Relocation guide
New to Switzerland?
Everything you need to do after arriving, in order. Pick your canton to see local offices and tick off steps as you go — your progress is saved on this device.
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Register with your commune
Deadline: Within 14 days of arrival
Visit the residents' office (Einwohnerkontrolle / Contrôle des habitants / Ufficio controllo abitanti) with your passport, rental contract, passport photo and, if applicable, work contract and marriage/birth certificates.
Get your residence permit
Deadline: After registration
Your registration starts the permit process (L, B or C). You may be invited to the cantonal migration office to give biometrics. The permit card arrives by post.
Take out health insurance
Deadline: Within 3 months of arrival
Basic health insurance (LAMal/KVG) is mandatory for everyone and is backdated to your arrival date. Compare premiums and choose a deductible between CHF 300 and 2,500. Premiums vary by canton and region.
Open a bank account
Deadline: First weeks
Needed for salary and rent. Bring your passport, permit (or registration confirmation) and proof of address. Set up TWINT for everyday payments.
Social security (AHV/AVS number)
Deadline: With your first job
Your employer registers you with the old-age and survivors' insurance. Keep your AHV/AVS number card — you'll need it for insurance and taxes.
Understand your taxes
Deadline: Yearly
Most foreign workers with a B permit pay tax at source (Quellensteuer / impôt à la source) deducted from salary. C permit holders and higher earners file a yearly cantonal tax return.
Housing essentials
Deadline: When you move in
Pay your rental deposit into a blocked deposit account (max. 3 months' rent), get household liability insurance, and register for electricity with your local provider.
Learn the waste & house rules
Deadline: First week
Many communes require official paid rubbish bags or stickers. Recycling (PET, glass, paper, cardboard) is collected separately. Respect quiet hours, usually 22:00–07:00 and Sundays.
Public transport
Deadline: Anytime
Consider a Half Fare card (Halbtax / demi-tarif) or a regional pass. The SBB app covers trains, buses and trams nationwide.
Exchange your driving licence
Deadline: Within 12 months
Foreign licences are valid for 12 months after arrival. Exchange yours at the cantonal road traffic office; some countries require a test drive.
Register pets, TV/radio and children
Deadline: After registration
Dogs must be registered with the commune. The Serafe TV/radio fee is billed automatically per household. Enrol school-age children through your commune's school office.
Learn the language & meet people
Deadline: Ongoing
Communes and cantons often offer subsidised language courses and welcome events for newcomers. Join local groups and events on SwissForums.
General guidance only. Rules differ between communes — always confirm with the official office.