- ✓ AHV number
- ✓ Pension fund statements
Tip: Transfer your 3a + Freizügigkeit to a Schwyz- or Zug-based account 6 months BEFORE withdrawal — cantonal withdrawal tax is levied where the account sits at time of payout. Can save CHF 5,000–30,000. Withdraw multiple accounts in staggered tax years to reduce lump-sum rate. Leaving to non-EU/EFTA (e.g., USA, UK): full BVG withdrawal. Leaving within EU: only extra-mandatory portion.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–3 weeks per bank · Cost: Free for pre-approval from most banks
Documents needed:
- ✓ 3 years of Lohnausweis
- ✓ Bank/investment statements
- ✓ Pension fund statement
- ✓ Property details
- ✓ Tax returns
Tip: Compare rates + conditions at 2+ banks (UBS, Raiffeisen, cantonal bank, PostFinance, Migros Bank) OR use broker (Moneypark, Hypomat). SARON vs Fixed 5-year vs 10-year: split your mortgage into 2 tranches for risk balance. Cantonal banks often offer best mortgage rates.
Time: 1–4 weeks to find accepting GP. First appointment 30–60 min. · Cost: Free at point of care (billed to insurer, co-payment after deductible)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Krankenkassenkarte (health insurance card)
- ✓ Passport
Tip: Use doctorfmh.ch (Swiss Medical Association) with filter for your language. In cities, new-patient waitlists exist — register early even if not yet sick. Your Hausarzt writes sick notes, refers to specialists, does annual checks, manages chronic conditions.
Local institution: Hausarzt / médecin de famille / medico di famiglia
Time: 45–60 min cleaning + exam · Cost: CHF 200–400 cleaning/check. Fillings CHF 150–400. Crowns CHF 1,500–2,500.
Documents needed:
- ✓ None beyond booking
Tip: Consider Zahnzusatz insurance if you need regular work (covers 50–75% up to CHF 1,500–3,000/year after typically 12-month waiting period). Dental care abroad (Hungary, Germany) is popular for large procedures at 50–70% Swiss cost — plan carefully for post-op care.
Time: 1 hour research + first appointment · Cost: Billed to insurer + normal co-payment
Documents needed:
- ✓ Insurance card
Tip: International clinics: Hirslanden Group, Clinique de la Colline (Geneva), Klinik Pyramide (Zurich). Expat groups maintain Google Docs lists of recommended English-speaking doctors by city. Ask HR — large employers maintain preferred-doctor lists for expats.
Time: 1–3 months search, depending on canton. 2–4 weeks from signed contract to move-in. · Cost: Deposit = 2–3 months rent (in Mietkautionskonto). First month rent + utilities upfront. Moving costs CHF 2,000–6,000.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport + residence permit
- ✓ Betreibungsregisterauszug (debt-enforcement register extract) under 3 months old
- ✓ 3 most recent pay slips
- ✓ Employer confirmation letter (Arbeitgeberbestätigung)
- ✓ Liability insurance certificate (Privathaftpflicht)
- ✓ Reference letter from previous landlord
- ✓ Completed application form from Verwaltung
Tip: Main platforms: homegate.ch, immoscout24.ch, flatfox.ch. Apply within 24h of viewing with complete dossier. Write a short cover letter ("who we are, why we want this flat") — Verwaltungs often decide on this. NEVER pay deposit before signed contract — deposit goes to a tenant-named Mietkautionskonto only, NEVER to landlord directly. Cooperatives (Genossenschaftswohnungen) offer 30–40% below-market but have multi-year waiting lists.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Where to go: Cantonal social office (Sozialamt / Office social)
Time: 3–12 months processing depending on canton · Cost: CHF 100–300 application + CHF 40 permit card
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport + current B permit
- ✓ Anmeldebescheinigung / certificat de domicile
- ✓ Language certificate (fide or equivalent)
- ✓ Betreibungsregisterauszug (clean debt record)
- ✓ Tax statements last 3 years (no outstanding taxes)
- ✓ Employer confirmation
- ✓ Criminal record extract (Leumundszeugnis)
Tip: Start preparing 6 months ahead — pass language test first, clear any Betreibung, file any overdue taxes. C permit granted = virtually permanent residence. Absences over 6 months: notify Migrationsamt + request Beibehaltungsbewilligung to preserve status. C permit shortens path to naturalisation (still total 10 years residence needed).
