🇨🇭 Planning your move to Basel? This guide delivers all the practical steps, updated costs, and clear advice specifically tailored for Basel, Switzerland’s vibrant cultural and economic hub lying at the intersection of Switzerland, Germany, and France.
What should I know about living in Basel at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇭
- City: Basel
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Average Salary: Around CHF 78,000/year, reflecting Basel’s diverse economy and industry sectors
- 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 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 Basel?
A 20ft container typically arrives within 1–3 weeks and costs between €1,700 and €3,200, while a 40ft container costs between €3,200 and €4,800 for the same delivery timeframe. Air freight for one cubic metre generally takes 4–6 days, costing €950 to €1,400. Customs processing fees range between CHF 180 and CHF 400.
| 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
Real-life case:
“I moved to Basel in May 2025 using a 20ft container for roughly 30 cubic meters of belongings. The shipping and customs fees totaled approximately €2,900, and delivery took about two weeks. Being well-prepared with paperwork helped avoid delays.” — Claudia B., 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. Create hyperlinks for each city name here.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings to Basel?
All personal belongings must be declared upon arrival using Swiss customs form 18.44. If you move your main residence to Basel, used household goods and personal effects are typically exempt from import duties. New or high-value items may incur VAT or other applicable taxes. Having complete invoices and accurate documentation facilitates smooth customs clearance.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Customs Administration, experts in customs and duty rules, last updated in July 2025.
Real-life case:
“I declared all my household items using the official customs form at customs in Basel. Most of my used belongings were admitted duty-free, but newly purchased electronics were taxed. The process was straightforward thanks to thorough documentation.” — Marco S., moved in April 2025.
What should my Basel pre-move checklist include?
- 12 weeks before: Start your visa or residence permit application (if required) and check your passport’s validity.
- 10 weeks before: Research and select international moving companies familiar with Basel.
- 8 weeks before: Gather school transcripts, medical documents, and vaccination records for family members and pets.
- 6 weeks before: Arrange temporary or permanent accommodation in Basel.
- 4 weeks before: Inform local authorities in your current country about your move.
- 2 weeks before: Set up health insurance, finalize travel arrangements, and arrange a Swiss bank account remotely if possible.
Reviewed by Expatica Editorial Team Switzerland, last updated in January 2025.
What is the cost of living in Basel?
Basel’s cost of living is among the higher range for Switzerland, including housing, groceries, transport, and utilities:
| Expense | Basel (CHF/mo) |
| Rent (1-bedroom city center) | 1,800–2,000 |
| Groceries | 400 |
| Public Transport | 85 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water) | 140 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025.
What do I need to know about Swiss visas and residency for Basel?
Most non-EU/EFTA nationals need a visa and residence permit to stay longer than three months. Basel applies the Swiss Permit B system for long-term workers; family reunification and student permits are also available. Key requirements include proof of employment or income, housing, and health insurance. To apply for Swiss citizenship, 10 years of legal residency is generally required.
Reviewed by Swiss State Secretariat for Migration, last updated in June 2025.
How can I bring pets with me to Basel?
Pets must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, with a valid EU or Swiss pet passport. Dogs must be registered with Basel local authorities within 10 days of arrival. Additional health protocols may apply depending on the country of origin.
Reviewed by Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), last updated in June 2025.
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence in Basel?
Imported vehicles must be declared at customs. Import taxes and VAT apply unless the vehicle was owned for over six months before import and documentation is provided. Most EU/EEA driving licences can be exchanged for Swiss equivalents in Basel within 12 months without re-testing.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Roads Office, last updated in July 2025.
How do I open a bank account and get an AHV number in Basel?
A Swiss bank account requires photo ID and proof of Basel residence. Many banks allow remote account setup beforehand. The AHV (social security) number is automatically issued when you register your residence with the local Basel commune.
Reviewed by Swiss Bankers Association and Swiss Federal Social Insurance Office, last updated in July 2025.
What should I expect from the Basel healthcare and insurance system?
Basic health insurance (“LaMal”/“KVG”) is compulsory and must be arranged within three months of arrival. It covers essential treatments, while many residents take supplementary private insurance for faster access or enhanced coverage.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Office of Public Health, last updated in June 2025.
What is the housing market like for newcomers in Basel?
Rental housing in Basel is competitive, with landlords typically requiring a deposit of one to two months’ rent and proof of income or employment. Property purchases face additional restrictions for non-residents. Popular neighborhoods for expats include Gundeldingen, St. Alban, Matthäus, and Clara.
Reviewed by Homegate Research and Swiss Real Estate Data Team, last updated in March 2025.
Do I pay taxes and contribute to pensions in Basel?
Basel residents pay income tax on worldwide income; rates vary by canton. Social security contributions fund pensions (AHV), disability, and unemployment benefits. For personalised tax advice or double taxation prevention, professional consultation is recommended.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Tax Administration and Swiss Social Security Office, last updated in April 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For detailed moving plans, use the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive relocation guides for Basel, Switzerland, and other popular destinations on the ReloAdvisor website.
