Moving to Switzerland is an exciting journey filled with new opportunities, stunning landscapes, and one of the highest standards of living in the world. But before you can enjoy Swiss life, there’s a lot to organize—from legal paperwork and housing to banking and health insurance. This step-by-step guide will help you plan your arrival efficiently, ensuring nothing important slips through the cracks.
Whether you’re moving for work, studies, or personal reasons, this comprehensive checklist will guide you through the essential steps of settling in Switzerland smoothly.
Step 1: Secure Your Residence Permit or Visa
Before setting foot in Switzerland, make sure you have the appropriate visa or residence permit. The type of permit depends on your nationality and reason for moving.
- EU/EFTA citizens: No visa required, but you must register with local authorities within 14 days.
- Non-EU/EFTA citizens: Apply for a visa (e.g., work, student, or family reunification) through the Swiss consulate in your home country. You’ll receive a residence permit after arrival.
Important documents for your application:
- Passport
- Job offer or admission letter
- Proof of accommodation
- Financial proof (bank statements or sponsor letter)
- Health insurance (or intention to purchase it after arrival)
Apply at least 3 months before your move to allow for processing time.
Step 2: Find a Place to Live
Housing in Switzerland is competitive, especially in cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne. It’s best to start looking early—even before arrival.
Options include:
- Short-term rentals or Airbnb: Ideal for your first weeks while house hunting.
- University accommodation: Available for students but requires early application.
- Permanent rentals: Search on platforms like homegate.ch, immoscout24.ch, or comparis.ch.
When renting:
- Be prepared to submit a rental application, proof of income, and a personal introduction letter.
- Security deposits are usually 1–3 months’ rent.
- Tenancy agreements are typically in German, French, or Italian—have them translated if necessary.
Tip: Consider proximity to public transport and cantonal boundaries (they affect taxes and school zones).
Step 3: Register Your Address
Once you’ve secured housing, you must register your residence with the local municipality (commune/gemeinde) within 14 days of moving in.
Bring:
- Passport and visa/residence permit
- Rental agreement or housing confirmation
- Passport photos
- Proof of health insurance (if already purchased)
You’ll receive your official residence permit card by mail, which may take a few weeks.
This registration is essential for accessing health insurance, banking, and public services.
Step 4: Purchase Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland. You have up to 3 months from your arrival to purchase basic health insurance (LaMal/KVG). If you miss the deadline, you may be automatically assigned a provider.
Steps:
- Compare premiums and models at priminfo.ch or comparis.ch.
- Choose your deductible and coverage plan.
- Apply with a provider (CSS, Helsana, Assura, etc.).
- Send confirmation to your commune.
Don’t forget to include accident coverage if you’re unemployed or self-employed, as it’s not included by default.
Step 5: Open a Swiss Bank Account
You’ll need a local bank account to pay rent, receive a salary, or manage bills.
Top banks:
- UBS
- Credit Suisse
- PostFinance
- Raiffeisen
- Neobanks: Neon, Zak, or Yapeal (great for expats)
Required documents:
- Passport
- Residence permit or registration certificate
- Swiss address
Tip: Many banks offer online-only accounts with no monthly fees and user-friendly apps in English.
Step 6: Get a Swiss Phone Number and Internet
Staying connected is vital for settling in.
Mobile providers:
- Swisscom (best coverage)
- Sunrise (good deals)
- Salt (affordable)
- M-Budget or Coop Mobile (budget options)
Options:
- Prepaid SIM (easy to get, no contracts)
- Postpaid contract (cheaper in the long run, but requires a credit check and residence)
Internet:
- Combine with TV/mobile for discounts (Sunrise, Swisscom, Salt)
- Installation may take 1–2 weeks, so arrange early
Tip: Use Wi-Fi calling or international apps (e.g., WhatsApp) while transitioning.
Step 7: Understand Waste and Recycling Rules
Switzerland is strict about recycling and waste disposal.
Key rules:
- Use official garbage bags (“tax bags”) specific to your canton.
- Separate paper, cardboard, glass, PET, aluminum, and organic waste.
- Return bottles and electronics to collection points (Migros, Coop, recycling centers).
Check your commune’s website for local rules and schedules. Fines apply for improper disposal.
Step 8: Apply for Insurance Beyond Health
Besides health insurance, consider:
- Liability insurance (RC): Covers damage you cause to others’ property.
- Household insurance: Protects your belongings against theft, fire, or water damage.
- Accident insurance: Mandatory if not employed.
- Travel insurance: Useful for holidays or if visiting your home country.
Many providers bundle these policies for discounts.
Step 9: Get Your Public Transport Pass
Switzerland’s public transport is reliable and widely used. You can save money with monthly or yearly passes.
Options:
- Swiss Half Fare Card: 50% off all trains, buses, and boats
- Regional passes: For specific areas (e.g., Zurich, Bern)
- SBB mobile app: Plan trips and buy digital tickets
If you commute daily, check with your employer about travel subsidies.
Step 10: Enroll in Language Courses
While many people in Switzerland speak English, speaking the local language makes daily life easier.
Language by region:
- German: Zurich, Bern, Basel
- French: Geneva, Lausanne
- Italian: Lugano, Ticino
Find courses at:
- Migros Klubschule
- Volkshochschule
- Universities or community centers
- Online platforms like Babbel or Duolingo
Some cantons offer free or subsidized courses for new arrivals.
Step 11: Prepare for Cultural Differences
Switzerland values punctuality, privacy, and environmental responsibility. It’s important to adapt to these customs early.
Etiquette tips:
- Always greet with “Grüezi,” “Bonjour,” or “Buongiorno”
- Respect quiet hours (especially Sundays)
- Don’t recycle at night
- Be on time for appointments—being late is considered rude
Swiss life is organized, but locals appreciate friendliness and politeness from newcomers.
Step 12: Register Your Children (If Applicable)
If you’re moving with kids:
- Children aged 4+ must be enrolled in local schools
- School registration is done through the commune
- Public schools are free and high-quality
- Private and international schools are available, but costly
Check vaccination and health requirements beforehand.
Step 13: Join Local Communities and Networks
Building a support network helps you settle faster.
Join:
- Expat Facebook groups (e.g., Expats in Switzerland)
- Meetup.com for hobbies and language exchange
- Local cultural or sports clubs
- University groups if you’re a student
Many cities offer welcome centers or integration offices with helpful resources.
Final Thoughts
Arriving in Switzerland is exciting but comes with a to-do list that can feel overwhelming. With this step-by-step arrival guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate your first weeks and months with confidence.
Registering on time, getting insured, opening a bank account, and learning a bit of the local language will put you on the path to enjoying everything Switzerland has to offer—from its mountains and lakes to its efficiency and high quality of life.