Local institution: Migrationsamt / Office de la migration
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 18 months to 3+ years total (commune + canton + federal) · Cost: CHF 1,000–2,500 (commune + canton + federal fees combined)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ C permit (required)
- ✓ Proof of 10 years residence + 3 years in commune
- ✓ Language certificate (fide B1 oral / A2 written)
- ✓ Criminal record Leumundszeugnis
- ✓ Betreibungsregisterauszug
- ✓ Tax statements
- ✓ CV + integration evidence (volunteer work, club membership, etc.)
Tip: Document volunteer activity, club membership, and community involvement over time — strengthens naturalisation file. Some communes (Zurich, Geneva) have relatively streamlined processes; others (Schwyz, Uri) stricter. Spouse of Swiss citizen: facilitated naturalisation after 3 years marriage + 5 years residence. Dual citizenship allowed — check home country rules before applying.
Local institution: Commune + Cantonal authority + SEM (Commune + Canton + Federal State Secretariat for Migration)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–3 hours to prepare; processing 2–6 months · Cost: CHF 100–250 depending on canton
Where to go: Apply at your cantonal Migrationsamt. sem.admin.ch for general guidance.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport and current B-permit
- ✓ Proof of qualifying years of residence
- ✓ Language certificate (A2 in cantonal language)
- ✓ Income and employment documentation
- ✓ Criminal record clearance
Local institution: Kantonales Migrationsamt / Amt für Migration (Cantonal Migration Office)
Time: 15 minutes online application · Cost: Bundled Hausrat + Haftpflicht: CHF 150–350/year single; CHF 200–500/year family. Often cheaper online.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Swiss address
- ✓ ID
- ✓ Estimate of contents value
Tip: Bundle Hausrat + Haftpflicht for 10–20% savings. Online direct insurers (Smile, Simpego, AXA Direct) are 20–40% cheaper than traditional agents. Add "einfacher Diebstahl auswärts" rider (CHF 20–50/year) to cover stolen bags/phones/bikes outside the home.
Local institution: Versicherung / assurance
Time: 100–200 hours per CEFR level. 1–3 years to reach B1 for naturalisation. · Cost: Migros Klubschule: CHF 350–750 per 10-week level (group). Subsidised integration courses: CHF 0–600. Private lessons: CHF 90–150/hour.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Nothing for self-study; residence permit for subsidised courses
Tip: Start before arrival: Duolingo / Babbel / Goethe-Institut home-country + beginner class give you A1 before moving. On arrival: Migros Klubschule 4-week intensive. Family-reunion spouses + refugees qualify for 50–100% subsidised courses via cantonal Integration Office. Test level with free online placement; aim for B1 for naturalisation, A2 written for C-permit.
Time: 3–4 hours test + 2–3 weeks for results · Cost: CHF 250 (full test, 4 competences)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid ID
- ✓ Registration at accredited test centre
Tip: Study cards available at fide-info.ch. Practice oral components with tandem partner or teacher. Book at accredited centre (~60 nationwide). Alternative certificates accepted for naturalisation: Goethe B1, DELF B1, telc B1. Pass the test BEFORE applying for C permit or naturalisation — paperwork needs proof.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–3 hour consultation + draft preparation · Cost: Initial consultation CHF 150–400. Will notarisation CHF 300–1,500. Property deed 0.1–1% of value.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Varies — ID minimum
Tip: In "Beamtennotar" cantons (ZH, BE, BL, SO, LU, ...) notaries are state employees — lower fixed fees. In Latin cantons (GE, VD, VS, TI, NE, JU, FR): independent notaries with sliding scale — typically higher fees. Always request written quote in advance.
