Moving to Switzerland involves several administrative steps that must usually be completed within the first days or weeks after arrival. While the exact process depends on your nationality and canton, most expats will go through the same initial checklist.
1. Register your address with the local municipality
After arriving in Switzerland you typically need to register with the local residents' office (Gemeinde / Commune / Comune) within 14 days.
You will usually need:
- passport or ID
- rental contract or proof of address
- employment contract if applicable
This step is required for the official creation of your residence record.
2. Receive your residence permit
Depending on your nationality and employment status you will receive a Swiss residence permit (B permit, L permit, or others).
In many cantons you will provide biometric data and receive the physical permit card a few weeks later.
3. Open a Swiss bank account
Most employers require a Swiss bank account for salary payments.
Opening an account usually requires:
- passport
- proof of address
- residence permit or registration confirmation
Large banks such as UBS, Credit Suisse, Raiffeisen and cantonal banks offer expat friendly accounts.
4. Arrange health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland.
You normally have three months after arrival to choose a provider. Once registered, the coverage is applied retroactively from your arrival date.
5. Understand your tax situation
Many expats are taxed at source (Quellensteuer) if they are employees without permanent residency.
Your tax situation may change depending on income, marital status or canton. Understanding this early can prevent surprises later.
6. Set up essential services
Other practical steps may include:
- mobile phone contract
- internet connection
- public transport subscription
- insurance policies
This checklist covers the most common first steps. Exact procedures may vary depending on your canton and residence permit type.
After completing these initial steps, expats usually move on to more detailed administrative matters such as tax planning, insurance optimisation and long-term residency considerations.