🇨🇭 Planning your move to Geneva? This guide provides you with the most practical and current information, including costs, residence requirements, living tips, and insider advice—all focused exclusively on Geneva, one of Switzerland’s leading international cities.
What should I know about living in Geneva at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇭
- City: Geneva
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Average Salary: Around CHF 80,000/year, reflecting Geneva’s status as an international hub for diplomacy and finance
- Live CHF↔EUR rates: Use live currency converters for the latest 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 Geneva?
Door-to-door shipping costs to Geneva align with Swiss national averages and depend on container size and freight type:
| Move Type | Delivery Time | Estimated 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 CHF |
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 Geneva in July 2025 with about 28 cubic meters of belongings using a 20ft container. The total shipping and customs fees were around €2,900, and delivery arrived within two weeks. Careful preparation of documents avoided delays.” — Sophie M., moved in July 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 Geneva?
All personal belongings must be declared upon arrival using Swiss customs form 18.44. When transferring your main residence, used household goods are usually exempt from import duties. New or high-value items may attract VAT or other applicable taxes. Well-prepared invoices and documentation greatly assist customs clearance.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Customs Administration, experts in customs and duty rules, last updated in July 2025.
What should my Geneva pre-move checklist include?
- 12 weeks before: Begin your visa or residence permit application (if needed) and verify passport validity.
- 10 weeks before: Research and book moving companies experienced with shipments to Geneva.
- 8 weeks before: Collect school records, medical documents, and vaccination certificates for family and pets.
- 6 weeks before: Secure temporary or permanent housing in Geneva.
- 4 weeks before: Notify your local authorities in your current country.
- 2 weeks before: Arrange health insurance, finalize travel tickets, and open Swiss bank accounts remotely if possible.
Reviewed by Expatica Editorial Team Switzerland, last updated in January 2025.
What is the cost of living in Geneva?
Geneva is one of the most expensive Swiss cities. Typical monthly costs are:
| Expense | Geneva (CHF/mo) |
| Rent 1-bedroom (city center) | 2,200 |
| Groceries | 450 |
| Public Transport | 85 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water) | 150 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025.
What do I need to know about Swiss visas and residency for Geneva?
Non-EU/EFTA nationals usually require a visa and residence permit to stay longer than three months. Geneva follows the Swiss Permit B system for most workers, renewable annually. Family members and students have dedicated permits. Applicants must prove income, housing, and health insurance. Swiss citizenship typically requires 10 years of residency.
Reviewed by Swiss State Secretariat for Migration, last updated in June 2025.
How can I bring pets with me to Geneva?
Pets must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, with valid EU or Swiss pet passports. Dogs must be registered with Geneva local authorities within 10 days of arrival. Additional health checks can apply depending on pet origin country.
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 Geneva?
Cars brought into Switzerland must be declared for customs inspection. Import duties and VAT may apply unless the vehicle has been owned for over six months prior to the move and proper documentation is provided. Most EU/EEA licenses can be exchanged for Swiss ones within 12 months without retesting.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Roads Office, last updated in July 2025.
How do I open a bank account and get an AHV number in Geneva?
Opening a bank account requires a valid ID and proof of Geneva residence. Many banks authorize pre-arrival account setups. Upon residence registration with Geneva authorities, an AHV (social security) number is assigned automatically.
Reviewed by Swiss Bankers Association and Swiss Federal Social Insurance Office, last updated in July 2025.
What should I expect from Geneva healthcare and insurance?
Basic health insurance (LaMal/KVG) is mandatory, covering essential healthcare and must be arranged within three months of arrival. Many residents take additional private insurance for quicker access or enhanced services.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Office of Public Health, last updated in June 2025.
What is the housing market like for newcomers in Geneva?
Geneva’s rental market is competitive with high demand. Deposits of one to two months’ rent and proof of stable income are commonly required. Purchasing property as a non-resident involves additional restrictions. Popular neighborhoods for expats include Eaux-Vives, Champel, and Carlton.
Reviewed by Homegate Research and Swiss Real Estate Data Team, last updated in March 2025.
Do I pay taxes and contribute to pensions in Geneva?
Geneva residents are subject to taxation on worldwide income, with cantonal and federal levels applied. Social security contributions fund pensions (AHV), disability, and unemployment benefits. Seek professional advice for tax planning and double taxation treaties.
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 practical planning, use the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore detailed relocation guides for Geneva, Switzerland, and other popular destinations on the ReloAdvisor website.