Local institution: Notar / notaire / notaio
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30 min handwritten, 1–2 notary visits · Cost: Holographic: free. Notarial: CHF 300–1,500.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Pen + paper (holographic) OR notary appointment (public will)
Tip: Deposit a copy with cantonal notary or bank for safekeeping + register its existence in the Zentrales Testamentsregister (ZTR) so it's found upon death. Since 2023 reform, forced-heirship share reduced — gives more disposition freedom. Cross-border estate: consult Swiss + home-country inheritance lawyer.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–3 hours preparation · Cost: Free if handwritten. Notarial: CHF 300–1,000.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Handwritten document or notarial deed
- ✓ Designated mandate holder's consent
Tip: Templates from Pro Senectute, Caritas, FMH. Ensure the person you designate knows and consents — ideally notarised. Keep original + inform family, commune, GP of existence. Combined with Patientenverfügung for complete incapacity planning.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Ongoing through tax year · Cost: Variable — can SAVE substantial money moving to low-tax canton
Documents needed:
- ✓ Anmeldebestätigung new commune
- ✓ Abmeldebescheinigung old commune
- ✓ Previous year tax return
- ✓ New employer details
Tip: Low-tax cantons: Schwyz, Zug, Nidwalden, Obwalden (tax rate 12–22% top marginal incl all levels). High-tax: Geneva, Jura, Basel-Stadt, Vaud (35–45%). Cross-border moves (Zurich to Zug): can save CHF 10,000–50,000/year on high income. Timing matters: move BEFORE year-end to make the new canton your "year-end" canton for wealth tax.
Time: 5 minutes online or in-store · Cost: CHF 40/year (same for e-vignette or physical sticker)
Deadline: Before driving on motorway in new year
Risk if missed: CHF 200 fine + must buy vignette on the spot. Police have automatic plate-readers on motorway.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Vehicle number plate
- ✓ Credit card / TWINT for online e-vignette
Tip: Get the e-vignette at via.admin.ch — no sticker to replace, auto-valid for your plate. Physical sticker sold at post offices, petrol stations, and borders. Buy BEFORE crossing into Switzerland if arriving by car from abroad.
Local institution: ASTRA / OFROU — Federal Roads Office
Time: 10 minutes online; physical card in 3–7 days · Cost: Halbtax: CHF 190 (1st year) / CHF 170 renewal. GA: CHF 3,995 (adult 2nd), CHF 6,520 (1st). Youth < 25: CHF 2,780 GA.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Passport photo (digital upload)
- ✓ Swiss address
Tip: New arrivals: start with Halbtax — pays back in 4 trips between cities. Upgrade to GA once you're commuting. Most Swiss urban residents over 25 hold Halbtax; GA is for frequent long-distance travellers or regional commuters who save on season ticket + occasional travel.
Local institution: SBB / CFF / FFS
Time: 10 hours over 1–2 weekends · Cost: CHF 100–150
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Learner permit
Tip: Find providers at samariter.ch. Courses run in DE/FR/IT/EN regularly. Book 2–3 months before your practical test. The certificate (Nothilfeausweis) is your driving-test prerequisite.
Local institution: Samariter / ASS / FSS
Time: 15 minutes purchase + installation · Cost: CHF 30–80 for LED light set
Documents needed:
- ✓ None
Tip: USB-rechargeable LED lights widely available at Migros, Coop, Velo-Shops. Always carry them (removable lights get stolen). For "fast" e-bikes (>25 km/h): yellow number plate + helmet + driver licence category M required.
Time: 2–6 weeks for first payment · Cost: Free to apply. Benefit CHF 215–350/month per child.
Deadline: As soon as child born or immigration
Documents needed:
- ✓ Birth certificate
- ✓ Passport + residence permit
- ✓ Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- ✓ Employment contract
- ✓ School/university enrollment (for ages 16+)
Tip: Only ONE claim per child per household — higher-earning parent (if both working) applies. Cross-border G-permit parents: bilateral coordination means you receive Swiss allowance even for children resident abroad in EU/EFTA. Apply proactively — employers often need reminding.
Local institution: Cantonal FAK / CAF — Family Allowance Fund