🇨🇭 Planning your move to Zurich? This guide provides you with the most practical and current information, including costs, residence requirements, living tips, and insider advice—all focused exclusively on Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich.
What should I know about living in Zurich at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇭
- City: Zurich
- Population: About 450,000
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Average Salary: Around CHF 85,000/year, reflecting Zurich’s status as a financial and tech hub
- 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 Zurich?
Door-to-door shipping costs to Zurich are similar to the wider Swiss range:
| 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 relocated to Zurich in June 2025 using a 40ft container for about 38 cubic meters of goods. The total shipping and customs cost came to around €4,500, and the items arrived in under three weeks. Preparation of documents made customs smooth.” — Lukas M., moved in June 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 Zurich?
When moving to Zurich, personal effects must be declared on arrival with customs form 18.44. Used household goods for your main residence are generally duty-free. New or restricted items may be subject to Swiss VAT or import taxes. Having clear receipts and documentation helps ensure hassle-free 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 when arriving in Zurich. My used goods cleared duty-free, but there was VAT on my recently bought new furniture. The well-organized paperwork was key to a smooth process.” — Anna S., moved in April 2025.
What should my Zurich pre-move checklist include?
- 12 weeks before: Start your Swiss visa or permit process (if needed) and verify your passport expiry date.
- 10 weeks before: Research and book moving companies with Zurich experience.
- 8 weeks before: Collect school transcripts and vaccination records; prepare health insurance options.
- 6 weeks before: Arrange temporary or permanent accommodation in Zurich.
- 4 weeks before: Notify your current home country authorities of departure.
- 2 weeks before: Finalize health insurance, confirm travel plans, and open 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 Zurich?
Monthly expenses in Zurich are known to be high but reflect the city’s exceptional quality of life:
| Expense | Zurich (CHF/mo) |
| Rent (1-bedroom city center) | 2,000 |
| Groceries | 450 |
| Public Transport | 90 |
| 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 Zurich?
Most non-EU/EFTA nationals require a visa to enter Switzerland and a resident permit to live long-term. Zurich mainly issues Permit B for workers, renewable annually, with specific permits for family and students. You must provide proof of employment/income, housing, and health insurance. Ten years’ residence is generally required to apply for Swiss citizenship.
Reviewed by Swiss State Secretariat for Migration, last updated in June 2025.
How can I bring pets to Zurich?
Pets entering Zurich must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, with a valid EU or Swiss pet passport. Dogs must be registered with local authorities within 10 days of arrival. Additional health checks may be necessary based on the country of origin.
Reviewed by Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), last updated in June 2025.
What is required to import a car or exchange a driving licence in Zurich?
Imported vehicles must be declared to Swiss customs; import duties and VAT may apply unless you prove ownership over six months prior. Most EU/EEA driving licences can be exchanged for a Swiss licence 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 Zurich?
Opening a bank account requires photo ID and proof of Zurich residence. Many banks offer remote setup services prior to arrival. The AHV (social security) number is assigned automatically when you register your residence with the Zurich commune.
Reviewed by Swiss Bankers Association and Swiss Federal Social Insurance Office, last updated in July 2025.
What should I expect from the Zurich healthcare and insurance system?
Health insurance is mandatory; basic coverage (“LaMal”/”KVG”) must be arranged within three months of arrival. It includes essential medical treatments. Private supplementary insurance is common for faster specialist access and private hospital care.
Reviewed by Swiss Federal Office of Public Health, last updated in June 2025.
What is the housing market like for newcomers in Zurich?
Housing demand is high and competition is intense. Rental deposits equal to one to two months’ rent are typical. Proof of steady income or employment is required. Popular neighborhoods for expats include Seefeld, Enge, Zurich West, and the University Quarter.
Reviewed by Homegate Research and Swiss Real Estate Data Team, last updated in March 2025.
Do I pay taxes and contribute to pensions in Zurich?
Zurich residents pay income tax on their worldwide earnings, with cantonal rates applying. Social security contributions fund pensions (AHV), disability, and unemployment. Consulting a tax adviser is recommended for avoiding double taxation and retirement planning.
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 to Zurich?
For detailed planning, use the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive relocation guides for Zurich, Switzerland, and other popular destinations on the ReloAdvisor website.
