Moving to Switzerland

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating Swiss visa and residence permits is a crucial first step, and the process largely depends on your nationality. Switzerland differentiates significantly between EU/EFTA citizens and those from other countries.

• EU/EFTA Citizens: Generally enjoy more straightforward access to residence permits, often requiring only registration with the local commune upon arrival and proof of sufficient funds or employment.
• Non-EU/EFTA Citizens: Typically require a visa to enter Switzerland and a residence permit to live and work here. Common routes for obtaining a residence permit include:
  • Work Permit: Usually tied to a specific employer who sponsors your application, demonstrating that no suitable Swiss or EU/EFTA candidate could be found.
  • Family Reunification: For spouses and dependent children of Swiss citizens or foreign residents.
  • Study Permit: For individuals enrolled in an accredited Swiss educational institution.
  • Permit for Retirees/Individuals of Independent Means: For those who can prove sufficient financial resources and often, a special cantonal interest.

It is imperative to verify the most current requirements and procedures directly with the official Swiss migration authorities (e.g., the State Secretariat for Migration - SEM, or your specific canton's migration office) or the Swiss embassy/consulate in your current country of residence. Requirements can vary by canton and evolve over time.

Housing & Rental

Finding housing in Switzerland, especially in popular urban centers, can be competitive. Understanding the rental market and process is key to a successful search.

• How to Find Housing:
  • Online Portals: The primary method. Popular Swiss real estate websites list most available properties.
  • Real Estate Agencies: Can assist with your search, though they may charge a fee.
  • Networking: Word-of-mouth can sometimes lead to opportunities.
• Typical Rental Process:
  • Viewing: Be prepared to attend group viewings, especially for popular properties.
  • Application: You'll submit an application form, often including proof of income, a copy of your residence permit (if available), and sometimes an extract from the debt enforcement register (Betreibungsregisterauszug).
  • Lease Agreement: Once accepted, you'll sign a detailed lease agreement (Mietvertrag). Read it carefully.
• Deposits: A security deposit (Mietkaution) is standard, typically equivalent to three months' rent. This is held in a blocked bank account in your name and returned after you move out, provided there are no damages or outstanding rent.
• Temporary vs. Long-Term: Many newcomers opt for temporary accommodation (serviced apartments, short-term rentals) upon arrival to allow time for an in-person search for a long-term lease. Long-term leases usually run for a minimum of one year, with notice periods for termination typically ranging from three to six months.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The total cost of your relocation to Switzerland is influenced by several factors, making each move unique. Understanding these variables will help you budget effectively.

• Volume of Goods: The more items you move, the higher the cost. This is often measured in cubic meters (m³) or weight.
• Distance: The geographical distance between your current home and your new Swiss address directly impacts transportation costs.
• Seasonality: Moving during peak seasons (e.g., summer months) or at the end/beginning of the month can sometimes incur higher costs due to increased demand.
• Access & Logistics: Ease of access at both your origin and destination (e.g., narrow streets, stairs, lack of elevator, parking restrictions) can affect labor time and require specialized equipment, adding to the expense.
• Extra Services: Opting for additional services such as professional packing and unpacking, disassembly and reassembly of furniture, storage solutions, or specialized handling for delicate/valuable items will increase the overall cost. Insurance for your belongings is also an additional, highly recommended service.

For an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs, it's essential to request a detailed, free quote from a relocation expert.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-organized timeline and smart packing strategies can significantly reduce stress during your move to Switzerland.

• 8 Weeks Before Moving:
  • Declutter and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This reduces moving volume and cost.
  • Research and secure your housing in Switzerland, if possible.
  • Begin collecting important documents (passports, birth certificates, marriage licenses, academic records, medical records, financial statements).
  • Contact your relocation provider for a survey and quote.
• 4-6 Weeks Before Moving:
  • Confirm your moving date and services with your relocation provider.
  • Notify your current landlord of your move-out date.
  • Start notifying utility companies (electricity, gas, water, internet, phone) of your move-out date and arrange for final readings.
  • Arrange for mail redirection to your new Swiss address.
  • If packing yourself, start gathering packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap).
• 2 Weeks Before Moving:
  • Confirm travel arrangements to Switzerland.
  • Pack an "essentials" box with items you'll need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, medications, important documents, a few changes of clothes).
  • Defrost and clean your refrigerator/freezer.
  • Arrange for professional cleaning of your current home, if required by your lease.
• Packing Tips:
  • Label Everything Clearly: Indicate contents and the room it belongs to in your new home.
  • Pack a "First Night" Box: Include essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic tools, and snacks.
  • Protect Valuables: Consider carrying very important documents, jewelry, and small valuables with you.
  • Don't Overpack Boxes: Heavy boxes are harder to move and more prone to breaking.
  • Take Photos: Document the condition of valuable items before packing for insurance purposes.

Ready to make your move to Switzerland seamless? Request a free quote on relocation123.com today.

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Switzerland: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to Switzerland is an exciting adventure, and understanding the customs and import regulations for your personal belongings is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide will help you navigate the process, ensuring your move is as stress-free as possible.

If you're relocating as a new resident

Bringing your household goods into Switzerland as a new resident is generally duty-free, provided the items have been in your possession and use for at least six months prior to shipping. The import must take place within 24 months of your official change of residence. If you plan to send additional shipments, these must be declared with your main import and also arrive within the 24-month window.

What you'll need

• Original signed Customs form 18.44.
• Copy of passport for all co-immigrating persons (picture page).
• Inventory of goods translated into French, German, Italian, or English.
• Copy of your Swiss lease agreement or property title (countersigned).
• Copy of your registration certificate from the local town hall.
• For immigrants from EU countries: A copy of your residence permit or approval letter ("Zusicherung der Aufenthaltsbewilligung" / "Ermächtigung zur Visumerteilung") OR your countersigned employment contract.
• For foreign non-EU immigrants: Your countersigned employment contract AND a copy of your residence permit or approval letter ("Zusicherung der Aufenthaltsbewilligung" / "Ermächtigung zur Visumerteilung").

Good to know

• The imported goods must have been in your use and possession for at least 6 months prior to shipping.
• Import of household goods must occur within 24 months from your change of residence.
• Second or additional shipments must be declared with the main import and also arrive within 24 months of your change of residence.
• Customs authorities may request further documents, such as a working contract, de-registration from your origin residence, or cost of the move.

Returning Swiss citizens

If you are a Swiss citizen returning home after living abroad, your household goods can also enter duty-free under similar conditions to new residents. You will need to provide proof of your residence outside Switzerland for at least 12 months.

What you'll need

• All documents listed for new residents.
• Proof of residence in your origin country (e.g., employer letter, rental contract, utility bills) demonstrating you lived outside Switzerland for at least 12 months.

Good to know

• The imported goods must have been in your use and possession for at least 6 months prior to shipping.
• Import of household goods must occur within 24 months from your change of residence.

Diplomatic moves

Diplomatic personnel benefit from specific procedures for duty-free importation of their belongings.

What you'll need

• Application for free entry on form 14.60, submitted by your Embassy/Diplomatic Representation to the Customs Office.
• Copy of your Legitimation Card.

Good to know

• The application should be forwarded to the nearest customs office (e.g., Genève-La Praille or Bern).
• Original signatures are mandatory on all forms.
• Import of alcohol for diplomats is allowed but limited to an annual quota agreed upon by the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective embassies.

Moving after marriage (Wedding Trousseaux)

If you are importing items as part of a wedding trousseau, specific rules apply for duty-free entry.

What you'll need

• Original signed Customs form 18.45.
• Inventory of the goods.
• Marriage certificate.
• Residence permit for both partners (if non-Swiss citizens).

Good to know

• Duty-free entry is provided if the items will be used for at least another 12 months.
• The shipment must take place within 6 months of the civil marriage.
• If only used articles are imported, clearance can be done as "removal goods" using the standard documents for new residents.

Inherited belongings

Inherited household goods can be imported duty-free under specific conditions.

What you'll need

• Original signed Customs form 18.46.
• Inventory of the goods with a supporting legal declaration or will confirming the goods are rightfully yours.
• Certificate of death or equivalent document confirming the deceased's last residence.
• Passport copy of the inheritor.

Good to know

• Duty-free entry is provided if the inheritor has residence in Switzerland at the time of death and at the time of import.
• Only used household goods and effects can be imported duty-free as inheritance goods.

Bringing special items

Vehicles (cars, boats, planes, etc.)

Vehicles can be imported duty-free if they have been in your use and possession for at least six months prior to shipping. You will need additional documents for vehicles.

• Documents as required for "removal goods."
• Purchase contract/receipt.
• Original title or registration card.

Good to know

• The imported vehicle must have been in your use and possession for at least 6 months prior to shipping.
• Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for vehicle registration and use on Swiss roads.
• The vehicle cannot be used without a number plate (foreign or Swiss).
• Customs may request proof of the vehicle's first registration or official use.

Pets

Bringing pets to Switzerland involves specific health and identification requirements.

Dogs, Cats, and Ferrets

• 15-digit ISO Microchip.
• Identity card, Passport, or EU Veterinary certificate (if no pet ID card is available from the origin country).
• Rabies vaccination, effective 21 days after vaccination until the end of its validity period (as indicated by the vaccine manufacturer).
• Additionally, if coming from a country where urban rabies is known:
  • Blood test, required at least 30 days after rabies vaccination.
  • At least 4 months must elapse between the last rabies vaccination and entry into the country.
  • Import permit.

Good to know

• If relocating with a dog that has a docked tail or ears, Customs form 18.44 and supporting documents (as per household goods requirements) are necessary.

Birds

Specific requirements for birds apply. Please consult official Swiss veterinary resources for detailed information.

Restricted & prohibited items

Certain items have specific regulations or may be prohibited.

New furniture and household goods

New items are subject to duties and taxes.

• Purchase Invoice.
• Forms EUR 1 certificate of origin (where applicable, for duty-free entry from EEC/EFTA countries or reduced rates from others).

Good to know

• All new items are subject to duties and taxes. Duty is charged by weight.
• VAT is charged at 7.7%.
• Must be declared separately according to customs tariff headings.
• Individual weights on the invoice or packing list are helpful.

Art work

Artworks are generally duty-free if part of a removal.

• Inventory list showing the art work: Name, year of production, author/artist, value (if possible).

Good to know

• Duty-free without special documents if part of a removal.
• If not part of a removal, same as 'new' furniture, but duty and tax-free when imported by the artist himself.
• Information is required for statistical data.

Antiques

Antiques can be imported duty-free but are liable to VAT taxes.

• If not part of a removal: invoice with confirmation that they are over 100 years old.

Good to know

• Antiques can be imported duty-free but are liable to VAT taxes, similar to 'new' furniture.

Firearms

Firearms require exact descriptions and may need import permits.

• Exact description on inventory: make, model, calibre, etc.

Good to know

• Some firearms require an import permit from Federal Authorities in Bern, depending on the exact type.
• Firearms should be loaded to allow easy access for customs inspection.

Plants

Plants in reasonable quantities with a removal typically don't require special documents, but health certificates can be helpful.

Good to know

• If not together with a removal or in large quantities, a plant health certificate is necessary.

Fumigation of imported wooden materials

Switzerland adopted ISPM-15 standards for wood packaging in October 2010.

Good to know

• Wooden packing material must be marked in a visible location on each article, if possible on two opposite sides of the package, with an ISPM Seal.
• Wooden packing material imported from outside Europe and from Portugal is subject to heat treatment proof.

Alcohol & tobacco

Specific limits apply to alcohol and tobacco imports, with duty-free allowances and high taxes for quantities exceeding these limits.

Alcoholic beverages (up to 25% proof)

• To be declared on a separate inventory.

Good to know

• Duty-free if part of a removal and in a reasonable quantity appropriate to the amount of removal goods (max. 200 litres of wine).
• If bought especially for export and not in the owner's possession prior to the move, it is dutiable and may be subject to import quotas.
• Load to allow easy access for inspection.

Strong liquor (over 25% proof)

• Must be declared on a separate inventory.

Good to know

• Duty-free up to 12 litres.
• For additional quantities, very heavy duty and taxes are applied (over SFr. 50.- per bottle).

Frequently asked questions

Are copies of customs forms accepted?
No, original signed customs forms are mandatory; copies or PDFs are not accepted.

Is there a time limit for importing my household goods?
Yes, the import of your removal goods must take place within 24 months from your change of residence.

What if I have a second shipment of household goods?
Second or additional shipments must be announced upon the main import and must also take place within 24 months from your change of residence.

Do I need to translate my inventory list?
Yes, your inventory of goods must be translated into one of the official languages: French, German, Italian, or even English.

Can customs ask for additional documents?
Yes, customs authorities are permitted to request further, not listed documents during the import clearance (e.g., working contract, de-registration at origin residence, cost of the removal).

What is the VAT rate on new items?
VAT is charged at 7.7% on all new items.

For personalized assistance with your move to Switzerland, please contact relocation123.com. We're here to help make your relocation seamless.

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