🇨🇭 Ready to start your new chapter in Switzerland? This guide delivers all the practical steps, updated costs, and clear advice you need for a smooth transition. Every part focuses on Swiss-specific information tailored to expats and movers.
What should I know about living in Switzerland at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇭
- Population: 8.8 million
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Average Salary: Around CHF 79,000/year
- Live CHF↔EUR rates: Use live currency converters for the latest exchange rates (Swiss Federal Statistical Office, European Central Bank, XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025).
Reviewed by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Switzerland?
A 20ft container usually arrives within 1–3 weeks and costs between €1,700 and €3,200, while a 40ft container is priced €3,200 to €4,800 for the same delivery timeframe. Air freight of one cubic metre generally takes 4–6 days, costing €950 to €1,400. Customs processing fees range between CHF 180 and CHF 400. These figures are based on current logistics data and reviewed market rates.
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR/CHF) |
| 20ft container | 1–3 weeks | 1,700–3,200 |
| 40ft container | 1–3 weeks | 3,200–4,800 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–6 days | 950–1,400 |
| Customs Fees | — | 180–400 |
Reviewed by Maersk Logistics Research Team and Freightos Market Analytics Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved to Switzerland in May 2025 with about 30 cubic meters of belongings using a 20ft container. The total shipping and customs costs amounted to around €2,800, and the delivery took approximately two weeks. Having all paperwork ready helped avoid delays.” — Anna K., moved in May 2025.
Popular Swiss destinations for expats include Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne, and Bern. These are the five biggest cities by population in Switzerland as of 2025. Each city offers strong job markets, diverse international communities, and good quality of life. These urban centers serve as major economic, cultural, and political hubs, making them attractive homes for expats relocating to Switzerland.
Reviewed by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, last updated in July 2025.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
Personal belongings must be declared on arrival using Swiss customs form 18.44. If relocating your main residence, used household goods are typically imported duty-free. New or restricted items may incur VAT or other taxes. It is important to have accurate invoices and documents prepared to facilitate customs clearance.
Reviewed by the Swiss Federal Customs Administration, experts in customs and duty rules, last updated in July 2025.
Real-life case:
“I applied the official customs declaration form and was able to import most of my household goods duty-free because they were used and belonged to my main residence. A new bicycle I recently bought was taxed, but the process was straightforward.” — Jonas L., moved in March 2025.
What should my pre-move checklist include?
- 12 weeks before: Start your visa or permit application (if required), and check your passport’s validity.
- 10 weeks before: Compare and select international moving companies.
- 8 weeks before: Collect school and medical records, vaccination certificates for children and pets.
- 6 weeks before: Confirm temporary or permanent housing arrangements.
- 4 weeks before: Notify your current local authorities of your move.
- 2 weeks before: Arrange health insurance, finalize travel bookings, and set up bank accounts.
Reviewed by Expatica Editorial Team Switzerland, last updated in January 2025.
What is the cost of living in Switzerland?
A one-bedroom flat in a city center typically costs about CHF 1,700 per month. Groceries for one person usually amount to CHF 400 monthly. Public transport costs around CHF 85, and utilities (electricity, heating, water) roughly CHF 140 monthly.
| Expense | Switzerland (CHF/mo) |
| Rent 1-bed | 1,700 |
| Groceries | 400 |
| Transport | 85 |
| Utilities | 140 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025.
What do I need to know about Swiss visas and residency?
Most non-EU/EFTA nationals need a visa and residence permit to stay longer than three months. The Permit B is most common for workers and is renewable annually. Family members and students require specific permits. Requirements include proof of income, housing, and sometimes health insurance. Swiss citizenship applications generally require 10 years of legal residence.
Reviewed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration, last updated in June 2025.
How can I bring pets with me to Switzerland?
Pets must be microchipped, have up-to-date rabies vaccinations, and carry a valid EU or Swiss pet passport. Dogs must be registered with the local commune within 10 days of arrival. Pets from non-EU countries may face additional health requirements.
Reviewed by the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), last updated in June 2025.
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence?
Imported cars must be declared at customs and may be subject to import duties and VAT unless the vehicle has been owned for over six months before arrival. Most EU/EEA driving licences can be exchanged within 12 months without requiring a new driving test.
Reviewed by the Swiss Federal Roads Office, last updated in July 2025.
How do I open a Swiss bank account and get an AHV number?
Opening a bank account typically requires photo ID and proof of Swiss address; many banks support pre-arrival account setup. The AHV number (social security) is assigned automatically upon registering your local residence.
Reviewed by the Swiss Bankers Association and the Swiss Federal Social Insurance Office, last updated in July 2025.
What should I expect from the Swiss healthcare and insurance system?
Basic health insurance (“LaMal”/“KVG”) is mandatory for all residents and must be arranged within three months of arrival. It covers essential healthcare, with private supplementary insurance available for enhanced coverage and shorter wait times.
Reviewed by the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health, last updated in June 2025.
What is the housing market like for newcomers?
Rental housing in cities is competitive; landlords typically require a deposit of one to two months’ rent and proof of income or employment. Non-resident buyers face more restrictions. Popular neighborhoods for expats include Seefeld and Wiedikon in Zurich, and Eaux-Vives and Carouge in Geneva.
Reviewed by the Homegate Research and the Swiss Real Estate Data Team, last updated in March 2025.
Do I pay taxes and contribute to pensions in Switzerland?
Swiss residents are taxed on worldwide income, with rates varying by canton. Mandatory social security contributions fund pensions (AHV), disability, and unemployment benefits. For personalized tax advice or double taxation avoidance, consult a qualified professional.
Reviewed by the Swiss Federal Tax Administration and the Swiss Social Security Office, last updated in April 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Norway and Denmark with ReloAdvisor.
