Moving to Zurich, Switzerland – First Things First
Moving to Zurich, Switzerland – First Things First
Before moving to Switzerland, it is crucial to determine your visa requirements and apply for the necessary permits. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay, such as work, study, or family reunification. Research the specific requirements for your situation and gather all the necessary documents. It is recommended to start the visa application process well in advance to allow for any potential delays. Consulting with an immigration lawyer or contacting the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements and application procedures.
Once you have relocated to Switzerland, it is important to set up healthcare coverage as soon as possible. Switzerland has a mandatory health insurance system, and all residents are required to have basic health insurance coverage. You can choose from various insurance providers, so it is advisable to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, it is essential to find a doctor or healthcare provider in Switzerland. You can ask for recommendations from locals or use online directories to find healthcare professionals in your area. Registering with a doctor will ensure that you have access to medical care whenever needed.
Resources for Expats moving to Zurich, Switzerland
RelocateYou: RelocateYOU is your 24/7 Relocation Pocket Guide for Moving to the Greater Zurich Area
Becomelocal: Becomelocal
HelloSwitzerland: Hello Switzerland
Recommended Partners
Immigration, Work, and Residence Permit:
BecomeLocal: https://becomelocal.ch/en
Move of Household Goods and Relocation/Homefinding Services:
Keller Swiss Group: https://www.kellerswissgroup.com/en
Health Insurance: expatpartners ag: https://www.expatpartners.ch/en/ and www.auslandkrankenkasse.ch
Temporary Living
MyNest – Nest Operator – Premium furnished apartment in Zurich, Basel, Zug and Lucerne
City Stay Furnished Apartments – Web: www.citystay.ch
Financial Planning
Keren-Jo Thomas – www.kerenjothomas.com
Tax Planning for Private Individuals
Residence: Switzerland
Expat Tax Consulting Claude Angst
Should you still have a second residence in our neighboring countries or if you consider becoming a cross-border commuter we highly recommend these tax advisors. Kindly mention us as a reference.
| Residence: Austria | Residence: Germany | Residence: Liechtenstein |
| StB Gerhard Steger | StB Matthias Langer |
StB Andy Wepf |
Further Tips, Books, and Resources
- Bewes, D. (2020): The Expert Guide to your Life in Switzerland, Bergli Books.
- Bewes, D. (2010): Swiss Watching, Nicholas Brealey Publishing.
- EY Moving to Switzerland (2020)
- The Digital Nomad – Part 1 – Why I’m inspired to grow Global People Transitions Organically
- The Digital Nomad – Part 2 – Same Old or New Breed?
- The Digital Nomad – Part 3 – Improve Your Productivity Kanban-Style
- The Digital Nomad – Part 4 – How to be a Global Digital Coach, Consultant ot Trainer
- The Digital Nomad – Part 5 – Which Channels to use in Order to be a More Effective Global Digital Nomad
Home Search
Websites for Apartment Search
- https://flatfox.ch/en/
- https://www.wgzimmer.ch
- https://www.immoscout24.ch
- https://www.homegate.ch/rent
- https://www.ronorp.net/zurich_en/housing
If you need more specific advice please email us.
Template for Your Relocation Checklist
I find relocation checklists very helpful as there are a lot of details to consider in an international move. I created this template for a checklist together with “The Global Mobility Workbook (Third Edition)” and am happy to share it with you. Let me know if you cannot access the file. Usually, it works best from a Google Account.
Facebook Groups
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/housinginzurich/
- https://www.facebook.com/Zurich.Flat.Apartment.Room/
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/876801915677707/
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/ZurichHousing/
Social Life
Facebook Groups can be a good starting point to find your new support and friend group.
References
On migration:
SEM State Secretariat for Migration
On health insurance:
Insurance Comparisons:
On importing your car and changing your driver’s license:
